How to Pose a 3D Model in Clip Studio Paint: A Quick Guide to Bringing Your Models to Life in CPS

Posing a 3D model in Clip Studio Paint can be an excellent way to create dynamic compositions, speed up your drawing process, and experiment with anatomy and perspective. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide:

1. Add a 3D Model to Your Canvas
2. Open Clip Studio Paint and navigate to the Material panel (usually found on the right sidebar). Under the “3D” folder, choose “Body Type” or another 3D model, then drag it onto your canvas.
3. Select the 3D Layer
4. Click on the 3D layer in your Layer palette to make sure it’s active. The model’s outline and manipulation gizmo will appear.
5. Activate the Pose Manipulator
6. With the 3D model layer selected, use the Operation tool (shortcut ‘O’), then choose “Object” sub tool. Now, you’ll see points at each joint and can start manipulating the pose.
7. Adjust Joints Manually
8. Click on circles at the major joints (shoulders, elbows, knees, etc.) to rotate them. Drag the colored handles to move the joint along desired axes. You can adjust overall body orientation using the circle at the model’s base.
9. Use Preset Poses
10. Clip Studio Paint offers preset poses. In the Material panel, go to “Pose” and drag a pose onto your 3D model. This instantly updates the pose, and you can then further tweak it.
11. Fine-Tune Camera and Perspective
12. Use the camera controls in the corner or canvas to position the model from any angle, zoom, or rotate the view for the perfect reference.
13. Use the Mirror and Reset Functions
14. If you want to mirror the pose or start over, right-click on the model to access the context menu with options to mirror or reset poses.
15. Lock the Pose and Draw Over
16. Once your pose is ready, lock the 3D layer to keep it in place. Add new raster/vector layers on top and begin drawing!

As a designer, I find that working with digital models is very similar to managing the initial schematic stage in 3D floor planner tools. It’s all about establishing structure and layout before adding details. Just like in interior design, experimenting flexibly with different perspectives and “furnishings” (poses) allows greater creativity and more natural end results.

Tips 1:

After posing, try saving custom poses you’ve created for reuse. This helps develop a personal pose library, much like keeping a collection of favorite interior layouts for future projects!

FAQ

Q: Can I import my own 3D models into Clip Studio Paint?

A: Yes, Clip Studio Paint supports formats like OBJ and FBX. Place the model in the Material panel and drag it onto your canvas.

Q: Are there free 3D pose assets available?

A: Clip Studio Assets library offers many free and paid 3D pose resources for fast setup.

Q: Can I adjust the proportions of the default 3D model?

A: Yes, you can change body proportions in the “Tool Property” panel when the model is selected, or use shape sliders for adjustment.

Q: How do I create a dynamic camera angle?

A: Use the camera manipulation tools visible when the 3D layer is active to pan, tilt, and zoom for the right composition.

Q: Are there shortcuts for posing models?

A: The main shortcut is ‘O’ for the Operation tool. From there, you can quickly select, move, or rotate joints with your mouse or tablet.