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Can I import a 3D PDF into After Effects?
Sorry for the super simple question!
I making a video in After Effects and I need to include the 3D product spinning around.
The client sent it to me as a 3D PDF. Can I import this into Cinema 4d Lite and then animate, and then export to AE?
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5 Replies
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I believe 3D PDF files use the U3D standard. If Cinema 4D can import U3D files (which I don’t think it can), you would be all set. There is a way to get the file into Cinema 4D (if you can strip the U3D file from a PDF – which I don’t know that you can). Okino makes a plugin for C4D to handle U3D files:
https://www.okino.com/conv/imp_u3d.htm
My guess is it’s expensive, as are most of Okino’s offerings – however, they all work very well. You would be better off getting one of the more standard 3D formats from your client. If they have the ability to create a 3D PDF file, then they have the original file with which the U3D was created, probably CAD software, most of which will output most any format you need.
Joe Bourke
Owner/Creative Director
Bourke Media
http://www.bourkemedia.com -
Thanks Joe!
OK… I’ll go back to the client and see if they can export as a FBX or DAE
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Just make sure it’s a format which will allow you to import the material library along with the model, so you don’t have to retexture the whole thing. I’ve had good luck with FBX format, but I do have 3DS Max to tweak things if I need it.
Joe Bourke
Owner/Creative Director
Bourke Media
http://www.bourkemedia.com -
Hi Joe, Thanks again! Quick question: I’m totally new to Cinema 4D, and I don’t have time to learn… I was just hoping to import this model, rotate it and export for AE.
The client sent me the model in .dae format, but when I open in Cinema 4D, I see this (attached screen shot)
Is this just a matter of turning on or off some preferences? Or is the file itself problematic?
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I’m not very knowledgeable of C4D, but if the wireframe I’m looking at is the model, and not the lights in the scene, it’s possible that you either need to Flip Normals, or make your materials (if there are any applied) two-sided.
Joe Bourke
Owner/Creative Director
Bourke Media
http://www.bourkemedia.com
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