https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ecycc_ECFBzx2egmN4fYhQ9ONkXt7C4SF5qp6BqsrgI/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.5p8qnw8egjcy
Along with creating original CGI, we are often responsible for CGI replacement of products within live-action shots. A lot of this nowadays is handled by Rabbits Foot Studio but it’s valuable for every CGI artist to know this workflow and how to reproduce real world animation, lighting, rendering and compositing. This knowledge can be applied and implemented into a lot of areas of CG (insitus, improving photorealism in full CG, etc).
For the full mediamanagement workflow in prepping files to use in the 3D CGI replacement work, check the document below
Prep CGI for Replacement Document
To start the CGI replacement process, a clean, structured, rigged, with approved lookdev 3D product is needed. Read how to set this up in the C4D Workflow file under “Model”.
An .FBX of this product, with identical hierarchy, along with the live-action shots, will be sent out to India for 3D tracking.
This is delivered in a specific way. Read how to deliver the .FBX files to India in the C4D Workflow file under “Prepare for India”
The live-action plates, or Prerenders, are also delivered in a specific way. Read more on that here
AE/VFX Comp Workflow/Prerender/India
An external company in India will provide back to us a collection of files. The package will slightly differ per company but usually includes:
A video file: showcasing the tracking’s accuracy
Geometry files in different outputs: .fbx, .abc, etc. This the file we will import into C4d to work with.
The geometry will move through the same hierarchy provided. In C4D we will replace their geometry with our final 3D model.
Camera files with different outputs: .fbx, .abc, etc. This is the camera that belongs with this geometry. Only while through this camera will the geometry align with the backplate.
Maya (or other 3D software) files: their native 3D software to check their tracking
3D Equalizer (or other tracking software) files: the software files the track was created in
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