3D Text | Photoshop

Introduction

Creating stunning 3D text in Photoshop can elevate your design projects significantly. In this article, we will guide you step-by-step on how to achieve this effect using the software's built-in 3D features. Follow the instructions below to create your own 3D text.

Step 1: Set Up Your Document

1. Open Photoshop and create a new document.
2. Set the dimensions to 1920 by 1080 pixels, and ensure the color mode is set to RGB with a white background. Click "Create."

Step 2: Create Your Text

1. Activate the Type Tool from the toolbar.
2. Click on the color box to select your desired text color.
3. Type out the word "DESIGN" in all capital letters. Adjust the font size to be large enough for visibility.
4. With the Move Tool, center your text on the canvas by aligning it with the background.

Step 3: Convert Text to 3D

1. In the Layers panel, right-click on your text layer and select "New 3D Extrusion from Selected Layer."
   • Note: If this option is greyed out, ensure your document is in RGB color mode and that your graphics card meets minimum requirements for Photoshop's 3D features.
2. When prompted, confirm to switch to the 3D workspace.

Step 4: Merge Layers

1. In the Layers panel, right-click on the background layer.
2. Hold down the Shift key and click on the text layer to select both.
3. Release the Shift key, then press Ctrl + E (or Command + E on Mac) to merge the layers.

Step 5: Customize Your 3D Text

1. Open the 3D Panel and click on the text layer, labeled "DESIGN."
2. In the Properties panel, select a shape preset that you like (e.g., "Bevel Frame").

Step 6: Add Lighting

1. Go back to the 3D Panel and click to add a new Infinite Light.
2. Adjust the position of the light by clicking and dragging.
3. In the Properties panel, modify the light source color, its intensity, and adjust the shadow softness using the provided slider.

Step 7: Render the Scene

1. After setting up your text and lighting, click the render button.
2. A time estimate for the rendering process will be shown. Wait for the render to complete.

Step 8: Final Adjustments

1. Once rendering is complete, navigate to the Layers panel, right-click the layer again and choose "Convert to Smart Object."
2. Change your workspace back to Essentials using the dropdown menu.
3. You can now add adjustment layers for color grading or any other effects to achieve the desired look for your 3D text.

By carefully following these steps, you'll be able to create impressive 3D text graphics in Photoshop.

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Keywords

3D text, Photoshop, Type Tool, RGB color mode, text layer, Infinite Light, rendering, adjustment layers.

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FAQ

Q1: Why is the "New 3D Extrusion from Selected Layer" option greyed out?
A1: This usually happens if your document is not in RGB color mode or if your graphics card does not meet the minimum requirements for Photoshop's 3D features.

Q2: How can I customize the light source in my 3D text?
A2: You can adjust the color and intensity of the light source in the Properties panel after adding a light to your scene.

Q3: What is the importance of converting the layer to a Smart Object?
A3: Converting the layer to a Smart Object allows you to make non-destructive edits, meaning you can adjust your 3D text without permanently altering the original layer.

Q4: Can I add more effects after rendering my 3D text?
A4: Yes, after rendering, you can add adjustment layers to enhance the appearance and achieve the desired look for your text.