Quick answer
Keyframes store a device or scene value at a specific time. The editor calculates the movement between those poses, allowing you to create an entrance, hold, feature focus, and exit without animating every frame manually.
When this workflow is useful
Custom keyframes are most useful when a preset does not match the product story. They let you keep a dense dashboard front-facing, coordinate several devices, open a laptop lid at a precise moment, or move the camera toward the screen that matters.
Explore the 3D device mockup video generator for a focused creation workflow and a clear comparison of Free and Pro capabilities.
Step-by-step workflow
- Set the duration. Choose a timeline length that fits the destination and the amount of information viewers must read.
- Create the opening pose. Place the device just outside the final composition or at a restrained angle. Add the first position, rotation, and scale keyframe.
- Add the product pose. Move to the moment where the interface should be understood. Create a stable, readable pose and hold it long enough for the screen media.
- Choose transition curves. Use ease-in-out for most camera and device motion, hold for intentional cuts, and stronger curves only when the brand style calls for them.
- Add supporting animation last. Keyframe camera, background, blur, glare, or text only after the device motion communicates the story on its own.
Decisions that improve the result
Fewer keyframes
Two or three deliberate poses are usually clearer than constant movement. Add a keyframe only when the composition or message changes.
Rotation
Large rotations work during transitions; small rotations preserve screen legibility. Preview the back of a device only when hardware detail is relevant.
Layer order
Animate groups for coordinated motion and individual layers for emphasis. Avoid duplicating the same movement at both levels.
Production checklist
- Defined duration
- Opening pose
- Readable product pose
- Intentional transition curve
- No conflicting group motion
- Full timeline preview
Frequently asked questions
What can be keyframed?
Pro supports device and group transforms, camera properties, backgrounds, text, image layers, glare and lighting, blur, and laptop-lid values where supported.
Which transition should beginners use?
Start with ease-in-out because it accelerates and settles smoothly. Change curves only after the timing feels correct.
Do I need After Effects?
No. The browser timeline handles the 3D scene and keyframe interpolation; a separate editor is optional for additional post-production.