Trapcode Tao

Introduction

Trapcode Tao generates 3D geometries along paths. It can use masks, motion paths from AE’s 3D lights, or generate its own paths. Along the path, Tao places “segments.” Segments may be an n-gon shape extruded to create a single geometry along the path, or segments can be spheres or n-gons repeated along the path.

Spheres repeated along a path.

Paths can repeat in many different ways using Tao's two repeaters. The whole repeated structure can then be furtherdisplaced with a noise fractal. There are many options for setting up materials and lighting. Tao can use AE’s built-in lights, and it also has image-based lighting, wherein spherical environment maps light the scene very quickly and with great results. Tao also features some built-in environments for convenience.

Tao illuminated with lighting in AfterEffects.