In this how-to video, we will take a look at an easy method to create 3D text in After Effects without using any third-party plugins.

Earlier, there was no in-built After Effects tool that could convert a text layer into a 3D Bevel and Extrude effect. To solve this, Video Copilot came up with the Element 3D plugin that could convert any 2D layer into 3D.

However, Element 3D is a third-party plugin that you need to purchase separately. Also, it costs $200 which is quite expensive if you just want to use it for creating 3D text.

But, there is a workaround that lets you create 3D text in After Effects without any plugins.

After Effects has an in-built effect called the Shatter Effect. Its job is simple – Shatter and Break anything and everything you apply it on.

But you can also use the Shatter Effect to create 3D text in After Effects. And, on top of that, you can create a camera layer to pan, move, zoom, or animate the text in 3D space.

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