The Problem:You see "Color Bars" instead of your sequence of images

The Fix (3 Steps):

1. Find it: In the Project Panel, find the missing file (search "missing" to filter).
2. Relink it: Double-click the missing entry (or Right-Click > Replace Footage > File).
3. Select it: Navigate to the file's current location in your drive and click Open.
   • Note: After Effects will usually detect other missing files in that same folder and fix them automatically.

Why does this happen?After Effects links to files; it doesn't store them inside the project. The link breaks if you:

• Renamed the file or any folder it is inside.
• Moved the file to a different folder.
• Unplugged the hard drive where the file lives.

The Problem: You try to import a file or open a project, but After Effects blocks you with an error saying the file exists but "couldn't be open for reading."

The Fix:After Effects is being blocked from accessing the file. You need to unlock the permissions.

• Method 1 (Easiest): Move your entire project folder and assets to a "safe" location, like your Desktop or Documents folder.
• Method 2 (Change Permissions):
  • On Mac: Right-click the folder containing the files > Get Info. Scroll down to Sharing & Permissions and ensure your user account is set to Read & Write.
  • On Windows: Right-click the folder > Properties. Uncheck the Read-only box and hit Apply.

Why does this happen? The folder containing your files is set to "Read Only." After Effects often requires "Write" access to create temporary cache files or lock files when reading footage. If the operating system says "Do Not Touch," After Effects simply gives up.

Yes, you can use the images & mp4s for personal and commercial projects

No, you cannot replicate, sell, share any of the assets & fonts you download

Due to the digital nature of our products, all sales are final. Once the product has been downloaded, no refunds or exchanges will be issued.