Transform ordinary text into dynamic 3D visuals using Photoshop's 3D workspace. This tutorial will guide you through creating stunning typographic effects, adding captivating depth and realism to your designs.

You'll learn to build foundational 3D shapes and refine them with Photoshop's compositing tools, combining 3D extrusion precision with artistic freedom for polished, professional results.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial

Video by Texturelabs. Any links or downloads mentioned by the creator are available only on YouTube

Integrating Photoshop's 3D and Compositing Workflows

Photoshop's 3D workspace, though often overlooked, can transform 2D text into extruded 3D forms. While not a dedicated 3D rendering program like Cinema 4D or Blender, it offers accessible tools for impactful 3D typography.

Its strength lies in combining initial 3D extrusion with Photoshop's traditional compositing tools. This hybrid approach, using layers, masks, and adjustments, allows for precise control over textures, lighting, and effects, ensuring the final image aligns with your creative vision.

  • Utilizing Photoshop's 3D workspace for text extrusion.
  • The hybrid workflow that combines 3D and traditional compositing.
  • Adjusting material properties like metallic and roughness for surface quality.
  • Applying Image-Based Lighting (IBL) for natural illumination and reflections.
  • Generating matte layers to create precise masks for targeted adjustments.

Useful Tips for Crafting 3D Text Effects

  • Prepare your text layers: Use live type or shape layers for optimal scaling and detail preservation when converting to 3D. Converting type to a shape layer allows for precise stroke control.
  • Combine 3D objects efficiently: After extruding individual text elements, use the Merge 3D Layers command to place them into a single 3D environment, simplifying scene management.
  • Customize materials and lighting: Adjust properties like base color, metallic, and roughness on individual materials. Experiment with Image-Based Lighting (IBL) for natural reflections and an infinite light source for directional shadows.
  • Save camera views: Utilize the Save View option in the camera settings to quickly return to preferred angles after navigating the 3D space, preventing accidental changes.
  • Generate mattes for compositing: Before rasterizing your final render, create a separate render with flat black and white materials to generate precise masks. These mattes allow for targeted adjustments using levels or hue/saturation layers.

More Tutorials about 3D Text Effects

Explore additional resources to further enhance your skills in creating captivating 3D text.

Colorful Painted 3D Text Effect Tutorial in Photoshop
In this tutorial by Angelo Konofaos, you'll explore how to create a 3D-style text effect in Photoshop, alongside techniques like adding shadows, highlights, shines, and colors. Utilizing a variety of Photoshop tools such as the Mixer Brush, Pen Tool, clipping masks, and adjustment layers, the tutorial demonstrates the process of refining text to achieve a polished and dimensional look. For optimal results, Konofaos recommends using a pen tablet like the Wacom Intuos to enhance precision and fl
Cartoon 3D Text Effect in Photoshop
In this tutorial from PhoTuts, you'll discover how to create a colorful and playful cartoon-style 3D text effect in Photoshop, using basic techniques. The tutorial not only guides you through the steps to design vibrant and fun text that stands out, but also includes the font used in the tutorial available for download. This ensures you can easily follow along and replicate the dynamic, eye-catching effects, making it ideal for injecting a sense of whimsy and creativity into your designs. Wat
Creating a 3D Glowing Text Effect in Photoshop
Adding depth and luminosity to text can transform a simple design into something visually striking. The combination of 3D extrusion and glow effects creates text that appears to leap off the page, making it perfect for logos, headers, and eye-catching graphics. This tutorial demonstrates how to build a complete 3D text effect with glowing elements using Smart Objects and layer effects. The technique covers everything from creating dimensional text to applying multiple glow layers for enhanced v
Colorful Glossy and Shiny 3D Text Effect in Photoshop
In this Envato Tuts+ tutorial, Monikazza Grubena demonstrates how to create a glossy text effect in Photoshop using the layer style panel. The tutorial is straightforward and efficient, ideal for both beginners and experienced users. Monikazza explains the process clearly, making it easy to follow along and replicate the effect on your own projects. The tutorial also highlights the value of Envato Elements, which offers a wide range of professional shiny and glossy text effects, along with othe

Thanks for Reading — Want More Like This?

Subscribe to the Photoshop Roadmap newsletter for more expert tutorials and insights delivered directly to your inbox.