Effect question

[BradFu]

Does anyone out there know how to effect a shot so that the edges are blurry, but the center is still in focus? I tried to combine a circle shape with a motion blur and then tried to superimpose it all, but it didn't work out.

I'm using Xpress Pro 4.5, so perhaps my effect palette is limited.

[Neil Rowe]

generally its done by placing a circular mask on the image and blurring the area outside the mask and using a mask feather to make the transition more gradual and smooth. AE would do it nicely for you.

[BradFu]

Thanks Neil. I'll try it when I get home.

...........although, where do you start? I'm not sure where to get a mask where I can manipulate the shape.

[grinner]

defocus the clip on layer one, put the same clip on layer two and add a PIP effect (from blend)
Make it's scale 100%, crop the edges in a bit and soften the border.

[BradFu]

Thanks Grin. I'll see if that's possible. Xpress Pro is stripped down on what effects can be done.

[grinner]

I know.
What I listed can be done in it quicky and easily in Xpress Pro.
I use animatte for this but ya aint got that.

[BradFu]

Outstanding, soldier.

Okay, I feel like a total rookie! How do you defocus an entire track on, say, V1?

When I use Symphony at work, I think I know how to promote to 3D, then depending on the effect, there are 'defocus' options, but at home, I've tried doing that using 'Mask' under my effect palette, but I can't promote it to 3D. Same with 'circle wipe' and a few others. There just doesn't seem to be a way to cut out video. The paint effect would be useful here............

Any step-by-steps you could throw my way?

Thanks for your help bro!

[grinner]

same way as on the symphony.
Just apply your resize effect, promote it to 3D and defocus to your liking.
V2 is where you'll mask out the edges. Again, just use a PIP effect with it's scale at 100%, crop the edges and soften the border.

[BradFu]

Thanks Grinner!

I'll go home and try it. Don't be surprised if I write back with more questions...........