3D text workflow

Although 3D text can be customized in unlimited ways, you can create impressive-looking 3D text in just a few simple steps.

Canvas showing finished example of 3D text.

Stage 1: Create a 3D text object

You can create a new 3D text object from scratch or convert an existing 2D text object into 3D text. Both approaches result in basic 3D text: white characters with a smooth plastic texture that are gently extruded in Z space (depth).

Figure. Canvas showing newly created 3D text.

Stage 2: Apply a preset style

To give basic 3D text a more dynamic appearance, you can apply one of the ready-made 3D text styles that come with Motion.

Figure. Inspector showing 3D Text Sytles pop-up menu.

The text style is applied to the selected text.

Figure. Canvas showing 3D text with style applied.

The preset 3D text styles artfully combine font, depth, and texture settings.

Stage 3: Adjust text settings

You can further modify your 3D text by adjusting basic text settings (including font, size, tracking, line spacing, and capitalization) or adjusting 3D-specific text attributes (such as depth, text weight, edge style, and corner style) in the Text Inspector or HUD.

Figure. HUD being adjusted to change 3D text size.

To get a good look at all sides of your 3D text, you can move and rotate it in 3D space.

Figure. 3D HUD being adjusted to change 3D text rotation.

Stage 4: Modify the materials

If you want to, you can customize the texture of your 3D text by applying different textures and finishes available in the Materials category of the Motion Library. Materials include substances (such as metal or plastic), paint layers, distress layers, and more. Each layer has many attributes, allowing you to create limitless variations. You can even apply different materials to different facets of 3D text (front, back, side, and edges).

Choosing Yellow Plastic from the Material preview thumbnail

Stage 5: Add a lighting style

Another way to customize the appearance of your 3D text is to add a lighting style.

Figure. Inspector showing 3D text Lighting Style pop-up menu.

You can customize lighting in a variety of different ways, but these presets are a great way to create a unique and realistic look very quickly.

Figure. Canvas showing 3D text with lighting style applied.

Stage 6: Integrate the text with your composition

Finally, combine your 3D text with backgrounds, shadows, and other elements to create an organic, integrated scene.

Canvas showing finished example of 3D text.