After Effects Tutorial - Element Three-dimensional background

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create a stunning three-dimensional background using the Element 3D plugin from Video Copilot in Adobe After Effects. This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through each step to get you started quickly. Let's dive right in!

Step 1: Setting Up Your Composition

1. Create a New Composition:

   • Open After Effects and create a new composition. Click "OK."

2. Create a New Solid Layer:

   • Navigate to the menu and select Layer > New > Solid. Name it "Element" and click "OK."

3. Apply the Element Effect:

   • Go to Effect > Video Copilot > Element. This will apply the Element 3D effect to your solid layer.

4. Open Scene Setup:

   • Click on the "Scene Setup" button to enter the Element interface.

Step 2: Creating the Cylinder

1. Add a Cylinder:

   • Inside the Element interface, create a cylinder object.
   • Adjust the sides of the cylinder to 6 by going to Sides and setting it accordingly.

2. Remove Unwanted Smoothing:

   • To remove smoothing, navigate to Smoothing and please check the box to disable it.

3. Select a Color Preset:

   • Navigate to Presets and drag your desired color onto the cylinder.

Step 3: Working with the Camera

1. Add a Camera Layer:

   • Go to Layer > New > Camera, and click "OK."

2. Control the Camera:

   • Use the camera tools to orbit around your object. You can control the camera positioning and scaling with the 'C' key on the keyboard.

Step 4: Adjusting Settings for the Element

1. Modify Particle Settings:

   • In the Effect Controls panel, go to Group 1 particle settings. Set the Point to 3D and adjust the Shape Scale accordingly.
   • Decrease Grid Y and adjust Grid X to around 10 and Z to 10.

2. Copy and Paste Groups:

   • Copy Group 1 to Group 2 to duplicate the shape. Go into Group 2’s position settings and modify the X and Y values to adjust their placement.

Step 5: Adding Lighting and Effects

1. Add a Light Layer:

   • Create a new light layer using Layer > New > Light. Position it appropriately.

2. Adjust Scatter Settings:

   • In the Element effect under the Replicator settings, adjust the Y Scatter to modify the spread of your elements in both groups.

3. Enable Shadows and Ambient Occlusion:

   • Go into the Render Settings and enable Shadows. Change the shadow color to gray and adjust the ambient occlusion settings.

Step 6: Adding Noise and Adjustments

1. Noise Settings:

   • Navigate to Position Noise in Group 1 and increase the noise amount to around 200.

2. Adjust Color Correction Effects:

   • Add an Adjustment Layer and apply color effects. Use Effect > Color Correction > Curves to refine the look and add glow effects to enhance the background.

Conclusion

Once you've completed these steps, you'll have a captivating three-dimensional background ready for use in your projects. Thank you for following this tutorial on creating 3D backgrounds with Element in After Effects. If you liked this tutorial, don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more content!

Keywords

• After Effects
• Element 3D
• Video Copilot
• Three-dimensional background
• Cylinder
• Camera control
• Lights
• Particle settings
• Color correction

FAQ

Q1: What is the Element 3D plugin?
A1: Element 3D is a third-party plugin for Adobe After Effects developed by Video Copilot that allows users to create and manipulate 3D objects within the After Effects environment.

Q2: Do I need advanced skills to create a 3D background using Element?
A2: No, this tutorial is designed for beginners, and it provides step-by-step instructions to help you create a 3D background easily.

Q3: Can I use other shapes besides a cylinder?
A3: Yes, you can create various 3D shapes using the Element 3D plugin. The process is similar for adding different types of objects.

Q4: Which After Effects version is compatible with Element 3D?
A4: Element 3D is compatible with various versions of After Effects, but it's always good to check the official Video Copilot website for compatibility with the latest versions.

Q5: Is it necessary to add lights to my 3D elements?
A5: While not strictly necessary, adding lights can greatly enhance the look of your 3D elements by creating depth and shadow effects.