Episode 65: Warp Projection – 3D Environments from a 2D Image

In this multidimensional episode of Red Giant TV, designer Harry Frank is going to walk you through creating a 3D environment from a 2D image, all in After Effects.  This won’t be using traditional camera projection techniques – nor will it use vanishing point in photoshop. Instead, Harry’s figured out a technique for warping images to build 3D layers.  You’ll also learn some great compositing  and color correction techniques to finish off the job right.

Watch the tutorial HERE.

OK -  if you’re new to 3D, then the term “Backface” might not mean much to you. But it still beats calling the post “Managing Front & Back Particle Visibility in Trapcode Form” which is the name of this very useful tutorial by Harry Frank. If you’ve never culled a backface… well… you’re going to want to after watching this. Trust me. Because while Harry uses this technique for hiding some particles, it can also be used as a way to transition/reveal a whole Form 3D OBJ from front to back. Watch and learn, buddy:

Red Giant QuickTip 52: Managing Front & Back Particle Visibility in Trapcode Form

In this Quick Tip, Harry Frank shows how to easily manage front and back visibility with 3D null objects and some simple expressions inside Trapcode Form.

Often when using Trapcode Form, it’s ideal to have particles appear invisible on the area facing away from the camera. In 3D applications, this is commonly referred to as “backface culling.”

You can see this in action in the experimental piece “Cosm” by host Harry Frank: vimeo.com/​28093993

Ever wonder why you can’t put After Effects 3D layers in the middle of your Trapcode Particular particle system? They both use 3D space and react to the camera, yet the layers are either behind or in front of ALL the particle. It can be really frustrating, and can make a convincing composite impossible.

BUT DO NOT LOSE HOPE! In this QuickTip from Harry frank, he’ll explain what’s going on, and show you how to put a layer in between particles. Watch it HERE.

Also, there’s a Red Giant TV tutorial called “Better Compositing with Particles” that covers tackling the same problem, but in a very different way. Depending on your situation, you can use either of them.

Finally, if you’re ready to take on this challenge with lots of 3D layers – check out sParticular – an awesome script from AEscripts.com which will give you real control over putting layers in your Trapcode Particular particle system.

When it comes to stereoscopic 3D, I know how intimidating it can be because I’m a beginner myself. I took some time to do a little research, and I wanted to share my explorations with you, in an episode of Red Giant TV. This is just a “basics” but hopefully it will help kick-start you.

Episode 59: Trapcode 3D Stereoscopic Workflow Basics

In this Episode of Red Giant TV, Aharon Rabinowitz explores the basics of 3D Stereoscopic Workflow with Trapcode 3D plug-ins.This tutorial is a great intro to Stereoscopic 3D in After Effects. If you have them, bring your 3D Glasses – it will help.

Watch the tutorial HERE.

And check out Pinkau.com to get the FREE stereoscopic tools (and tutorials) for AE, By Christoph Keller.

Red Giant QuickTip #34: Fast 3D Effects in Final Cut Pro

In this tutorial Apple Certified Master Trainer Simon Walker shows you how to improve up your workflow by compositing elements in a virtual 3D space with reflections and glow elements, without leaving the Final Cut timeline.

Check out Simon’s site @ simonwalkerfreelance.com

Related Links:

• Get Red Giant Warp HERE.
• Get Simon Walker’s Weddings & Events for Looks HERE.
• Check out Simon Walkers website HERE.

In this episode, I’ll shares some tips for simplifying and working with 3D compositions. We’ll also get look at at some cool tools designed to easily distribute layers in 3D space, and that help create complex 3D shapes.

Watch the tutorial here.