Sep 17

Written by: Doug Reece
9/17/2008

The Pan / Zoom motion background has been a feature of SSP for quite some time now. However, it was limited in its capabilities and use. For one, it was only available as a motion background (or a fill) which means it could not be used on image and video objects. Another limitation was that it provided only one path of motion at a time before it stops. Some users wanted the option for pan / zoom to work continuously.

The old Pan / Zoom motion background is still available, but a new feature has been added to the July 2008 Edition that is its predecessor: The Pan / Zoom effect provided in the Cinematic Effects Collection. As an effect, it can be applied to anything, it is available to more than just motion backgrounds. As with the old plug-in, you can set up simple paths that run in a single direction. However, you now have the option to let the effect loop, or to zoom out at the end of the path. Additionally, you also have the option for Multiple Paths. This lets you get very specific about where the paths start and stop, what their zoom level is, and the timing for each path. There is also an Auto option which you can use if you simply want the pan / zoom effect applied but are not concerned about the specifics.

Below is a screen shot of the properties page for the new Pan / Zoom effect:

The Photo Slides builders have been enhanced so that they now include an option for you to specify auto Pan / Zoom. This makes it easy for you to add this effect to your photo slide shows.

 

Here is an example of a slide show build using the Photo Slides with Captions builder and the auto Pan / Zoom option.

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