Are you ready to take your After Effects projects to the next level? In this article, we'll show you how to create and export an OBJ file in After Effects, allowing you to incorporate 3D elements into your animations and visual effects.
Step 1: Set up your 3D composition
Before you can export an OBJ file, you need to set up a 3D composition in After Effects. To do this, create a new composition and then add a 3D layer by clicking on the 3D Layer icon. You can then use the various 3D tools in After Effects to position and animate your 3D elements.
Step 2: Install the plugin
After Effects does not have a built-in feature to export OBJ files, so you will need to use a third-party plugin. One popular option is the Element 3D plugin by Video Copilot, which allows you to create and export 3D models directly from After Effects. Once you have installed the plugin, you can access it from the Effects & Presets panel.
Step 3: Create and manipulate your 3D model
With the Element 3D plugin installed, you can start creating and manipulating your 3D model within After Effects. Use the plugin's tools to build your model from scratch or import an existing 3D model file. You can then texture, animate, and position your model to fit seamlessly into your composition.
Step 4: Export the OBJ file
Once you are happy with your 3D model, it's time to export it as an OBJ file. In the Element 3D plugin, navigate to the Output settings and choose OBJ as the export format. You can then specify the file destination and any additional settings before finalizing the export. After Effects will generate the OBJ file, ready for use in your 3D animation or modeling software.
Step 5: Incorporate the OBJ file into your 3D projects
With your OBJ file exported, you can now use it in other 3D animation and modeling software such as Blender, Cinema 4D, or Maya. Import the OBJ file into your preferred software and take advantage of its 3D capabilities to further enhance your projects.
By following these steps, you can easily create and export an OBJ file in After Effects, opening up a world of possibilities for incorporating 3D elements into your motion graphics and visual effects. Whether you're creating a dynamic title sequence, a captivating logo animation, or a stunning visual effect, the ability to work with 3D models can add a new dimension to your After Effects projects. Get started today and elevate your motion graphics to new heights!
