Classic Video Copilot Tutorials Series Part 3 – Element 3D Set Extension

In this series we explore the treasure trove of VFX tutorials from the archives. Join us on a journey back in time to revisit the timeless teachings of Andrew Kramer and Video Copilot. Despite changes in software and trends, the practical wisdom embedded in these classic tutorials remains just as relevant today. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dig into these tutorials together, re-discovering practical insights that can still be applied in our modern VFX projects. This time – Design a 3D Set Extension with Element 3D….

Part 1: Create a new composition:

Open After Effects and create a new composition.
Set the composition to 1080p (1920×1080 pixels). Choose a frame rate (e.g., 24 fps) and duration suitable for your project.
Create a new solid layer and name it “e3d roof”.

Part 2: Set up Element 3D:

Apply the Element 3D effect to the “e3d roof” solid layer.
In the Effect Controls panel, click on “Scene Setup” to open the Element 3D interface.
In the Environment section, choose a basic 2K outdoor scene from the presets to start with a realistic reflection environment.

Part 3: Load and arrange 3D models:

In the Element 3D interface, navigate to the Rooftop Toolkit models, which can be downloaded from Video Copilot website.
Start by adding larger elements like air conditioning units and vents:
Click on the desired model to add it to the scene.
Use the move (W), rotate (E), and scale (R) tools to position and size the elements.
Add smaller details like barrels, pipes, and antennas:
Distribute these elements across the rooftop to create visual interest.
Use Alt+drag to duplicate objects for faster population.
Adjust model properties:
Click on individual models to access their material settings.
Experiment with color tints, metallic properties, and glossiness to add variation.
For some models (like pipes), use the mesh view to enable/disable parts for custom configurations.

Part 4: Create the rooftop surface:

In the Element 3D interface, create a new plane.
Set the plane size to 5×5 (adjust as needed for your scene scale).
Apply the rooftop texture:
Drag the roof texture into the diffuse slot of the material.
Add the normal map to the normal slot and adjust its intensity (e.g., set to 5).
Adjust UV mapping:
In the object properties, set UV repeat to 2.5 x 2.5 for proper tiling.
Enhance the material:
Reduce overall glossiness for a more matte look.
Use the diffuse texture as a glossiness map to create varied surface reflectivity.
Adjust levels, brightness, and contrast of the glossiness map for a realistic wet look.

Part 5: Set up lighting:

In After Effects, create a new light (Layer > New > Light).
Choose “Parallel” as the light type and set a warm color temperature.
Position the light to simulate sunlight (e.g., from the top-right).
In Element 3D render settings:
Enable shadows and increase shadow map resolution.
Switch to ray-traced shadows if your hardware allows.
Enable and configure ambient occlusion:
Switch to ray-traced ambient occlusion for better quality.
Adjust max distance, intensity, and falloff for realistic soft shadows.

Part 6: Add background elements:

Import background building images into your project.
Add these as layers below your Element 3D layer.
Make the background layers 3D.
Adjust their scale and position to match your scene’s perspective.
Use the 3D position to create depth between mid-ground and far background elements.

Part 7: Add foreground elements:

Import green screen footage of an actor (if desired).
Apply keying effect (e.g., Keylight) to remove the green screen.
Refine the key with garbage mattes and spill suppression.
Add smoke elements:
Place smoke footage in the composition.
Make smoke layers 3D and position them in the scene.
Use blending modes and opacity to integrate the smoke.
Color correct added elements to match the scene.

Part 8: Create camera movement:

Create a null object (Layer > New > Null Object).
Make the null object 3D.
Parent the camera to this null object.
Animate the null object’s position for camera movement (e.g., a slow push-in).

Part 9: Enhance realism:

Fine-tune the rooftop surface in Element 3D:
Adjust glossiness for a damp or wet appearance.
Enable reflections using the “Reflect Mode: Mirror Surface” option.
Refine environment settings:
Adjust environment map rotation, brightness, and gamma to match your background.
Tweak overall lighting to blend CG elements with the background.

Part 10: Animate scene elements (optional):

For scene elements like fans:
In Element 3D, select the fan mesh in Group 1.
Assign it to Auxiliary Channel 1.
In After Effects, animate the Auxiliary Channel 1 property to rotate the fan.

Part 11: Final touches:

Apply color correction to the entire composition:
Use curves or color balance to match the mood and time of day.
Add subtle effects like lens flares or light wraps for integration.
Render a preview and make final adjustments to timing and composition.

LEARN MORE