After Effects

Adobe After Effects 24.1 and later supports native 3D model import, allowing you to bring A23D models directly into compositions as 3D model layers with real-time lighting, shadows, camera interaction, and PBR shading via the Advanced 3D renderer. Current After Effects versions import GLTF, GLB, OBJ, and FBX.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about using A23D assets with After Effects

Do I need a plugin to use A23D assets in After Effects?

No. After Effects 24.1 and later can import 3D model files directly. Current Adobe documentation lists GLB, GLTF, OBJ, and FBX as supported import formats. No third-party plugin is required.

Which file format should I download for use in After Effects?

You don't need to pick a format manually - just select After Effects in the Software dropdown on the asset page and A23D delivers the right format automatically. For After Effects that's .gltf, which preserves object hierarchy, transforms, and material references reliably. FBX is also supported by After Effects, but GLTF is the better default when the assets is PBR textured.

How do A23D PBR textures appear in After Effects?

When you import the A23D .gltf file, After Effects also tracks the dependent texture files from the same folder. The model renders with its PBR materials intact in the Composition when those dependencies remain in place. You can adjust material response through the model layer's material controls, lights, environment, and camera. After Effects does not have a full shader-node editor, so for complex material changes, re-export a clean GLTF from Blender or Substance 3D.

Can I animate A23D 3D models in After Effects?

Yes. Imported A23D models appear as 3D model layers and can be animated using standard transform properties: Position, Scale, Rotation, and Opacity.

Which renderer should I use for A23D models?

Use the Advanced 3D renderer. It is the modern path for imported 3D model layers with Adobe Standard Material, multiple shadow-casting lights, environment lights, and ray-traced reflections. Set it under Composition > Composition Settings > 3D Renderer. The legacy Classic 3D and Cinema 4D renderers do not provide the same PBR workflow for imported models.

Can I use A23D Decals in After Effects?

Yes. For 2D compositing, download the Baked PNG decals from A23D, import it into After Effects as a footage item, and place it as a layer above the shot or model layer. Use blending modes, masking, or track mattes as needed to integrate the decal into the composition. For a decal that sticks to 3D geometry, bake or model the decal into the GLTF package before import, then composite or animate the final 3D layer in After Effects.

What texture resolution should I use for After Effects compositions?

For most motion graphics, use 2K textures to keep RAM previews responsive while staying sharp at HD/UHD output sizes. Use 4K only for hero close-ups, and 1K for distant or background elements to preserve smooth playback.