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3D Text Animation in After Effects | Tutorial

Education

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to create a stunning 3D text animation in Adobe After Effects. You'll learn how to utilize the Cinema 4D Renderer, animate text properties, and add dynamic movements to your text. Follow these instructions to enhance your After Effects skills and create eye-catching visual effects.

Step 1: Set Up Your Text Layer

  • Begin by creating a text layer with your desired text.
  • Select the text layer in your timeline to access its settings.

Step 2: Change the 3D Renderer

  • Navigate to the Composition Settings by clicking on the menu, and set the 3D Renderer to Cinema 4D. This switch allows for more advanced 3D features.

Step 3: Enable Per Character 3D

  • Go to the Animate menu and enable Per Character 3D. This setting allows you to manipulate each character individually for more dynamic animations.

Step 4: Adjust Geometry Options

  • Under Geometry Options, set the following parameters:
    • Bevel Style: Choose Angular
    • Bevel Depth: Set to 2
    • Extrusion Depth: Set to 100

These settings will give your text a dimensional appearance.

Step 5: Add Color Animators

  • Create an Animator for the Side Color and set it to RGB. Then, change the bevel color to Black.

Step 6: Add Rotation Animator

  • Next, add a Rotation Animator. Adjust the Y Rotation to 25 degrees.
  • In the Range Selector, animate the End property from 0% to 100% over a duration of 20 frames. This will create a rotating effect for your text.

Step 7: Add Position Animators

  1. First Position Animator:

    • Set the Position to 3000.
    • Animate the Start from 0% to 100% over 20 frames. This positions your text in space.

  2. Second Position Animator:

    • Set the Position to 300.
    • Animate the End position starting from 0% at 6 frames to 100% at 24 frames.

These position animations will add movement to the text as it appears on the screen.

Step 8: Apply Easy Ease

  • Make sure to add Easy Ease to all keyframes using the shortcut F9. This will create smoother animations that feel more natural.

Conclusion

You have now created a dynamic 3D text animation in After Effects! Experiment further with different settings, colors, and timings to create your own unique effects. Enjoy animating!

Keywords

3D Text Animation, After Effects, Cinema 4D, Per Character 3D, Geometry Options, Bevel Style, RGB, Y Rotation, Position Animator, Easy Ease

FAQ

Q1: What version of After Effects do I need to use Cinema 4D Renderer?
A1: You need After Effects CC (2015) or later to utilize the Cinema 4D Renderer.

Q2: How can I adjust the depth of my text?
A2: You can adjust the depth in the Geometry Options by setting the Extrusion Depth and Bevel Depth.

Q3: What does the Easy Ease function do?
A3: The Easy Ease function smooths out animation transitions, making movements appear more fluid and natural.

Q4: Can I customize the colors of the text?
A4: Yes, you can adjust the Side Color and Bevel Color in the Animator settings for customized visual effects.

Q5: How do I create a seamless loop animation?
A5: Ensure that the start and end keyframes have matching properties; this often involves careful adjustments to timing and positions.