Discover the Exciting New Features of Resolve 18 with Surface Tracker

Discover the Exciting New Features of Resolve 18 with Surface Tracker

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. What is Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18?
3. Accessing Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18
4. Using the Surface Tracker 4.1 Selecting the Tracking Area 4.2 Using the Bounds Mode 4.3 Using the Mesh Mode 4.4 Tracking Forward and Reverse
5. Applying Results with Compositing 5.1 Adding Open Effects Input 5.2 Working with External Mats 5.3 Adjusting the Result
6. Enhancing the Composite with Layer Nodes 6.1 Adding a Layer Node 6.2 Switching Inputs and Applying Composite Mode 6.3 Adjusting Transparency with Serial Node
7. Additional Possibilities with Surface Tracker 7.1 Creating a Graphic Overlay 7.2 Exploring Advanced Compositing Techniques
8. Conclusion
9. Summary of Pros and Cons
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Article:

Introduction

In the world of video editing, DaVinci Resolve has emerged as a powerful tool for post-production. One of the exciting new features in DaVinci Resolve 18 is the Surface Tracker, which allows users to track objects onto flowy surfaces like Fabric, flags, and even human skin. This article will guide You through the process of using the Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18, exploring its capabilities and offering tips for efficient compositing.

What is Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18?

The Surface Tracker is a revolutionary tool in DaVinci Resolve 18 that enables users to track objects onto flowy surfaces. Unlike conventional planar trackers, the Surface Tracker adapts to the morphing and changing shapes of the surface being tracked. This versatility opens up new possibilities for compositing, allowing editors to seamlessly attach objects to moving surfaces.

Accessing Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18

To access the Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18, navigate to the Color page. Although it may seem unusual for a compositing tool to be located in the Color page, the Surface Tracker can be found under the Effects menu in the upper right-HAND corner. Simply Type "s-u-r" to bring up the Surface Tracker option. Once selected, you can add the Surface Tracker to any node in your editing timeline.

Using the Surface Tracker

Selecting the Tracking Area

To begin tracking, define the area you want to track by drawing a Shape around it. For simplicity, let's consider attaching an object to a person's shirt. Select the area of the shirt where you want to place the object. The Surface Tracker offers various shape-drawing options, allowing you to Create complex shapes or add holes if necessary. For basic tracking, a rough approximation of the area is sufficient.

Using the Bounds Mode

By default, the Surface Tracker is set to Bounds mode. In this mode, a rectangular shape is generated Based on the tracking area you have defined. The shape can be adjusted to Align with the folds and contours of the surface, ensuring accurate tracking. In most cases, the default settings will work fine for basic compositing tasks.

Using the Mesh Mode

For more precise tracking, switch to Mesh mode. This mode generates a mesh that conforms to the shape of the surface. You can manipulate the mesh to align with the contours of the surface, providing a detailed tracking result. While this mode offers greater control, it may require more time and effort to adjust the mesh accurately.

Tracking Forward and Reverse

Once the tracking area and mode are set, initiate the tracking process by clicking on the Track button. The Surface Tracker will analyze the frames and track the defined area forward and then in reverse. This bidirectional tracking ensures accurate results, even when the surface undergoes significant morphing and changes. Once the tracking is complete, you can proceed to Apply the results to your composition.

Applying Results with Compositing

To apply the tracked results, you will need to use compositing techniques within the Color page of DaVinci Resolve 18. Start by right-clicking on a node and selecting "Add Open Effects Input" to create a new node for compositing. This will allow you to merge different elements together.

Working with External Mats

To add an external image or graphic that you want to place on the tracked surface, go to the Media Pool and import the desired element. Drag the image or graphic into the composition. This will create an external mat that can be connected to a Second input on the compositing node. The external mat will Blend with the tracked area, creating a seamless composite.

Adjusting the Result

By default, the Surface Tracker will warp the second input onto the first input. To control the appearance of the composite, right-click on the Surface Tracker node and select "Output." Choose the desired output option to manipulate how the elements are merged. Experiment with different options to achieve the desired effect. Additionally, you can adjust the composite by adding additional nodes such as layer nodes and applying different compositing modes.

Enhancing the Composite with Layer Nodes

To further refine your composite, utilize layer nodes within DaVinci Resolve 18. Adding a layer node provides greater control over the compositing process. By combining the Surface Tracker with layer nodes, you can achieve sophisticated effects and seamlessly integrate elements into the composition.

Adding a Layer Node

To add a layer node, select the Surface Tracker node and press "Alt + L." This will create a new layer node. Switch the inputs so that the Surface Tracker is connected to the second layer and the original footage is connected to the first layer. The layer node acts as a mixing tool, allowing you to composite the elements together.

Switching Inputs and Applying Composite Mode

Once the layer node is set up, right-click on it and select "Composite Mode" to choose a blending mode. The "Add" composite mode is often effective for removing black backgrounds and seamlessly integrating the tracked object with the background. Adjust the transparency and blending options to achieve the desired visual result.

Adjusting Transparency with Serial Node

To fine-tune the transparency of the composite, insert a serial node before the layer mixer. Within the serial node, adjust the blur settings and primary wheels to control the transparency and overall appearance of the composite. By manipulating these parameters, you can create a more realistic and visually pleasing effect.

Additional Possibilities with Surface Tracker

Apart from basic object tracking, the Surface Tracker in DaVinci Resolve 18 offers additional possibilities for creative compositing.

Creating a Graphic Overlay

With the Surface Tracker, you can create graphic overlays that adhere to the tracked surface. For example, you could place a company logo on a person's shirt during a video advertisement. Explore different graphics and experiment with various compositing techniques to enhance your videos.

Exploring Advanced Compositing Techniques

The Surface Tracker's versatility goes beyond basic tracking. You can utilize advanced compositing techniques to achieve remarkable effects. For example, you can apply realistic makeup or tattoos onto a person's face or body using the Surface Tracker. Take AdVantage of the tool's flexibility and unleash your creativity.

Conclusion

DaVinci Resolve 18's Surface Tracker is a game-changer in the world of compositing. It allows editors and VFX artists to easily track objects onto flowy surfaces, creating seamless visual effects. With its intuitive interface and powerful capabilities, the Surface Tracker opens up new possibilities for creative storytelling in video editing.

Summary of Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Accurate tracking of flowy surfaces
• Versatile compositing capabilities
• Integration with DaVinci Resolve's Color page
• Ability to create complex shapes for tracking
• Advanced compositing techniques possible

Cons:

• May require more time and effort for precise tracking in Mesh mode
• Limited to the Color page in DaVinci Resolve 18

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can the Surface Tracker be used on other types of surfaces, such as walls or floors? A: The Surface Tracker is primarily designed for tracking objects onto flowy surfaces like fabric, flags, and skin. While it may be possible to use it on other surfaces, its effectiveness may vary.

Q: Can I apply multiple Surface Trackers to a single clip? A: Yes, you can apply multiple Surface Trackers to different nodes in the Color page. This allows you to track and composite multiple objects onto the same or different surfaces within a scene.

Q: Does the Surface Tracker work in DaVinci Resolve's Fusion page? A: No, the Surface Tracker is currently only available in the Color page of DaVinci Resolve 18. However, Fusion provides alternative tools and techniques for advanced compositing tasks.

Q: Is the Surface Tracker compatible with other video editing software? A: The Surface Tracker is specifically designed for DaVinci Resolve 18 and may not be directly compatible with other video editing software. However, similar tracking and compositing functionalities may be available in other software applications.