Integrating stock footage with 3D renders can help sell the realism of otherwise plain 3D rendering but compositing 2D stock footage with 3D renders can be challenging. Especially when you want 2D Elements like fire or smoke to exist in the same space as the 3D renders instead of simply comping them on top or behind.
Depth Compositing is one answer that allows you to control where 2D objects appear in the depth of your 3D rendering. Basically this method allows parts of your 3D render to be in front and behind your 2D Footage.
Does this even make sense? Just watch the video, it’s got Sam in it and a parking garage! One of them charges quarters for every 15 minutes and the was free!
The 3D was created in 3D Max using Rayfire. I’ll be making a more detailed tutorial as well! I’m really trying to make more short tutorials like this so people can get to helpful tips fast!
NOTE: Z-Passes can be generated automatically in a 3D Program when rendering.