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Thread: Alpha Channel

  1. #1
    Join Date
    Apr 2007
    Location
    Orlando, Florida
    Posts
    22

    Alpha Channel

    What is the best codec to use for motion graphics with an alpha channel for transparency?
    Dan Valcich
    Project Manager
    VER

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Oct 2004
    Location
    UK - Milton Keynes
    Posts
    807
    For native transparency: probably annimation codec - but it can be very processor intensive... ensure you have a well preped system, SSD, and good graphics card.

    Do test first to gauge performance - lower resolutions can help

    Simon
    Simon Pugsley

    SNP Productions Ltd. (UK)
    Lighting & Video Control Solutions
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    simon@snp-productions.co.uk
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  3. #3
    Honestly, try using standard AIC files but render them with a solid color as a lower layer that comes through the alpha. Then you can use the transparent color FX and dial in the color. I have a hundred plus pieces of content I am using on a show now which I have done this way and they work fine.

    Just FYI, I had a few pieces with some foliage which was green and blue so I made by background layer red and was able to make the background only transparent which looked great.

    I wouldn't suggest the animation codec unless you are only running very few layers. If this isn't an issue then Simon is right.
    SourceChild
    TODD SCRUTCHFIELD

    ...if it ain't broke...
    gimme 5 and then don't act surprised

  4. #4
    Quote Originally Posted by Dan Valcich View Post
    What is the best codec to use for motion graphics with an alpha channel for transparency?
    animation codec is the only codec with an alpha channel.

  5. #5
    Quote Originally Posted by samsc View Post
    animation codec is the only codec with an alpha channel.
    i was wrong - you can also export a png compressed movie-

    using millions of colours + in the export settings.

    dont know about performance - but png is lossless- and relatively new compared to the animation codec.

    dont know about file size - not done any real tests.
    Attached Images Attached Images

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