The most useful headline treatments: layered 3D, gradient strokes, and mask effects.
Start with depth and color for 3D
3D text quality comes mostly from layered shadows. Tune depth first, then color, which is easier than jumping into complex parameters.
3D effects stand out more on dark backgrounds. On light backgrounds, reduce the layer count to keep it clean.
Keep gradient strokes readable
Gradient strokes work well on large headlines but blur at small sizes, so avoid them in body copy.
Keep contrast between the stroke and the background color, otherwise the text itself becomes hard to read.
Preview at the real size before exporting
Text effects look very different in thumbnails versus their actual size. Check at the real application size before exporting.
Image masks fit cover and avatar scenarios. Process them together when you need a consistent look.