What It Does

Dynamic TextBox creates background boxes behind text layers in After Effects that automatically adjust their size to match the text dimensions. Apply it once to a text layer, and it continues working whenever you update the text content. This is particularly useful when building templates where end users will change text without needing to manually resize backgrounds.

Key Features

Solid background option. Uses a simple solid layer with a color picker. This is the lightweight “analog” approach that works well for most title backgrounds.

Shape option. Places control points at the top-left and bottom-right corners of the textbox, allowing you to use shape layers as backgrounds. This “digital” option provides more flexibility for custom designs.

Margin controls. Adjusts spacing around the text to control how close or far the background sits from the letters.

One-time setup. Run the script once per text layer. After that, the box updates automatically when you change the text, with fast performance.

Known Limitations

Due to After Effects limitations, this script does not support text animators. The shape option has issues with paragraph text. Shape boxes may not update properly in the composition window preview, though they render correctly.

Who It’s For

Template creators building lower thirds, titles, or any motion graphics where clients will edit text. Also useful for anyone who frequently creates text with background boxes and wants to eliminate the manual resizing step.

Pricing

Pay what you want (suggested minimum $15). Individual users can pay any amount they choose. Businesses and teams must pay the suggested price to receive a valid license.