The process of combining multiple visual elements, live-action footage, CGI, graphics, and backgrounds, into a single seamless image.
CompositingThe process of combining multiple visual elements, live-acti… is how you put an artist on a virtual set, add digital fire to a practical shot, or blend two different pieces of footage into one. It is the technical backbone of most VFXVisual effects: any effect added to footage in post-producti… work in music videos.
Compositing in the real world
A-ha’s TakeA single recorded attempt at a shot or scene. Multiple takes… On Me (1985), directed by Steve Barron, combined pencil-sketch animation and live-action footage through rotoscoping, a form of compositingThe process of combining multiple visual elements, live-acti… where animators trace over live footage frame by frame. The process was painstaking and time-consuming, requiring animators to trace every frame where the real actor appeared in the animated world. The video won six MTV VMAs and has been viewed over one billion times on YouTube.
Related terms
VFXVisual effects: any effect added to footage in post-producti…, VFX SupervisorThe specialist who oversees all visual effects work, plannin…, Colour gradeThe creative process of applying a stylised look to the vide…, Animated videoA video made entirely with animation, whether that is 2D han…, Picture lockThe point in post-production when the edit is fully approved…