Create 3D Text
After Effects Tutorial

In this step-by-step tutorial you'll learn how to create impressive 3D text in Adobe After Effects — no third-party plugins required. This is an easy to follow guide suitable for beginners and intermediate users.

Step-by-Step

1. Create a new composition. 1920×1080, 25fps, duration 5 seconds. Set the background colour to a dark neutral.
2. Add a text layer. Use the Type tool to add your text. Choose a bold, clean typeface — thick strokes render better in 3D.
3. Enable 3D. Click the 3D layer switch (the cube icon) on the text layer in the timeline. The layer now responds to 3D cameras and lights.
4. Add a camera. Layer → New → Camera. Use a 35mm preset. This gives you a natural perspective for the 3D scene.
5. Add lights. Add a Point Light and an Ambient Light. Position the Point Light above and to the side of the text. Reduce the Ambient intensity to around 20% for contrast.
6. Enable per-character 3D. In the text layer's Animate menu, enable Enable Per-character 3D. This unlocks full 3D depth for each letter individually.
7. Animate the camera. Keyframe the camera Position — pull back from close to the text over the first 2 seconds. Add gentle easing with the Easy Ease keyboard shortcut (F9).
8. Render. Use the Media Encoder or built-in Render Queue. Use H.264 for web delivery, or PNG sequence for broadcast.

Tips for Better Results

Use a dark background to let the 3D depth show through shadows. Apply a slight Bevel and Emboss layer style to the text before enabling 3D — it adds realistic edge highlights. Keep your camera move subtle; slow, deliberate camera work looks far more professional than fast spinning.