Make 3D its own separate software that integrates with AE, not an AE feature.

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AE's 3D tools are stuck in 1996 because they are a discreet effect and controlled as such. Proper 3D VFX workflows require a good deal of flexibility, an entire monitor full of options, shaders, baking, export forms, VFX standards adherence, 3D data I/O, etc. Worst of all, AE isn't even true 3D. It's 2.5D, and the decrepit codebase can't really be changed without essentially building a new software.

Heck, Adobe owns substance 3D now, but to my knowledge has no software that really integrates with it, and instead has left it a messy toolbox of loosely related software with similar UI, and each has one main feature that most 3D software just put together to speed things up.

instead of trying to jam 3D into compositing software, make 3D VFX a new software, and make importing the renders, or rendering linked data, very robust. We're talking better handling for image seuences, color space transforms, LUT's, EXR handling, deep image format, 3D track export, the works. Maybe something that can actually compete with... well, at least be compared to modern workflows.

J

jordi_leon

Participant

Isn’t this an actual feature that’s been working for years with Cinema 4D and Cineware?
I ask genuinely, because I have never used it. I always preferred Element 3D that blended with native AE camera and lights.

I still see your point though. Even today, AE’s 3D workflow feels like an advanced patch rather than a pro environment (although I prefer what we have now than having no 3D at all).

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Quiquelux

Participant

While the recent 3D software improvements are certainly a step in the right direction, they still fall short of meeting the demands of a specialized segment of users. Instead of relying on band-aid solutions, a far more effective strategy would be opening After Effects to the wider 3D ecosystem through live-link integration with established native applications—such as Maya, Blender, Houdini, and most importantly, Unreal Engine.

There is also a critical need to evolve 3D tracking capabilities. While tools like KeenTools provide helpful workarounds, native 3D tracking (import/export), "3D stamp" functions, and tools to unify scene scale and origin remain underdeveloped. Streamlining these features would pave the way for a truly robust 3D projection system and more cohesive element management.

Additionally, introducing a native UV system capable of handling internal projections and modifications would dramatically speed up day-to-day adjustments.

Ultimately, the current trajectory feels more reactive than visionary. A forward-looking approach must prioritize scene scale unification and native support for industry-standard formats like Alembic and USD. This would unlock seamless projection workflows and allow for the quick, iterative tweaks that production environments demand.

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J

jordi_leon

Participant

100%

I don’t know if that ecosystem link between Adobe and other different companies would be possible (although Nvidia made it possible with OpenUSD, but every software from every company uses nvidia graphics cards, so...).

I don’t know, but I wish it’s possible someday.

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