Fading hero views’ children in shared element transition

Fading Hero Views in Shared Element Transitions

Shared element transitions provide a seamless and visually appealing way to navigate between screens in a mobile application. One popular technique is to use a fading hero view, where an image or text element fades in and out as the user transitions between screens. This article explores the implementation and benefits of fading hero views in shared element transitions.

What are Shared Element Transitions?

Shared element transitions are a visual effect that creates a smooth and engaging user experience by connecting two screens through a shared element. The element appears to transition between its positions on both screens, providing a sense of continuity and enhancing the overall flow of the application.

Why Use a Fading Hero View?

Fading hero views can significantly enhance the user experience in shared element transitions. Here are some key benefits:

Enhanced Visual Flow

• The gradual fade-in and fade-out animation creates a smooth visual flow between screens, eliminating abrupt jumps and enhancing the user’s perception of continuity.

Improved User Engagement

• The subtle animation draws attention to the transitioning element and encourages users to follow the transition, enhancing their engagement with the application.

Emphasis on Key Content

• Using a fading hero view effectively highlights the central element in the transition, directing user attention to the key information being presented.

Implementing Fading Hero Views

Here’s a step-by-step guide to implementing fading hero views in shared element transitions:

1. Identify the Shared Element

Choose the element that you want to transition between the two screens. This could be an image, a text block, or any other visual element.

2. Assign Unique Transition Names

Give the shared element a unique transition name on both screens. This ensures that the system correctly identifies the element to be transitioned.

3. Define the Transition Animation

Use the `transition` property in CSS to define the fade-in and fade-out animation. For example:

.hero-view {
  transition: opacity 0.5s ease-in-out;
}

4. Trigger the Transition

Use the `transitionName` property to specify the transition name in JavaScript, triggering the animation when transitioning between screens.

Example Code

// HTML

  



  


// CSS
.hero-view {
  transition: opacity 0.5s ease-in-out;
}

// JavaScript
const transition = document.querySelector('.hero-view');
transition.style.opacity = 0; // Fade out initial element

// ... transition logic ...

transition.style.opacity = 1; // Fade in target element

Benefits of Fading Hero Views

Conclusion

Fading hero views are a powerful technique for creating engaging and seamless shared element transitions. By adding a touch of visual animation, developers can enhance the user experience, improve engagement, and effectively highlight key content. Whether you’re building a mobile application or web platform, consider incorporating fading hero views into your shared element transition designs for a more enjoyable and effective user interface.