One of the most powerful and interesting things you can do in Adobe After Effects is use 3D Elements. These elements include 3d text, 3d shapes, flat 2d layes treated as 3d layers, 3d lights, and proper 3d models.

In this tutorial, I will show you the basics of how to use each of these elements in an After Effects composition and teach you the simple tools you can use to improve the way you edit 3d elements in After Effects.

Other programs may be better for your 3d designs than After Effects, but where it shines is creating videos that have 3d depth and combining them with additional effects.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I set up a 3d composition?

Create a new composition with your desired dimensions, frame rate, resolution, and duration, but before you click OK, navigate to the 3d Renderer tab and select the 3d renderer you wish to use (generally stick with Cinema 4D, or Advanced 3D if you are planning to use 3D models)

How do I make a 2d layer 3d in After Effects?

You can make any layer 3d by simply clicking the 3d switch in the composition window (bottom right). By default, the 3d switch is hidden, so right-click the small row in the composition window and navigate to Columns > Switches and ensure that it is turned on. This will give any 2d layer 3d postitioning and rotation controls and allow it to be affected by 3d light

How can I create a 3d light in After Effects?

To create a 3d light, right-click in your composition window and select New > Light. This will allow you to create a light with a few options such as intensity, color, and the type of light. Once you create the light, you can position and keyframe it to your choice.

You can also create lights with the complex hotkey:
Mac: Cmd + Opt + Shift + L
Win: Ctrl + Alt + Shift + L

Only 3d layers are affected by lights, 2d layers will have their full color.

How do I create a 3d shape/text Layer?

First, create your first 3d shape or text layer. Once you are happy with the text/shape, then click the 3d switch to turn it 3d. Both of these 3d layers are unique in that they can be given extrusion depth.

How do I create a 3d camera in After Effects?

Right-click in your composition window and navigate to New > Camera. You can adjust the specific camera settings, but the defaults do work well.

What can I do with a 3d camera?

You can do some very wild and incredible things with a 3d camera in After Effects; you can keyframe a movement/point of interest route for your camera to take, and you can basically develop some normally impossible shots in AE. Also, you can give the illusion of depth by looking at a 2d layer from diffrent angles and positions

How do I import 3D models into After Effects?

Import them into your After Effects project like any other media file! When you bring them into your composition, you can change some of their settings, but the defaults work well.

What types of 3d models can I use in After Effects?

You can use GLB, GLTF, OBJ, and FBX files.

Can I paint 3d models in After Effects?

No, you cannot paint 3d models in AE. Paint them before importing them. You can still light them in After Effects, though, for additional depth.