Layers and hierarchy

A flat array, a tree in meaning

The layers array is flat so it is easy to patch, diff and stream. Parent-child relationships are expressed with parentLayerId. Only a group may be a parent, layer ids are globally unique, and higher sibling order paints later.

{
  "layers": [
    {
      "id": "hero-group",
      "parentLayerId": null,
      "order": 0,
      "type": "group",
      "frame": { "width": 1080, "height": 1920 },
      "transform": { "...": " },
      "timing": { "start": 0, "duration": 4000 },
      "payload": { "children": ["title", "badge"] }
    },
    {
      "id": "title",
      "parentLayerId": "hero-group",
      "order": 1,
      "type": "text",
      "frame": { "width": 720, "height": 120 },
      "timing": { "start": 0, "duration": 2400 }
    }
  ]
}

Shared layer contract

Every layer carries id, parentLayerId, order, frame, transform, timing, type and a type-specific payload. Optional fields such as opacity, visibility, clipPath, mask, filter, motion, composite, tracks and effects remain explicit rather than hidden in renderer state.

Certified layer types