Applying 3D effects to layers

There are four automated 3D effects that you can apply to any layer of an object: cutout, emboss, bevel, and ripple. Note that adding 3D effects will increase the file size of your compositions.


3D effects A. Original B. Cutout C. Emboss D. Bevel E. Ripple

To apply a 3D effect to a layer:

1. Select the object in the Composition window, and select the layer in the Object Layers palette.
2. Choose Window > 3D.
3. Choose one of the following effects: None, Cutout, Emboss, Bevel, or Ripple.
4. Specify the intensity of the effect:
• For Depth, enter a value between 0 (for no distance) and 40 to specify the distance in pixels between the edge of the layer and where the effect is greatest. A higher value increases distance and creates a greater apparent depth.
• For Softness, enter a value between 0 (for no blur) and 10 to specify the amount of Gaussian blur to apply to the layer. A higher value increases the apparent smoothness of the effect. A high value of softness is useful for preventing jagged edges on bevels, and to round over the top of a bevel.
• For Lighting, enter a value between 0 (for no difference) and 200 to specify the difference between the light and dark areas of the object. A value of 100 uses all the lighting information in the object. Lower and higher values have an effect similar to underexposing and overexposing the object.
5. Choose an Edge setting to specify the type of edge: Straight, Button, Plateau, or Ripple.

Note: The Edge settings are unavailable when you use the Cutout option.

6. Choose a Light setting:
• Normal to apply neutral lighting, highlights, and shadows to the object.
• Light Only to apply just neutral lighting and highlights to the object.
• Dark Only to apply just neutral lighting and shadows to the object.
7. In the angle area , enter the rotation angle in degrees to indicate the source of the light. An angle of 0° lights the object from the right, 90° lights it from the top, 180° lights it from the left, and 270° lights it from the bottom.