Optics Essentials - Masking Using Selection MaskBoris FX Learn2026-09-19 | Optics Essentials - Masking Using Selection MaskStabilized and Inserted Fusion Output with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | This is the output of the "Exporting 360 VR to Fusion with SynthEyes" tutorial, featuring tracking data from SynthEyes. The point cloud is included, as shown in the Fusion viewports, allowing the tracking process to be visualized. For a viewer-ready version without the point cloud, refer to the Cloudless version of this file.Input for Fusion Stabilization and InsertionBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Input to the "Exporting 360 VR to Fusion" tutorial. Shot on a Ricoh Theta S, which has some built-in stabilization of its own, in Valley Forge, PA.Exporting 360 VR to After Effectss 3D Environment with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates a streamlined process for exporting 360VR footage to After Effects for planar insertions, such as screen and logo placements. Andersson begins by setting up planes and trackers in SynthEyes, then exports them to After Effects.
He explains the process step by step, including adjusting pivot points, exporting planes and trackers, and integrating them into the After Effects environment. Andersson addresses challenges like rolling shutter and optical flow-based stitching, noting the importance of stable camera platforms or global shutter for optimal results in 360VR footage.
Despite some limitations, the tutorial offers valuable insights for users seeking to enhance their After Effects workflow with 360VR content.Exporting 360VR from SynthEyes to After Effects 3D Environment, with Cinema 4DBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates the process of exporting 360 VR footage from SynthEyes to After Effects, including integrated export to Cinema 4D for 3D insertions. The Insta360 Pro 4K shot is tracked, solved, and stabilized beforehand. Andersson covers various aspects such as roto masking, tracker cleanup, coordinate system setup, stabilization, light setup, object insertion, shadow generation, and more.
The tutorial also details the export process to After Effects and Cinema 4D, adjustments needed in Cinema 4D for proper alpha channel handling, and final touches in After Effects before exporting with Adobe Media Encoder.Exporting 360 VR to Fusion with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson guides viewers through the process of exporting a 360 VR scene from SynthEyes to Fusion, focusing on coordinate system setup, and shadowing. Andersson starts with a solved scene, establishes a ground plane, and adjusts camera motion for VR viewing. He demonstrates the insertion of a 3D object, setup of shadow casting using a light tracker, and creation of a shadow catcher plane.
The tutorial concludes with exporting the scene to Fusion, where users can manipulate and render the 360 VR output. Andersson provides insights into optimizing the workflow and utilizing Fusion's capabilities for immersive VR experiences.Stereo Alignment Script in SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Russ Andersson demonstrates using a script in SynthEyes for automating manual alignment processes in stereo shots.
He sets up trackers on features in two images, runs the script, adjusts lens field of view estimates, and selects convergence points. The script aligns shots, equalizes sizes, and adjusts disparities, enabling easy stereo viewing.How to Manually Align Stereo Cameras in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he demonstrates the manual alignment of stereo cameras, showcasing techniques to fine-tune their setup for optimal convergence.
This video explores the use of Anaglyph stereo views to enhance visibility, detailed adjustments of camera settings, and precise alignment of image features. Learn how to handle common challenges like lens de-centering and disparities between views.
This guide is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in mastering stereo camera setup to improve their 3D tracking and visual effects capabilities.Exploring Anaglyph Stereo Views in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Russ Andersson introduces the process of viewing stereoscopic projects in 3D using anaglyph stereo views in SynthEyes. He demonstrates how to activate stereo display in the perspective panel, adjusting settings for optimal viewing with red and blue glasses.
Russ explains the importance of color selection for trackers to ensure visibility and depth perception. He also highlights the benefits of navigating scenes in full-screen mode for a more immersive experience.
Additionally, Russ showcases the versatility of this feature, applicable to both stereo and monocular shots, offering users a comprehensive view of their 3D environments.Motion Capture with Stereoscopic Shots in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he explores the unique capabilities of motion capture in stereoscopic shots using SynthEyes. This tutorial delves into the process of tracking dynamic movements of flexible objects, such as a swing, using just a pair of stereo trackers.
Learn how to establish a coordinate system, perform supervised tracking, and link trackers for accurate motion capture. Discover the intricacies of adjusting and refining tracking data to ensure precision in 3D path visualization and camera path analysis.
