How do I create 3D mockup images of my CNC projects for social media and marketing using VCarve Pro & Aspire’s Save Shaded Image?

VCarve Pro and Aspire can save an image of the 3D view with a transparent background, which you can then composite into lifestyle photos or room scenes using free tools. This lets you showcase a finished CNC project without ever cutting the piece, which is useful for client previews, social media content, or marketplace listings.

Steps

1. Design your project and view it in the 3D view
2. Turn off the shaded background: Edit > Options > Use Shaded Background = No
3. Go to View > Save Shaded Image and choose PNG as the file type. With the shaded background off, the PNG is saved with a transparent background.
4. Take the PNG into a free image compositing tool:

• Canva (free): drag your PNG onto a lifestyle photo background
• Adobe Express (free tier)
• Photoshop, GIMP, or Photopea (free online)

5. Place the CNC piece image onto a room photo, wood table, wall scene, or any background
6. Adjust shadows, scale, and placement to make it look realistic
7. Export the final image for Instagram, Facebook, your website, or your marketplace listing

Make it look like it’s resting on a surface

• Add a soft contact shadow right under the piece (closest edge = darkest, fades out quickly).
• Match the photo’s light direction: move the shadow opposite the brightest side.
• Add a subtle drop shadow (more blur, lower opacity) for depth if needed.
• Slightly darken the piece where it “touches” the surface (a tiny gradient) to sell the contact.
• Optional: add a very light reflection on glossy surfaces (blurred, 5 to 15% opacity).

Why This Works

• You can show customers what a piece will look like in their home BEFORE you cut it
• It reduces photography time, since you don't need to paint, sand, or photograph the real piece
• Backgrounds with proper shadows look convincing and professional
• Great for getting client approval before committing to a costly cut

Pro Tips

• Set the material appearance in the 3D view to resemble your real material before saving the image
• In the 3D view, rotate the model to the best angle before saving
• Use Canva’s shadow effect or Photoshop’s drop shadow to make the piece look like it belongs in the scene