Precompositions

A precomposition/nested composition packages a set of layered work into a reusable composition resource. Use it to manage complex titles, repeated graphics, grouped transforms, or sections that need their own timing/effect structure.

When to precompose

Precompose when the group has a clear creative identity or should be reused. Do not precompose merely to hide a graph/layer stack you no longer understand.

Workflow

1. Decide which layers belong together and what should remain controlled by the parent composition.
2. Create or use a nested composition for that group.
3. Name the nested resource by purpose—such as LowerThird_NamePlate or Shot042_Hologram.
4. Edit the inner composition when you need to change its layers/animation.
5. Return to the parent and verify timing, transforms, effects and blend/3D relationships in context.

Timing and reuse

The nested composition has its own authored duration/timing while the parent controls when and how that resource appears. If you reuse one nested composition in several places, remember that editing its internal content can intentionally update every use of that resource.

Verify

Open the inner comp, parent comp and any Edit-timeline use after a save/reopen. Render a short section containing the nested composition and check first/last frames, transparency and motion boundaries.