While many of you use set.a.light 3D to master the art of the still image, the app is also a powerful engine for cinematic pre-visualization and planning.
For those working with our Cinema license, we've introduced a modular Rail System designed to help you pre-plan complex camera movements with physical accuracy.
Even if you primarily shoot stills, understanding how to build a path for a moving camera is a fantastic way to start experimenting with the animation axes.
Here is how to build your first professional camera run:
Step 01: Build Your Path
Instead of a single "prop," the Rail System is a modular kit found in your Equipment library.
- Base Rail: Find the base module in your Equipment library and place it onto the set.
- Placement: The rail unit in the studio serves as your starting point. Now the customization starts.
- On-Stage Controls: Once selected, a quick menu appears directly on the rail. No need to go back to the side menu.
- Shape Your Track: Use the three arrows (left, straight, right) to instantly toggle between straight TR segments and curved CR segments. You can even adjust the section length right there in the meter field.
- Extend & Duplicate: Click the + Icon ("Add Segment") to snap a new segment to your path, or use the ++ Icon to duplicate your current selection instantly.
- Save Your Sets: Built your perfect rail track? Save your custom track configuration to "My Library" to use in future projects.
Step 02: Snap Your Camera
Next, choose your "eyes" for the scene.
- Camera Selection: Select your preferred camera from the Equipment tab — whether it's a standard Photo Camera or one of the four professional Cine Cameras (like the RED KOMODO or Blackmagic URSA).
- The Snap Logic: Move your camera near the rails, and it will automatically snap onto the rail system. By default, any camera will mount on its standard tripod.
Step 03: Choose Your Rig & Positioning
This is where it gets cinematic. You aren't limited to a tripod on rails; you can upgrade your "vehicle" to match a real-world film set.
- Rig Selection: With your camera selected, go to the Rigs menu in the LHB.
- Pro Gear: Swap the standard tripod for a professional Dolly.
- Ready to Roll: Your camera is now mounted on a heavy-duty film dolly, ready for precise movement.
- Precision Positioning: To slide the entire rig along the rails with mathematical precision, use the Rail Position slider in the Transform section of the LHB. This is how you precisely define the position of your shot.
Have fun trying it out,
Dan from elixxier
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