Bluescreen and shadows.

[vfx]

Okay, picking your brains again.

- I'm just gathering info for possible problems for upcoming projects. I have never done bluescreen before, How do I film 2 guys running toward the camera, and then composite them onto a pier. I have some idea, film blue behind and on the floor, but how do you pick out the shadows from bluescreen. Some real detailed good advice would be real helpful, thanks again everyone.

[Nomad]

When you film them just make sure the subjects are surrounded by the screen as they run toward you, This will avoid having to roto. When you are pulling the screen first create a loose garbage matte around the subjects as they run, this will get rid of the bulk of your screen. Then use your keyer to pull one level of color, then use another key operator to pull the shadow. You will need to work with these until you can pull an acceptable key. Also, in some circumstances if the angles and contours are right you can use the shadows cast in the comp. All-in-all pulling a matte can be an exercise in frustration, just don't feel you need to pull the whole key with one operator, but I don't know what software you'll use.

Good Luck.
Hope it helps

One other thing good lighting is a huge advantage, one of the best light rigs is provided by good ol mother nature herself. Nice and even coverage and parallel direction. So if I shoot outside I try to take advantage of it.