While Photoshop doesn't directly open native SketchUp (.skp) files, you can easily import a 3D model that has been exported from SketchUp into a compatible format. The key is to use Photoshop's Import 3D Model feature.
Importing Your SketchUp Model into Photoshop
Once you have exported your SketchUp model into a format that Photoshop can read (like .OBJ, .DAE, .3DS, etc.), you can bring it into your Photoshop project by following these simple steps:
- Go to 'File' in the main menu.
- Select 'Import' from the dropdown options.
- Choose '3D Model'. This opens a file browser window.
- Navigate to the location where you saved your exported SketchUp file and select it.
- Click Open.
Photoshop will start importing the model, which may take a moment depending on the complexity of your design.
Once the model is loaded, it will appear in your Photoshop document as a 3D layer, and you can start editing it within Photoshop. This allows you to integrate your 3D designs with 2D imagery, apply textures, adjust lighting, and render different views.
The Process at a Glance
Here is a quick overview of the import steps:
| Step Number | Action | Menu/Option | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Access Menu | File | Start here |
| 2 | Choose Action | Import | Select this from the dropdown |
| 3 | Specify Type | 3D Model | Choose the specific import type |
| 4 | Locate File | File Browser | Navigate to your exported model |
| 5 | Select & Open | Click File, then Open | Load the model into Photoshop |
Remember, the crucial first step before importing into Photoshop is exporting your 3D model from SketchUp in a compatible format. Photoshop CS6 Extended and later versions typically support various 3D formats suitable for this process.
