Archive notice: This article was originally published on December 3, 2014. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
The Element 3D plug-in was originally developed to allow 3D objects to be imported and edited in After Effects. Video Copilot has taken this function to a new level, so that shadows, ambient occlusion and dynamic reflection maps are now also displayed better in version 2. This makes it possible to adjust looks faster. The user interface has also been redesigned so that it is clearer and faster. Group folders and navigation controls make it possible to organise files more effectively. The new Physical Shader System is intended to increase render quality, make it possible to create realistic materials and provide many control options.
The 3D model deformation tools are also new. In each group there is a Deform rollout in the particle look; this option allows users to add noise to any 3D geometry and thereby create looks and animations.
Other features include Pre-Material Transfer Modes, Sub Surface Scatterings and Matte Shadows. Here Andrew Kramer presents the new features in detail:
For new customers, Element 3D V2 will be available for around 200 US dollars. An upgrade from version 1 costs around 100 US dollars. Element 3D version 2 is available here.
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