This guide is invaluable for VFX professionals seeking to enhance their skills in capturing complex movements in 3D environments efficiently.Automated Stereoscopic Object Tracking with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he demonstrates automated object tracking in stereoscopic shots using SynthEyes. Learn how to set up segmentation, create roto splines, assign moving objects, and run auto tracking for precise object tracking.
Follow along as Russ refines trackers, sets up coordinate systems, and solves for both camera and object motion.
Gain insights into handling stereo setups and resolving coordinate ambiguities for accurate tracking results in your projects.All-Far Tripod Stereoscopic Shots in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he explores the intricacies of handling stereoscopic shots with distant features in SynthEyes.
Discover techniques for tracker cleanup, setting up interocular distance, and overcoming challenges posed by distant scenes in stereo alignment.
Gain insights into navigating the unique characteristics of these shots and optimizing depth perception in your projects.SynthEyes Supervised Stereoscopic TrackingBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson in this tutorial as he delves into the intricacies of supervised stereoscopic tracking.
Russ provides step-by-step instructions for setting up supervised tracking in a stereo environment, emphasizing the importance of coordinating trackers between left and right cameras.
He demonstrates how to adjust SynthEyes viewports for efficient tracking, ensuring accurate alignment between the two camera views.Basic Automatic Stereoscopic Tracking and Solving with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he guides you through the automated tracking and solving capabilities of SynthEyes.
Learn how to set up stereo shots, perform automated tracking, and solve for camera motion in 3D space. Discover essential techniques for setting up coordinate systems, adjusting camera parameters, and refining solves for accurate results.
Explore the control panel for managing the relationship between cameras and optimizing tracking data. Enhance your understanding of stereo tracking fundamentals and unlock the full potential of SynthEyes for your projects.Advanced Stereo 3D Tracking and Workflow Optimization in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates the new stereo tracking features in SynthEyes 2011. He begins by showcasing how to align the left and right camera views in the center of the available area for better accuracy. Russ then introduces a quick method to create stereo tracker pairs by holding down the C key and clicking in both the camera and perspective views. He explains how settings and names are automatically cloned and adjusted between the tracker pairs. Russ also highlights the linked ZWT toggle for stereo pairs, enabling an instant solution for the estimated tracker position from a single frame. In the simul track window, he demonstrates how to set up simultaneous views of both trackers in a stereo pair, making it easier to verify tracker correspondence and duration across views. Russ concludes by discussing new display modes, including interlaced displays and luminance-based color anaglyphs, which enhance stereo project assessment. These features provide users with improved tools for accurate and efficient stereo tracking in SynthEyes 2011.Advanced Techniques in Simultaneous Object and Camera Tracking with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates the techniques for simultaneous object and camera tracking, using a dynamic scene featuring a moving truck as a case study.
This tutorial focuses on the integration of tripod mode for camera stability with advanced object tracking strategies. Russ showcases the process of creating and adjusting trackers on a moving truck and background elements to achieve precise motion tracking.
The session concludes with an application of the tracking data to simulate realistic particle effects and potential creative augmentations like adding a rock band to the truck.Mesh Match-Moving in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he demonstrates how to efficiently match-move an existing mesh into your shot using SynthEyes. Learn step-by-step how to set up a moving object shot, create and position a mesh, track corners of the object, and link them to corresponding positions on the mesh.
