What is Keyframe?

A keyframe defines an animation property value at a specific point in time. Learn how keyframes create motion, fades, and effects in video editing.

  • Video Editing
  • 4 related terms
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Definition

A keyframe is a defined point in a video timeline that specifies the value of an animation parameter (position, scale, opacity, color) at that moment, with the software interpolating values between keyframes.

Keyframe explained

Keyframing is the fundamental mechanism of animation in video editing. A creator sets the starting value of a property (e.g., opacity = 0) at one keyframe and the ending value (opacity = 100) at another keyframe, and the editing software calculates all the intermediate values to create smooth motion. This technique is used for title animations, zoom effects, fade transitions, motion paths, audio volume automation, and color grade changes over time. Easing functions (linear, ease-in, ease-out, bezier) control the rate of change between keyframes, producing natural-looking acceleration and deceleration rather than mechanical constant-rate changes. Complex animations in motion graphics use dozens of keyframes across multiple parameters simultaneously.

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