After Effects: Working with 3D Models
1h 11mIntermediate2025-01-06
Authors
Eran Stern
Teacher and Motion Designer, 20+ years of post-production experience
Course details
In this course, instructor Eran Stern provides a comprehensive guide to working with 3D elements in After Effects, from activating the 3D design space to advanced rendering techniques. Explore importing 3D models, animating cameras, integrating lighting and shadows, and refining material properties, while mastering tools like Cinema 4D and advanced 3D renderers to create dynamic, visually engaging projects.
Skills covered
Visual EffectsCINEMA 4DMAXONMotion GraphicsAfter EffectsRenderingMotion Graphics and VFX3D ModelingVisualization and Real-TimeAdobeAECProduct and ManufacturingAnimation and IllustrationDeep Dive (X:Y)
Concepts
Introduction
- Entering the third dimension
- What you should know
Working in 3D Design Space
- Activating the 3D design space
- Working with the classic 3D renderer
- Using the Cinema 4D renderer
- Introducing the Advanced 3D renderer
- Camera tools for navigating 3D
- Using the 3D Transform Gizmo
Getting 3D Models
- Understanding different 3D file formats
- Using Adobe Stock to find 3D files
- Free and paid sources for 3D files
Creating 3D Comps
- Importing 3D models into After Effects
- Integrating 3D text and bending layers
- Animating the camera
- Classic light options
- Environment light and shadows
- Using image-based lighting
- Setting the Advanced 3D render options
Advanced 3D Settings
- Embedded 3D model animations
- Controlling speed
- Using a shadow catcher
- Applying effects
- Extracting depth data from a 3D scene
Conclusion
- Next steps