Discover the power of the place mode in the perspective view for precise positioning. With this robust process, even tripod-like shots can yield a full 3D solution.Tracking Flat Objects with SynthEyes for 2D and 3D Graphics IntegrationBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to track flat objects, like an iPad, in SynthEyes for adding 2D or 3D graphics. Russ explains the challenges of tracking flat objects due to their 2D nature and highlights the importance of providing SynthEyes with coordinates for accurate tracking. Using a mock iPad with strategically placed tracking points, Russ shows how to manually track each point, handle motion blur, and set coordinates. He emphasizes the use of additional points to prevent tracking loss when parts are obscured. The tutorial covers solving for object motion, creating lock points, and setting up a 3D coordinate system. Russ further illustrates how to align the entire scene for accurate gravity-based effects, ensuring the object integrates seamlessly with other elements. This detailed guide equips users to effectively track flat objects and integrate graphics for realistic and dynamic visual effects.Relative Scale of Object Tracks in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson explains the process of setting up coordinate systems for object tracking in SynthEyes. He demonstrates a scene with both a moving camera and a moving truck. Despite successfully tracking both, the truck appears misplaced in the scene due to a lack of proper coordinate system alignment. Russ emphasizes the necessity of establishing coordinate systems for both the camera and the moving object to ensure correct scaling and positioning. He guides viewers through selecting points on the truck to update its coordinate system and adjusting the object's scale in relation to the camera. By aligning the truck's trackers to the road level, the tutorial illustrates the importance of matching real-world scaling between camera and object tracks. This technique is crucial for achieving accurate and realistic object placement in 3D scenes.ViewShift: Extracting Animated Textures with SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he demonstrates the process of generating animated texture maps using ViewShift. Follow along as he navigates through an already solved shot, setting up a box to extract an animated texture from a specific area of a building.
Learn how to configure output settings, select file names, and adjust texture map sizes to suit your needs. Explore the generated image sequence and understand how to apply the animated texture map to 3D objects within SynthEyes.
Gain insights into incorporating animated texture maps into other applications and exporting them seamlessly for further use.SynthEyes ViewShift Mesh Control TutorialBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson explores the functionality of controlling ViewShift using meshes within SynthEyes. Andersson walks through the process step by step, emphasizing the use of meshes for removing objects from scenes.
He demonstrates selecting and setting up removal meshes, addressing challenges such as frame disjoint issues and mesh alignment discrepancies. Andersson also discusses the importance of accurate 3D models and lighting compensation techniques.
Throughout the tutorial, he provides practical insights into refining models and dealing with various artifacts.SynthEyes ViewShift IntroductionBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Russ Andersson introduces the ViewShift system in SynthEyes, a full 3D effect used for removing objects, combining split takes, and creating animated texture maps. In this tutorial, he focuses on removing a car from a shot using splines for control.
He explains the process of creating a reflector mesh, setting up splines, adjusting timing, and compensating for illumination changes.
The tutorial highlights the flexibility of ViewShift, its controls for edge blending and pixel replacement, and the potential for multiple phases in a scene.Creating a Panoramic Image with SynthEyes - Part 2Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to create and refine a panoramic background texture in SynthEyes. Starting with a handheld shot, Russ uses a cylindrical mesh to match the camera's field of view and performs texture extraction. He explains the importance of adjusting UV texture coordinates to utilize the entire texture space. After an initial extraction, he refines the resolution to 8K by 2K for higher detail. The tutorial highlights the benefits of averaging images to reduce compression artifacts and spackle noise, resulting in a high-quality panoramic texture. Russ provides tips for viewing and editing the texture in SynthEyes, ensuring the final image is suitable for printing or further effects work.Creating a Panoramic Image with SynthEyes - Part 1Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to create a panoramic background from a handheld camera shot in SynthEyes. He begins by performing a tripod solve to stabilize the shot and clean up bad trackers, achieving an initial solve with low pixel error. Russ then introduces the concept of using geometry to hold the background image, opting for a cylindrical mesh due to the camera's sweeping motion. He creates and adjusts the cylinder to match the camera's field of view, ensuring it covers the entire scene without overlapping. By increasing the resolution of the geometry and trimming unnecessary parts, he prepares the mesh for texture extraction. This setup allows for efficient creation of a panoramic background, suitable for further compositing and 3D work.Creating Clean Plates in SynthEyes - Part 3Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to finalize and export a composite scene to After Effects using SynthEyes. Building on the previous section where a car was isolated and tracked, Russ begins by refining the car's texture in Photoshop to remove the background and add shadows. He imports this edited texture back into SynthEyes, ensuring it aligns properly with the car's movement. Russ addresses a tracking error in the Graph Editor, smoothing out the car's motion. He then exports the scene to After