The classic Ctrl that doesn't obey 🤦♂️
Welcome to the wonderful world of 3D! Where sometimes the tools do exactly the opposite of what we expect. Your problem is more common than you think and has a simple solution.
Why do objects duplicate?
What’s happening is that:
- In Cinema 4D, Ctrl + drag normally duplicates objects
- The tutorial seems to refer to a special behavior with hierarchies
- There’s probably a misunderstanding in the explanation or in the software version
🚨 First rule of 3D: When something doesn’t work as in the tutorial, check if you’re using the same software version. Shortcuts can change.
Correct solution for moving child objects
To move only a child object without affecting the parent:
- Select only the child object in the viewport or in the manager
- Use the normal move tool (without Ctrl)
- If you need to move it freely without hierarchical restrictions, try Alt + G (temporarily releases the relationship)
Fun fact: In some older versions of Cinema 4D, the function mentioned in the tutorial existed, but it was changed because it caused a lot of confusion (like you’re experiencing now).
Recommended settings for beginners
To avoid these problems:
- Check the shortcuts in Edit > Preferences > Keyboard
- Consider resetting to default values
- Look for tutorials updated to your version of Cinema 4D
💡 Pro tip: Use the layer system to better control which objects move and which don’t, instead of relying only on hierarchies.
The initiation rite of every 3D artist
Don’t worry, we’ve all been through this. It’s like an initiation rite:
- Thinking we broke the software
- Discovering it was a simple misunderstanding
- Laughing at ourselves afterwards
And remember: if today it frustrates you that objects duplicate, wait until you discover the weight painting problems or the UVs... but that’s a story for another day. 😅
"3D isn’t hard, it just has a learning curve... vertical" - Every 3D artist after their first week.