Video Copilot releases Element 3D V2.2
Video Copilot has released Element 3D V2.2, its latest update to the GPU-accelerated tool for rendering 3D models and particles within After Effects, adding new options for working with grouped objects.
Mirror and export grouped objects, or apply reflections to groups
The first of those features is the option to apply symmetry to groups of objects. The resulting copies are instanced, reducing processor overheads and enabling updates to be applied globally.
Group folders can be saved as Element 3D’s .e3d project files; or the grouped geometry exported as an OBJ file. Grouped objects can also have dynamic reflections applied to them globally.
There are also a number of new options for blending a rendered 3D object into a live-action backplate, including the option to generate Matte Reflection and Matte Shadow elements, the latter with an alpha channel.
Other new features include improved support for Cinema 4D files, including animation; and updates to the UI to improve performance.
Pricing and availability
Element 3D V2.2 is now shipping for After Effects CS5 and above on Windows 7+ and Mac OS X 10.7+. The update is free to registered users; new licences of the software cost $199.95.