Effects using the JavaScript exporter, explaining how to manage layers and textures within After Effects. This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to integrating SynthEyes-tracked elements into a composite workflow, enabling advanced compositing and animation in After Effects.Creating Clean Plates in SynthEyes - Part 2Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to create a clean background plate and generate a texture for a moving car in SynthEyes. After removing the car to create a clean plate, Russ uses a tracker on the car to animate a roto matte, allowing for effective auto tracking of the background. He then creates a moving object by setting a fixed distance from the camera and ensures it is correctly positioned in front of the backdrop. By generating a plane on this moving object, he extracts the car's texture, resulting in a clean background plate and a detailed texture map of the car. Russ explains various methods to refine the texture, including editing the alpha channel in an image editing program or within SynthEyes. This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to isolating moving objects and creating clean plates for advanced compositing tasks.Creating Clean Plates in SynthEyes - Part 1Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to create a clean background plate for a shot of a car driving down a road using SynthEyes. He begins by setting up a garbage matte around the car, using a tracker on the car to animate the matte. After tracking the car, Russ emphasizes the importance of deleting the tracker to avoid affecting the auto tracking process. He then performs auto tracking, cleans up the trackers, and generates a flat plane as the background. By adjusting the plane's size and position, he ensures it covers the entire field of view throughout the shot. Russ also addresses common issues such as unwanted vertical lines caused by black borders on the frame and explains how to use garbage mattes to exclude irrelevant data. The tutorial concludes with the creation of a clean background sequence, ready for further compositing work.SynthEyes Roto Mask for Texture ExtractionBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to use a roto mask in SynthEyes for cleaner texture extraction. Building on the previous section, he shows how to set up a roto mask as a blocker. Andersson starts by selecting trackers in the perspective window, creating a card, and adjusting its position. He then uses the texture panel to run an initial texture extraction. Switching to the camera view and roto panel, Andersson creates a mask around the tree, linking it to a tracker's path. When the tracker goes off-screen, he manually adjusts the mask to ensure continuity. After recalculating the texture with the mask blocking the unwanted areas, he showcases the cleaner texture result, although some areas may still need manual adjustment or painting. This tutorial highlights the practical use of roto masks in SynthEyes for handling complex scenes.SynthEyes Mesh Texture Extraction with Complex GeometryBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson continues the texture extraction tutorial, focusing on more complex geometry using SynthEyes. He demonstrates creating and aligning a box with a building corner, setting up texture extraction, and working with imported models with UV coordinates. Andersson highlights the importance of accurate alignment and shows the initial texture map results, addressing issues with unwanted texture areas. He explains how to edit the mesh, delete unnecessary faces, and clean up vertices, followed by rerunning the texture calculation. By cropping the texture coordinates, the used portion of the texture plane is expanded to maximize resolution. The tutorial showcases the textured box in the scene, emphasizing the flexibility of SynthEyes in handling complex geometry for texture extraction.Solving Long Shots by Segmenting and Stabilizing with SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Russ Andersson presents a tutorial on solving long shots in SynthEyes by segmenting them into manageable pieces and stabilizing them for smooth viewing. The tutorial covers various steps, including setting up pieces of the shot, adjusting trackers, cleaning up bad trackers, solving for 3D positions, and stabilizing the footage.
Andersson emphasizes the importance of segmenting the shot, cleaning up trackers in multiple passes, and refining the solution for optimal results. He also discusses the implications of camera stability and motion blur on the final output quality.Solving Long 360 VR Shots in One Piece with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this comprehensive tutorial, Russ Andersson explores the advanced algorithms and controls introduced in SynthEyes 18.06, specifically designed to expedite the solving process for long shots. Using a 17,700-frame 360 VR shot as an example, Andersson delves into crucial settings and techniques for optimizing solve times. From adjusting tracker counts per frame to managing RAM usage, he provides practical insights for efficient shot solving.
Andersson demonstrates tracker cleanup methods, troubleshooting solver stoppages, and leveraging advanced solver settings to achieve optimal results. Throughout the tutorial, he emphasizes the importance of artist intervention to address solver issues promptly, ensuring high-quality solutions.Stabilization Rig Creator in SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-17 | This tutorial by Russ Andersson explores advanced stabilization techniques using SynthEyes. Andersson demonstrates how to stabilize footage with and without a 3D solve, handle zooms and animated distortions, and export stabilized shots to downstream applications like After Effects and Blender.Track, Stabilize, and Export to Bentley Microstation with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he demonstrates the process of tracking, stabilizing, and exporting footage to Bentley Microstation using SynthEyes. Follow along as Russ navigates through auto tracking, coordinate system setup, stabilization, and exporting techniques to seamlessly integrate footage with Microstation models.
