How can I apply a timestretch to different null objects and then use them to parent layers?

Question

I am using several hundred stills which are held on screen for different lengths of time. Is there a way to create null objects with various timestretch values and then use them to parent my stills?
I'm trying to find an equivalent to the 'paste attributes' function in Final Cut Pro.
Thanks in advance
A

Answer 1

If you have movement on the stills you can set up expressions based on in and out points. That's what I do. I then drop all my stills in order into a comp then set the out point for all stills for the longest duration. I then set group colors for layers that I want to make different lengths, do a group select and then adjust the out points for those layers. When I'm done I sequence the layers using the keyframe assistant.
The other way I work is to use an audio track with markers for timing. I have an expression that reads the markers and sets opacity for the layers based on pairs of markers. The motion is also controlled by expressions. That's an even faster way to set up an animated slide show.
The last way I work is just to set in an out points for all layers, sequence the layers, use expressions to do the motion and then use time remapping on a pre-comp to adjust the timing of the slide show. All methods are quick and easy.
Here's a fly in bounce and then drop out fxx preset that will give you an idea of how expressions based on in and out point work for slide shows. You just drag the layer to it's resting position, apply the animatiokn preset and the layer flys in, bounces, and then drops out the bottom of the comp. Works in 2D and 3D space.