One of the things I like to do is take something that exists in the real world and try to recreate it digitally. In this example, I extracted the helicopter on the right and replaced it with my helicopter. The key was matching the lighting, color, blur, and grain of the original shot. What is really great about this technique is having a reference for what things are supposed to look like. Then when you are working on a 100% CG shot you will have the proper chops... I mean skills to get it done. These kind of excercises will give you that real world experience needed to become a great compositor.

UPDATE 2: For no reason here is a snow version. The actual scene takes place on a busy freeway...

Watch Snow Version

UPDATE: I can't publish anything from the actual project but here is a quick animated version. The turn is a little hard but the comp is at 30fps instead of 24.

Watch Video.

I've been pretty consumed lately with a fun project for a client and thought I would share a still frame. Basically it is an action sequence with this attack helicopter, millions of particles and debris.

I actually remember my first helicopter sequence that I made for a personal project at least 7 years ago... Basically there was a missile fired at a car and to avoid impact the driver (myself) rolled down the 2 back windows and the missile passed right through as destruction was averted. I should look for that video and see how it compares today, It's Probably way better.

Goes to show you that experiments and testing can be a great way to grow your understanding and skills. So, when that big project comes along you will have SOME actual experience. You never know what things you may learn along the way.

Here is a great site where you can watch intro title sequences for feature films. Get ready to be inspired!

https://artofthetitle.com/

Be sure to check out our forum for other inspirational links or post some of our own.
https://www.videocopilot.net/forum/viewforum.php?f=12

In this new tutorial you'll learn a quick way to cast 3D shadows onto live action footage. This method is sometimes referred to as: Matte Shadow, which will be a subject in the future as it also pertains to 3D animation composting. Free tutorials can also be discussed in our new online forum.

Watch Tutorial

Welcome to the new Video Copilot Version 4. Probably the most impressive update so far and now the new site is more organized and scalable for the future additions. We've added great new features that should make your experience more enjoyable. Thanks for making this all possible you guys are awesome!

TOP 10 FEATURES:

10. Wider Screen Interface
With the average screen size 1280 X 1024, it's about time we fill it

9. Integrated RSS Feeds
Stay up to date by subscibing to our blog RSS and Tutorials Feed

8. Dedicated Tutorial Server
Tutorial playback speeds should be greatly improved

7. Better Support and FAQs
Get answers to easy questions

6. Better Organized Content and Resources
With the new sub-navigation, it's easier to get what you need

5. Super Search
Top left search will give you a dynamic real-time search. Try it.

4. Rollover Video Thumbnails
See a sample video for each tutorials before watching

3. New Forum
Now we can all share information and ideas with ease

2. Blog Now Shows the Time!
This is pretty much the best new feature, hands down.

1. 15% Coupon valid through Tuesday August 5th, 2008
Valid on all products and bundles. Use Coupon Code: "VC4"