Learn how to refine trackers, adjust views, import models, and achieve a complete, independent workflow for your projects.Image Stabilization Techniques in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | Join Russ Andersson as he guides you through the advanced image stabilization features of SynthEyes. Starting with a basic auto track of a 16:9 DV shot from a helicopter, Russ demonstrates how to achieve precise stabilization by using 3D points for more accurate corrections. Learn how to manually adjust for unwanted rotational effects, utilize auto-scaling to avoid black edges, and adapt zoom levels for optimal image quality.
This tutorial also covers the possibilities of resampling for different output resolutions, providing a comprehensive look at practical stabilization techniques that can enhance any VFX workflow. Ideal for professionals looking to refine their skills in post-production stabilization using SynthEyes.Traveling Shot Image Stabilization Techniques with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-17 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson explores the filtering modes of a stabilization system using a real-world scenario of a car driving down a shaky road.
The tutorial demonstrates how to utilize the filtered stabilization mode to enhance video stability while the camera travels through a scene. Russ explains the significance of adjusting the cutoff frequency to manage vibration removal effectively, and concludes by showcasing the before and after stabilization effects.
For viewers interested in the technical details, the input and output versions of the stabilized shot are available for comparison on the web.Handling Focus Breathing using Lens Grids with SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-14 | Dive into the technical aspects of lens focus breathing with this tutorial focused on the behavior of an anamorphic Cook lens. Watch as we explore how the focus shifts from close range to infinity and observe the accompanying movement of a lens grid.
This video will guide you through the process of setting up and cleaning trackers, applying constraints, and solving the entire shot to understand focus breathing as a form of zoom change. We also tackle how to manage and potentially eliminate unwanted zoom effects, providing a practical demonstration on adjusting field of view and scaling parameters.
Ideal for those interested in the finer details of cinematography and visual effects, this tutorial offers a deep dive into the mechanics of lens focus breathing and its impact on film and video production.Anamorphic Distance in SynthEyes Explained [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-14 | Explore the new anamorphic distance feature in SynthEyes 2304 with this detailed tutorial. Learn about the optical characteristics of anamorphic lenses, such as differing nodal points for horizontal and vertical directions, and how these factors influence image sharpness and aspect ratio changes during focus pulls.
This video introduces a complex 3D solution needed for accurately depicting visual effects. SynthEyes 2304 now allows for the calculation and adjustment of anamorphic distance, crucial for aligning and animating 3D meshes and trackers in post-production accurately.
While complex, this feature is essential for achieving realistic effects in detailed VFX work involving anamorphic lenses.Lens Centering and Distortion with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-14 | Join Russ Andersson as he delves into the intricate world of lens centering and calibration. In this advanced tutorial, Russ explores the assumptions made by 3D applications about camera geometry and the realities of lens distortion.
Using a Canon HDC-SD9 camera as an example, Russ demonstrates how to identify lens distortion and determine the center of the optic axis.
Learn how to adjust distortion values and pad images to correct lens imperfections effectively. Gain insights into the relationship between distortion values and field of view, and discover techniques for generating corrected linearized output or recompositing with original footage.Using a Lens Preset in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-14 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates an end-to-end process for lens calibration and correction in SynthEyes. Starting with a raw shot from a GoPro in R5 mode, he explains how lens distortion corrupts the tracking solution. By reading a GoPro calibration sequence and running the auto tracker, Russ creates and saves a calibration preset. This preset includes lens data, zoom factors, and padding values, making it reusable for multiple shots. He applies the preset to the original shot, runs the auto tracker again, and achieves a significantly improved solution with minimal pixel error. This streamlined process highlights the importance and effectiveness of correcting lens distortion for accurate tracking.Lens Grid Auto-Calibration in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-14 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson explains how to generate lens presets in SynthEyes using a lens distortion grid. He demonstrates shooting the grid with a GoPro HD to capture fisheye distortion, creating a grid of trackers, and processing the image sequence. Russ covers both two-pass and single-pass workflows for creating lens presets, explaining the differences and applications of each. The two-pass workflow delivers distorted images and distorts CGI to match the original footage, while the single-pass workflow removes distortion directly. Russ details the analysis process, setting distortion coefficients, and ensuring accurate optic center calculation. He advises shooting calibration footage for each zoom setting to ensure post-production accuracy. For more details, users are encouraged to refer to the manual.Setting Up a Coordinate System Using Phases in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-11 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to use the phase system in SynthEyes to set up a coordinate system for a helicopter flyover shot of Philadelphia from Artbeats. Starting with a simple auto track and auto place, Russ cleans up the trackers and refines the solve. Using Google Maps, he identifies the orientation of Benjamin Franklin Parkway and aligns the coordinate system accordingly by selecting two trackers along the parkway and using the Set Heading phase. He then sets the origin using a single tracker and the Slide Phase, and adjusts the camera height based on known data using the Camera Height phase. Finally, he corrects the horizon line to match the real horizon using the Set Horizon phase and fine-tunes the adjustments. This tutorial showcases the flexibility of SynthEyes' phase system to create precise and accurate coordinate systems tailored to specific scenes.Setting Up a Coordinate System with Set Horizon Phases in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-11 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to use the phase subsystem in SynthEyes to set up a coordinate system for a shot of a ship sailing along a dock. Starting with an auto track, Russ identifies two distant trackers on a bridge to set the horizon. By making them zero-weighted far trackers, he ensures a solution for their positions. Russ then sets up phases, starting with a clean solve and configuring the set horizon phase using the selected trackers. He adjusts the pitch and roll to align the horizon accurately. To set the position, Russ uses a slide into position phase with a tracker in the parking lot as the origin. Finally, he adjusts the scaling using a tracker-to-tracker distance phase, setting a specific distance between two picket fence trackers. This flexible method allows Russ to create a coordinate system tailored to the scene's requirements. The tutorial highlights the various options in SynthEyes' phase subsystem to establish precise coordinate systems based on scene specifics.Handling Tripod Shots with SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-11 | Russ Andersson explains the use of tripod mode in SynthEyes, highlighting its importance for shots with no 3D information, such as static tripod or handheld nodal shots. Starting with a tripod shot of a small town, Russ demonstrates performing a normal auto solve, showing how it struggles due to lack of depth information. He then shows enabling tripod mode for accurate solving, resulting in a higher but more meaningful RMS error. Russ explains that all trackers in tripod mode are treated as "far trackers," located on a sphere's surface, making it easier to add objects into the scene. He demonstrates adding objects and adjusting their placement and size, emphasizing the challenges of adding multiple objects due to the lack of depth data. Russ also mentions advanced techniques like single frame alignment and using existing models to better position the camera. This tutorial provides essential tips for effectively using tripod mode to manage and enhance static shots in SynthEyes.SynthEyes Manual Alignment and Coordinate System SetupBoris FX Learn2024-10-11 | Russ Andersson demonstrates how to manually align a shot and set up a coordinate system in SynthEyes, particularly useful for natural scenes without clear reference points. Starting with an auto solve, Russ shows how to clean up and refine trackers. He then explains repositioning the entire scene using the "whole mode" to place a specific tracker at the origin. By adjusting the scene's orientation and ensuring the lock mode is off, he demonstrates tweaking the "up" direction and keeping the orientation stable using tracker locks. Russ details how to ensure these adjustments persist through subsequent solves by setting seed and lock points. This tutorial is invaluable for achieving precise manual alignment and maintaining it throughout your workflow.Using Distance Constraints in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-11 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson introduces the distance constraints feature in SynthEyes 2011, which helps reduce jitter in object tracking and camera-to-origin tracking. Starting with a snap zoom shot, Russ demonstrates an auto track and highlights the residual effect on the camera path due to various errors like camera distortion and tracker blur. By configuring the viewports to include a graph editor and top view, he identifies the step caused by the zoom in the field of view path. Russ then uses the distance constraint to smooth out this step by setting up desired distance values and enabling the constraint in the solver panel. This process ensures a smooth and accurate tracking path, eliminating jitter and other artifacts. The tutorial showcases how distance constraints can be used to maintain consistent distances between the camera and tracked objects or the origin, improving overall tracking quality.Auto-Place Button Tips and Techniques in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-11 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson explores the new capabilities of the place button in SynthEyes. He demonstrates how the place button can automatically determine a ground plane, sidewall, or back wall for your scene. By repeatedly pressing the place button, users can cycle through different coordinate system options. For more specific placements, Russ shows how to select specific trackers and use shift + place to focus the coordinate system. He also demonstrates how to link trackers with a defined distance to control the scene's overall size and manually adjust the scene alignment using the whole button in the 3D panel. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of checking surrounding trackers to ensure accurate object placement and avoid sliding. This feature provides both beginners and advanced users with flexible and precise control over scene setup.Find Erratic Trackers Tool in SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-08 | Russ Andersson introduces the "Find Erratic Trackers" tool in SynthEyes 1806, designed to automate the identification of moving objects in footage for efficient tracker cleanup. Andersson demonstrates how the tool analyzes tracker data statistically without solving the entire scene.
