Positioning and distributing layers in Adobe After Effects compositions can be done using various tools and techniques. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do this:

Positioning Layers:

1. Select Layers:

   • In the timeline, select the layers you want to position. You can click and drag to select multiple layers, or hold down the Ctrl/Cmd key while clicking on individual layers.

2. Transform Properties:

   • Use the Transform properties to adjust the position. You can find these properties in the Effect Controls panel or by pressing “P” to reveal the Position property in the timeline.

3. Manually Move Layers:

   • Click and drag the layers in the Composition panel using the Selection tool (V). This is a quick way to reposition layers.

4. Snapping:

   • Enable snapping by clicking on the magnet icon at the top of the Composition panel. This helps in aligning layers precisely.

5. Numeric Input:

   • For precise positioning, you can manually enter values for the Position property in the timeline or Effect Controls panel.

Distributing Layers:

1. Align Panel:

   • After selecting multiple layers, go to the “Window” menu and choose “Align.” This opens the Align panel.

2. Distribute Horizontally/Vertically:

   • In the Align panel, choose whether you want to distribute layers horizontally or vertically. Click on the corresponding distribute icon.

3. Distribute Spacing:

   • If you want to distribute layers with equal spacing between them, select the layers and use the “Distribute Spacing” options in the Align panel.

4. Grid and Guides:

   • Use the Grid and Guides feature to help align and distribute layers. You can enable the grid by clicking on the “Show Grid” icon at the bottom of the Composition panel.

5. Snap to Guides:

   • Create guides by dragging from the rulers on the top and left sides of the Composition panel. Layers can snap to these guides for precise alignment.

6. Expression Controls:

   • You can use expressions to automate the distribution process. For example, you can use the “Distribute Layers” script or create your own expression for distributing layers based on their positions.

Additional Tips:

• Parenting:

  • Consider using parenting to link layers together. When you move the parent layer, the child layers move with it. Right-click on a layer and choose “Parent” to set up parenting.

• Null Objects:

  • Create a null object and parent layers to it for a central control point. This makes it easy to move, rotate, or scale multiple layers simultaneously.

• Animation Presets:

  • Save time by creating animation presets for common layer arrangements or distributions that you use frequently.

Remember to experiment and combine these techniques based on your specific needs and the complexity of your composition. The key is to use a combination of manual adjustments, alignment tools, and, if needed, expressions to achieve the desired positioning and distribution of layers in your After Effects compositions.