Are you looking to enhance your After Effects projects with 3D models? Adding OBJ files to your compositions can take your animations to the next level. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Install the Plugin

Before you can add OBJ files to After Effects, you'll need to install a plugin that enables this functionality. There are several plugins available, such as Element 3D and Plexus, that allow you to import and work with 3D models in After Effects. Once you've installed the plugin, you'll be ready to start adding OBJ files to your compositions.

Step 2: Import the OBJ File

After installing the plugin, you can import your OBJ file into After Effects. Simply go to the 'File' menu, select 'Import,' and choose 'File.' Navigate to your OBJ file and select it. After Effects will then prompt you to configure the import settings, such as the scale of the model and the axis orientation. Once you've adjusted these settings, click 'OK' to import the OBJ file into your composition.

Step 3: Create a New Solid

Now that your OBJ file is imported, you'll need to create a new solid to serve as the placeholder for your 3D model. Go to the 'Layer' menu, select 'New,' and choose 'Solid.' Ensure that the dimensions of the solid match the dimensions of your composition.

Step 4: Apply the 3D Plugin

With the new solid selected, apply the 3D plugin that you installed in Step 1. This will enable After Effects to recognize the solid as a 3D object and allow you to position and animate the OBJ file within your composition.

Step 5: Replace the Solid with the OBJ File

After applying the 3D plugin, you can now replace the solid with your imported OBJ file. Simply right-click on the solid in the timeline, select 'Replace,' and choose 'Model.' Then, navigate to your OBJ file and select it. After Effects will replace the solid with your 3D model, allowing you to manipulate it within your composition.

Step 6: Animate and Customize

Once your OBJ file is integrated into your composition, you can animate and customize it to fit your project's needs. Use keyframes to animate the position, rotation, and scale of the 3D model, and explore the various customization options offered by the 3D plugin you installed.

By following these steps, you can seamlessly add OBJ files to your After Effects projects and elevate your animations with stunning 3D models. Experiment with different plugins and 3D models to unlock a world of creative possibilities within After Effects.