What It Does
Blending Modes gives you one-click access to the most-used blending modes in After Effects. Select your layers, click a mode, and it applies instantly. No more opening dropdowns or clicking through submenus. Built for projects where you’re layering textures, adding light effects, or compositing multiple elements and need to test modes quickly.
The script works through the Spotlight FX plugin. Once installed, you’ll find it in the Toolbox panel (Window > Extensions > Spotlight FX > Toolbox). All your scripts appear in one docked panel that you can reorganize however you want.
Key Features
Instant blending mode changes. Click to apply Add, Screen, Multiply, Overlay, or any other standard mode directly to selected layers. No dropdown, no hunting.
Cloud-based script system. Unlike traditional scripts that require manual file placement and restarts, this syncs through Spotlight FX. Updates happen automatically. Your organization preferences sync across computers.
Dockable Toolbox. Pin frequently-used scripts to the top, reorder the list, and dock the entire Toolbox anywhere in your After Effects workspace. Your setup stays consistent between sessions.
Bundled with other scripts. When you install Spotlight FX (free), you also get Anchor Point Mover, Renamer, Looper, Keyframe Easing, Keyframe Copy, and more. All accessible from the same panel.
Who It’s For
Useful for motion designers working on music videos, compositing-heavy projects, or any animation where you’re layering multiple elements and testing different blend interactions. If you’re building texture-heavy animations or lighting effects, switching modes this way is faster than the built-in workflow.
Works well in combination with other Spotlight FX scripts. For example, use Keyframe Easing to smooth your animation timing, then switch blend modes here to finalize the look, all without leaving the Toolbox.
Pricing
Free. No trial period, no credit card, no restrictions. Download the Spotlight FX plugin (also free), and you get access to this script plus the full collection of free workflow tools and 40+ free templates. Commercial use allowed.
Spotlight FX offers a paid Pro tier with 3,000+ additional assets, but the scripts in the Toolbox, including Blending Modes, are available with the free version.
