How to Get Out of 3D Mode in Photoshop

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to get out of 3D mode in Photoshop. Whilst in 3D mode, your layer will not appear correctly as it still needs to be rendered into an image first, so we'll explain that process here.

If you prefer to follow along with a video tutorial, here's a quick video from the Envato Tuts+ YouTube channel you can't miss:

What You'll Learn in This Photoshop Tutorial

In this tutorial, I'll teach you how to get out of 3D Mode in Adobe Photoshop. Topics we cover will include:

How to reset the workspace to its default setting
How to render a 3D layer
How to convert the rendered 3D layer into a smart object

1. How to Reset the Workspace to the Default

Step 1

So you've just finished your 3D project in Adobe Photoshop, and you're ready to learn how to turn off 3D mode in Photoshop and continue working as you would normally. In this tutorial, I'll take you through how to exit 3D mode in Photoshop.

Step 2

In 3D mode, the workspace is almost completely different, and you will need to get out of 3D mode in Photoshop in order to use tools as you normally would, such as the brush tool, the type tool, the paint bucket tool, etc.

The viewport also completely changes as it displays gridlines, a 3D gizmo, and 3D navigational tools. So let's begin to learn how to get out of 3D mode in Photoshop!

Step 3

To exit 3D mode, first navigate to Window > Workspace > Essentials (Default) to reset your Adobe Photoshop workspace back to the default.

2. How to Render the 3D Layer

Step 1

Now, to remove all the 3D options such as the navigation tools and grid, you need to right-click on the 3D layer and select Render 3D Layer. The rendering might take a while, but you can stop it at any time by pressing the Escape key.

Step 2

After the rendering is finished, right-click the 3D layer, and choose Convert to Smart Object. This will prevent any accidental changes to the 3D layer. And that's how you exit 3D mode in Photoshop!

Awesome! You've Learned How to Get Out of 3D Mode in Photoshop

Now that you have learned how to exit 3D mode in Photoshop, you can continue working on your image or text as you would normally. I hope you found this tutorial on how to turn off 3D mode in Photoshop helpful and that you've learned some new tips and tricks that you can use for your own projects. See you next time!

Top 5 3D Graphics From Envato Elements

Now that you are familiar with how to get out of 3D mode in Photoshop, why not fill your project with some more 3D assets from Envato Elements? Here are five of my favourites.

3D Text Effects Vol.1 (PSD)

This product showcases a wide variety of 3D text effects that you can use for Adobe Photoshop. It works well with any font or shape and is extremely easy to use, featuring ten PSD files that are all well organised and fully editable.

Art Scene 3D Character Illustration (PNG, PSD)

If you're looking for a 3D art style to use for your project, here's a 3D character painter illustration that you can use. This art scene includes a PNG transparent file so that you can easily import it into your projects with any background.

3D Logo Mockup (JPG, PSD)

This classy paper logo mockup is a great way to present your 3D logos and designs. Simply place your designs with smart objects and then change the colour of the background to suit your liking.

3D Neon Logo Mockup (PSD, JPG, PDF)

If you're looking for something a bit flashy, check out this 3D Neon Logo mockup. This realistic-looking template is a great way to present your logo designs, texts, and shapes. Simply put your logo design in the smart object and save!

3D Infographic Chart (AI, EPS, PDF)

Here we have an infographic mockup which makes use of some 3D graph elements. All items in this product are 100% fully editable and for use with Adobe Illustrator.

Discover More Tutorials and Resources

I hope you've enjoyed this tutorial on how to exit 3D mode in Photoshop. If you'd like to learn more cool 3D Photoshop and Illustrator skills, we've got more tutorials for you: