Create a 3D Photo Cinematic Scene in After Effects | Parallax Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to create stunning 3D photo cinematic scenes using Adobe After Effects. This process involves separating your image in Photoshop and employing various techniques in After Effects to add depth and movement, transforming ordinary photos into engaging visuals. This guide is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their photo presentations or create compelling motion graphics.

Step 1: Separate Your Photo in Photoshop

To begin, you need to prepare your image by separating the foreground and background elements in Photoshop. This allows for greater control in After Effects.

1. Open Your Image in Photoshop

   • Launch Photoshop and import the photo you want to convert.

2. Select the Foreground

   • Use the Pen Tool or the Lasso Tool to carefully outline the subject you want to keep in the foreground.

3. Create a Layer Mask

   • Once selected, right-click on the selection and choose "Layer via Copy" to create a new layer with just the foreground.

4. Remove Background

   • Hide or delete the original background layer, leaving only the foreground layer visible.

5. Save Your File

   • Save the file in a format compatible with After Effects (like PSD or PNG).

Step 2: Create 3D Photos in After Effects with Volumax

Now that your photo is prepared, you can use the Volumax plugin to add depth and create 3D effects.

1. Import Your Photo into After Effects

   • Open After Effects and import the Photoshop file you just saved.

2. Apply Volumax

   • Install the Volumax plugin if you haven’t already. Use it to create 3D layers and establish depth in your photo.

3. Adjust Depth Settings

   • Fine-tune the depth settings in Volumax to achieve the desired 3D effect.

Step 3: Create 3D Movement and Optic Effects

Enhance the visual appeal by adding movement and optical effects.

1. Add Camera Layer

   • Create a new camera layer in your composition to give the illusion of depth as you move through the scene.

2. Animate Camera Movement

   • Use keyframes to animate the position and rotation of the camera. This movement creates a parallax effect.

3. Incorporate Optic Effects

   • Add lens flares or light rays to enhance the 3D feel. Adjust their intensity and position to match the scene.

Step 4: Add Atmospheric Effects

To make your scene more dynamic, consider adding atmospheric elements.

1. Create Atmospheric Layers

   • Add layers for fog, dust, or other atmospheric effects. These can be created using solid layers with effects applied.

2. Adjust Opacity and Blending Modes

   • Change the opacity and blending modes of these layers to integrate them seamlessly into your scene.

Step 5: Implement Crazy Motion Blur

Motion blur can add realism to your animations.

1. Enable Motion Blur for Layers

   • Turn on motion blur for the layers in your composition.

2. Add a Camera Motion Blur

   • Ensure that the camera layer also has motion blur enabled to enhance the overall effect.

Step 6: Use Puppet Animation

Puppet animation can bring static elements to life.

1. Select the Puppet Tool

   • Use the Puppet Tool to add pins to areas of your foreground layer.

2. Animate the Pins

   • Move the pins over time by setting keyframes, creating a fluid motion that makes your photo more interactive.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can transform standard 2D photos into captivating 3D scenes using Adobe After Effects. Start by preparing your image in Photoshop, then utilize Volumax and various animation techniques in After Effects to add depth and movement. Experiment with atmospheric effects and puppet animation to take your visuals to the next level. With practice, you can create stunning cinematic scenes that engage your audience. Happy animating!