Uploaded February 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago

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Discover a game-changing time-saving tip in After Effects that will speed up your timeline previews! In this video, Cameron from Motion Science breaks down how to use proxies to dramatically reduce render times for complex compositions. Learn how to identify lagging layers with the “Render Time” column and replace heavy pre-comps with lightweight proxy renders for faster workflows.

This quick tutorial is perfect for motion designers looking to optimize their After Effects projects, especially when working with 3D layers, cameras, and heavy pre-comps.

🎥 Key Takeaways:
• How to enable and use the “Render Time” column in After Effects
• Identifying layers that slow down your renders
• Creating proxies (still or movie) to speed up previews
• Switching between proxies and original pre-comps seamlessly

🔗 Resources Mentioned:
• Journey to Motion Mastery Course (motionscience.tv/mastery)

Join the Motion Science Membership to unlock exclusive training, expert mentorship, and more tips like this to elevate your motion design skills!

00:00 – Intro: Save Time in After Effects
00:32 – Enabling the “Render Time” Column
01:02 – Understanding Render Times & Performance Issues
01:33 – Identifying Lagging Layers in Your Timeline
02:05 – Creating a Proxy Movie for Faster Previews
02:37 – Activating and Using Proxies in Your Timeline
03:13 – Turning Off Proxies Before Final Renders
03:37 – Closing Tips & Next Steps