Video Copilot Element 3D
Element 3D by Video Copilot is a powerful After Effects plugin for importing, animating, and rendering 3D models directly inside the After Effects interface. Known for its speed and real-time performance, it’s a go-to tool for motion designers working with 3D assets.
Element 3D by Video Copilot is a real-time 3D rendering plugin for Adobe After Effects. It allows users to import and animate 3D models inside After Effects without relying on external 3D software or lengthy render times. Built for speed and flexibility, it supports OBJ and C4D formats, image-based lighting, reflections, and advanced texturing options.
What It Does Best
3D Model Integration: Import and animate 3D objects using GPU-accelerated rendering inside AE.
Material Control: Apply textures, reflections, normal maps, and environmental lighting with precision.
Particle Replication: Create arrays, groups, and particle-based 3D animations with custom controls.
Who It’s For
Motion Designers: Adding 3D assets to compositions without leaving After Effects.
Title Designers & VFX Artists: Building cinematic 3D intros, HUDs, or animated elements directly in AE.
AE Power Users: Seeking real-time rendering capabilities without external 3D tools.
What Makes It Unique
Element 3D combines the flexibility of 3D design with the speed of GPU rendering inside After Effects. It bridges the gap between 2D and 3D workflows, offering a fast way to incorporate high-quality 3D visuals directly into motion graphics projects.
Before You Start
Requires Adobe After Effects on macOS or Windows (GPU with sufficient VRAM recommended).
Supports standard 3D formats like OBJ and C4D.
Additional model packs and shaders are available for extended use cases.
Final Thoughts
Element 3D provides a performance-driven solution for working with 3D content inside After Effects, ideal for users looking to add depth and realism without a full 3D pipeline.
