What's the best way to make things appear to float?

[FilmBoy77]

what is the best way to make small objects appear to float? sort of like if a character has a special power where they can move objects with their mind?

i am writing a script where these things will happen subtly throughout.

for example, in a classroom setting, what would be the best way to portray an eraser lifting up and erasing something written on the chalkboard as the teacher stands in the shot and watches?

[Casalen]

Monofilament lit correctly or composite image. Depends exactly what you need to float and how extensively in each case.

If you actually have to see the board getting erased you'll have to devise some kind of composite setup, possibly just to change from erased to not (since you can't put the pressure on without being behind the eraser).

[drk3p]

Hover boards

[drk3p]

Set 1

2 Shots, one with writing on board, one with out.
Mask/key/still frame the eraser from a shot of it.
Move it aroudn the board and mask out the writing to the after footage

Set 2

2 Shots as above
Grab a green or blue pole/stick/ruler, glue the eraser on it and mask/key out the pole and move it around for more organic movement

Set 3
Same as above, person holding the eraser masked out.

Set 4
CGI