Substance 3D Viewer Intro: Universal 3D Model Viewer with Photoshop Integration!
Education
Introduction
Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to a new tool from the Substance 3D family called Substance 3D Viewer. As the name suggests, this tool is designed to visualize your 3D models. It supports over 70 formats, including FBX, OBG, USD, GLB, and even Goan Spite, ensuring that you can open virtually any 3D model you have. This application is super fast and, best of all, completely free to use!
Installation
Getting started is quick and easy. Simply launch the Creative Cloud desktop application and head to the Beta section, where you'll find Substance 3D Viewer Beta. No subscription is required; all you need is an Adobe account to install it. I recommend also installing the Photoshop Beta, especially for graphic designers, as you'll see in the workflows discussed later.
User Interface Overview
When you launch the viewer, you'll be greeted with a clean and familiar interface. Recent files, tutorials, and a drag-and-drop space for 3D objects make it simple to get started. As I demonstrate how to use it, you'll see that it offers more than just visualization.
Opening Files and Folders
You can easily open individual files or entire folders. For instance, dragging a USD file onto the viewer will display the model within seconds. Navigation is intuitive: right-click to rotate, middle-click to pan, and use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out.
Material Properties
One of the features that stands out is the ability to edit material properties. By selecting a mesh split by material, you can adjust colors, metallic values, roughness, and more—all without needing an advanced understanding of 3D modeling.
Composition and Canvas View
Another cool feature is the Canvas view, where you can select a background image and position your 3D object accordingly. There are several transformation options, allowing for dynamic positioning of your models.
Integration with Photoshop
One of the unique aspects of Substance 3D Viewer is its integration with Photoshop. Graphic designers can now incorporate 3D objects directly into their compositions, eliminating the need for multiple renders from a 3D artist. You'll simply drag and drop the 3D model into Photoshop, where it becomes a smart object. Double-clicking this smart object opens it in the 3D Viewer for adjustments.
The workflow allows graphic designers to make lighting, perspective, and material changes seamlessly. If changes are made in the viewer, they automatically update within Photoshop, streamlining collaboration between 3D teams and graphic designers.
Generative Features
Substance 3D Viewer also integrates Adobe Firefly, facilitating generative processes. You can prompt the software to generate scenes, images, or new looks for your models by simply typing a description. This feature combines your 3D shape with generative capabilities, providing a hybrid way to create artwork.
Practical Applications
The viewer is beneficial across various industries:
- Graphic Design: Designers can incorporate 3D objects into their work easily, iterating on designs based on client feedback.
- Interior Design: Quickly visualize room setups and layouts.
- Product Design: Generate mock-ups and scenarios without starting from scratch.
Whether you are in product design, architecture, or graphic arts, the Substance 3D Viewer is a versatile tool that can adapt to your workflow.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, the Substance 3D Viewer is user-friendly, fast, and integrates seamlessly with Photoshop. It enhances collaboration and opens up new workflows for both graphic designers and 3D artists. Download it for free and start exploring the possibilities today!
Keyword
Substance 3D Viewer, 3D models, universal viewer, Photoshop integration, material properties, canvas view, generative design, graphic design, user-friendly, free tool.
FAQ
What is Substance 3D Viewer?
Substance 3D Viewer is a free tool for visualizing 3D models that supports over 70 file formats.
Is it necessary to have a subscription to use Substance 3D Viewer?
No, you only need an Adobe account to install and use it.
Can I integrate Substance 3D Viewer with Photoshop?
Yes, the viewer integrates with Photoshop, allowing graphic designers to incorporate 3D models directly into their compositions.
What types of 3D models can I open in Substance 3D Viewer?
You can open models in various formats like FBX, OBG, USD, GLB, and more.
Are there generative design capabilities in Substance 3D Viewer?
Yes, it integrates Adobe Firefly for generative processes, allowing you to create scenes or new looks for your models based on prompts.