Create 3D objects and animations in Photoshop

In this practical tip, we explain how to create 3D objects and animations in Photoshop.

Create 3D objects in Photoshop

You can generate 3D objects in Photoshop using the "3D" option.

• Open any file in Photoshop and create a new blank layer. Name it for example "3D".
• Select the brush tool and create a line on this layer in white with, for example, 15 pixels and a hardness of 100 percent.
• Now, for example, draw a circle and be careful not to draw any edges.
• Select the object by holding down the "CTRL key" and clicking on the layer in your layer window.
• Go to the "Path window" and create a path from the selection.
• Go to "Window"> "3D" and set "Work path" under Source. Now select "3D extrusion" and confirm the settings with "Create".

Create animations in Photoshop

1. Open the file in which you want to insert the animation.
2. Go to "Window"> "Animation" and use it to open the Photoshop animation window. In this window, go to the "Frames view" at the bottom right.
3. Now create a new layer and create your desired animation. Place this on the left edge of the file.
4. Generate a new frame in your animation window under "Create Frame" at the bottom of the menu.
5. On this second frame, drag your object to be animated to the right edge of the file. Now go to the animation window on the "insert in between" symbol.
6. You can make any settings in the window. For example, you can specify the number of frames in between.
7. Confirm your settings with "OK" and your animation is ready, which you can watch under "Play".

With Photoshop you can simulate the comic effect without additional tools.