Home > Compositing CG Elements

Aaron Eaton

Visual Effects Supervisor at Cantina Creative

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Compositing CG Elements

See how you can apply CG elements, shadows and other effects for adding realism to your composition. You’ll also be adding 3D elements to learn how to use the 3D tools in After Effects.

Download Project files

Learning Outcomes:

  • Create CG astronauts using multiple passes
  • Utilize puzzle mats for effective compositing
  • Adjust lighting and shadows for realism

Level: Advanced

Skills you'll gain:

After Effects, Compositing, 3D Modeling, Color Correction

Key Insights

  • Combine beauty render with individual passes for control.
  • Use additive blending mode for reflections and specular.
  • Employ shift channels to isolate areas in puzzle mats.
  • Track matting allows for precise alpha creation.
  • Adjust shadow intensity to match scene lighting.
  • Utilize environment lights for realistic 3D object illumination.
  • Generate HDRIs from existing plates for enhanced lighting.
  • Implement camera lens blur for depth of field effects.
  • Balance colors and shadows for natural integration.
  • Use layer styles for subtle highlights on 3D objects.

This summary is AI generated

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