Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Element 3D does not have a proper modeler within it. You must create models within
another 3D package. There are free modelers available (such as Blender). Some can
be quite expensive (Maya, Lightwave, 3D Studio Max, Cinema 4D, and so on). The
principals shown in the modeling section of this topic (
Chapter 3
,
Your First Objects
,
and
Chapter 4
,
Painting Your Geometry (Textures)
) can be applied to any 3D software.
They all contain the tools used in this topic; just the locations of the buttons might
change. Thus, it is assumed that you are familiar with the interface of the modeling
software that you have chosen.
What is 3D?
It should be said that we are not referring to stereoscopic imagery. You do not
need glasses or a lenticular screen to view 3D animation. In the world of animation,
3D refers to simulating depth by creating a virtual world within your workspace
(as opposed to drawing on a two-dimensional sheet of paper or cell).
What is Element 3D really?
Element 3D is far more than just another 3D plugin for After Effects. It's truly a
revolutionary change in the method of 3D animation that has traditionally been
used. For the first time, a user can bring to bear fully animated 3D models created
in virtually any modeling software from within their compositing software (After
Effects). An entire topic could be devoted to the principles of 3D animation. Sufice
to say that from the first mainstream computer animation (Alfred Hitchcock's
Vertigo
opening credit sequence), it's taken over 50 years and countless man-hours to get to
the point of, Element 3D.
Element 3D was originally developed as an object array animator. Wow, sounds
impressive, doesn't it? Well, it is. Element handles 3D objects as if they were particles,
and animates them in groups. Sometimes, these are groups of one object (such as an
airplane flying across the sky); sometimes, these are hundreds of objects (such as a
group of dancing iPhones). What really makes Element unique is that it gives an After
Effects user the ability to animate stunning 3D animations within After Effects itself!
