How to Import 3D Model FBX into After Effects: 1 Minute to Master 3D Model Importing

Importing a 3D FBX model into After Effects isn’t as direct as importing image or video files, but it’s totally doable with the right workflow. Since After Effects doesn’t natively support FBX files, you’ll need to use an intermediary tool or plugin. The most common method is through Adobe’s Cineware plugin, Element 3D by Video Copilot, or by first converting the FBX to an OBJ (which is supported by some plugins). Here’s how you can get your FBX 3D model into After Effects step by step:

1. Convert FBX to Supported Format: Use a 3D software like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max to open your FBX model, then export it as an OBJ or C4D file. OBJ works well for plugins like Element 3D. To export:
2. Open FBX in your 3D software
3. File > Export As > OBJ or C4D
4. Install a 3D Plugin for After Effects: Element 3D is one of the most popular plugins for importing and manipulating 3D objects within AE. If you have Maxon’s Cinema 4D Lite (bundled with AE), you can work directly with C4D files.
5. Import to After Effects:
6. Open After Effects and create a new composition
7. If using Element 3D: Create a solid layer > Effects > Video Copilot > Element
8. Within Element’s Scene Setup, import your OBJ model
9. If using Cineware: Add a new Cineware layer, import the C4D file directly
10. Texture, Light, and Animate: Assign materials, adjust lighting, and animate your model as needed. These plugins allow real-time manipulation inside AE, but you’re still working in a 2.5D context.
11. Render and Export: Once your 3D scene is set up and animated, render your composition and export as usual.

As a designer, I see importing 3D models as a way to expand creative possibilities for motion graphics, product design visualization, or architectural promos. If you’re planning to integrate complex interiors or custom layouts, the interface and flexibility of After Effects plugins are invaluable. For instance, once you understand how to import and manipulate OBJ models, you can start building your own 3D Render Home environments for video presentations, walkthroughs, or marketing materials—an essential trick if you want your design portfolio to stand out.

Tips 1:

Avoid overloaded geometry—reduce polycount before importing for faster previews. Always check the scale and alignment of your models, as import/export can sometimes skew proportions. Standardize your textures to compatible image formats (like PNG or JPG) to ensure seamless rendering in After Effects.

FAQ

Q: Can After Effects import FBX files directly?

A: No, After Effects cannot natively import FBX files. You need to convert FBX to a supported format like OBJ or C4D and use a plugin such as Element 3D or Cineware.

Q: Which plugin is best for working with 3D models in After Effects?

A: Element 3D by Video Copilot is widely used for importing and animating OBJ files. Cineware works well with C4D files.

Q: How do I keep my model textures during import?

A: Make sure your textures are properly mapped in your 3D software and exported in compatibility with the chosen plugin. Reassigning or tweaking textures inside After Effects plugins may be needed.

Q: Are animations from FBX models imported into After Effects?

A: Imported OBJ or C4D models do not typically retain keyframe animation. Animation must be redone inside After Effects or Cinema 4D.

Q: Why does my 3D model look distorted in After Effects?

A: This can occur due to scale mismatches, missing textures, or excessive polygon counts. Normalize your models’ scale and optimize geometry before importing.