Shallow depth of field in POST

[Dingles]

http://www.vimeo.com/1314925

I've been playing with two techniques to create depth of field in post (After Effects). Above is a sample of one of the techniques utilizing track mattes, motion tracking, and expressions to create a rack focus effect. The plus side about this technique is it really doesn't add much to rendering time. The other technique i am working on produces more dynamic results, but you take a huge rendering hit. This technique utilizes motion tracking, custom depth maps, and the lens blur filter.

footage above was shot with HVX200.

[Fliques Osman]

The rack focus looked nice!

Just checked out your site. Looking forward to the tutorials for DOF in AE.

Keep up the good work.

-manymoosh

[Dingles]

Thank you.

[finchy]

there is a really good tutorial on video co-pilot

[Dingles]

Yeah I've seen that...this isn't the same technique. On Video Co-pilot Andrew uses depth map with the lens blur effect...which also works well but offers different results and different control.

[Dingles]

Here is a new test I feel is superior to the previous ones. This is using the masking techniques connect to expression sliders, but I used a matte choker to soften and blend the blurred edges...I'm very pleased with the results! I will work out a video tutorial when time permits.

http://vimeo.com/1429706

[Anhar Miah]

Fairly well done, not bad. I should point out that a tracked depth map is not a new technique.

It has limitations such as very complex shapes (i.e would require a lot of effort to make maps for these) and also Moving boundaries (eg people characters, as the maps would have to be animated, even more time).

[Dingles]

Thank you. I did not use a depth matte for the last technique and never said it was a new technique. I find them most useful when working with 3D brought into AfterEffects where I can render a depth matte seperatly...I have tested custom depth mattes, but have abandoned them for reasons you stated and I find I can get more control with masking, blurs, expressions, and expression controls.