3D backgrounds
Navigate a model and save its starting view
Where
3D canvas controls and 3D settings
Control orbit, pan, zoom, the model’s pivot and the first view visitors see.
Steps
- Drag to orbit; use Toggle pan mode when you want to move the view instead.
- Use plus, minus, Reset view and Top view as needed.
- In 3D settings, choose Pick orbit centre on model and click the intended pivot, or Use model centre.
- Adjust minimum and maximum pitch to limit the camera angle.
- Frame the model and choose Save current view as starting view.
- Enable Gently zoom toward clicked points if wanted, then publish.
Expected result
The background stores camera limits, pivot and its opening camera. Point focus moves smoothly at a consistent distance.
Tips and limits
Pitch is measured above the horizon. Changing the pivot is a camera operation, not moving model geometry. Check a range of points to ensure the saved view and focus behaviour suit the model. To hide obscured markers in the public 3D viewer, use Hide points behind model in 3D Settings and publish. It is off by default; editor points remain visible. The check uses the label/marker endpoint and hides the complete marker and leader. It is geometry-based, not pixel-perfect transparency testing.
Optional idle orbit
In 3D settings → Idle orbit, enable automatic orbiting after a period without visitor interaction. It is off by default.
- Idle delay defaults to 15 seconds; choose 5–300 seconds.
- Orbit speed defaults to 3 degrees per second; choose 0.5–15.
- Return to the saved starting view before orbiting is enabled by default and can be turned off.
The feature runs in Preview and the public viewer, never while editing. Interaction stops it and restarts the full delay. Held pointers, open cards/lightboxes and filters pause it. Hidden browser tabs and reduced-motion preferences prevent movement.
Effect on the published viewer
Camera and idle-orbit configuration are draft until published; ordinary navigation is temporary.