By adjusting parameters such as kernel size and accuracy, users can fine-tune the tool's performance. However, Andersson highlights limitations, including the inability to detect short-lived trackers and challenges posed by lens distortion and rolling shutter.
Despite these constraints, the tool offers significant time savings and enhanced accuracy in tracker cleanup tasks. Andersson concludes with insights into optimizing the tool's effectiveness and acknowledges its role in improving workflow efficiency.Using Random Tracker Colors in SynthEyes to Identify Tracking ProblemsBoris FX Learn2024-10-08 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson introduces a tool in SynthEyes designed to enhance the visualization of auto track results and identify potential issues. Using a shot with a repeating texture, he demonstrates how the Randomly Color Trackers script assigns different colors to each tracker, making it easier to see individual movements and identify problem areas. This method helps distinguish single trackers from multiple trackers and detect anomalies. Russ shows how the tool can also reveal gaps in tracking, suggesting areas where trackers should be combined for better consistency. The tutorial concludes with instructions on resetting trackers to their original colors, providing flexibility in managing tracker visibility. This tool aids artists in diagnosing and correcting tracking issues efficiently.Find Bad Trackers by Working in the Dark in SynthEyes [Boris FX SynthEyes]Boris FX Learn2024-10-08 | In this SynthEyes tutorial, Russ Andersson offers a practical tip from technical support on how to identify and remove bad trackers more effectively by "working in the dark," i.e., turning off the image display. This method highlights the trackers against a dark background, making it easier to spot and analyze abnormal movements, especially in complex scenes with elements like moving cars.
By focusing solely on the tracker data, users can better detect patterns that deviate from the norm and delete problematic trackers before beginning the solve cycle. This approach not only streamlines the solving process but also enhances the overall accuracy of the tracking, leading to smoother and more reliable results in video post-production.Using Solver Controls in SynthEyes for Accurate 3D SolvingBoris FX Learn2024-10-08 | In this tutorial, Russ Andersson demonstrates how to use various solver controls in SynthEyes to achieve accurate 3D solving. Starting with a flyby shot of a small town, Russ illustrates how the auto tracker performs 2D tracking but struggles with 3D solving due to issues like moving vehicles, reflections, or lens distortion. He introduces the "slow but sure" option, which helps the solver find the correct solution, yielding a proper field of view and low error. Russ also explains using motion hints to guide the solver towards likely solutions. For more complex shots, he discusses using the "begin" and "end" frames to focus on specific parts of the shot exhibiting strong perspective shifts. This method is crucial when dealing with object tracks that lack consistent perspective changes. After obtaining an initial solve, Russ demonstrates cleaning up trackers and enabling lens distortion correction to further refine the solve, significantly reducing pixel error. This tutorial provides essential tips and techniques to effectively use SynthEyes' solver controls for precise 3D tracking.Managing File Saves and Autosave in SynthEyesBoris FX Learn2024-10-07 | Russ Andersson explains the various file save options in SynthEyes, focusing on traditional manual saving versus the autosave feature. He discusses how to set up file names, the benefits of autosave, and strategies for experimenting with files. Andersson also covers the auto increment feature, which helps maintain multiple versions of a file for backup purposes. Learn how to configure autosave intervals, increment upon opening, and limit the number of saved versions to suit your workflow. This tutorial provides practical guidance for efficiently managing your work in SynthEyes.