AFX and film out

[Bayden Docking]

Hey Guys,

I will be doing some vfx work soon in after effects for a project but have never had experience with a project for film out yet.

I have been told i will be getting DPX files because they are editing in FCP (transcoding to proRes.) My question is what to do after the shots have been composited?

Do i give just the effect plates back to the editors? or do i include the original background plates as well and how does this link back in with the color grading?

This will be our first project that will be printed to film, and have been thrown in the deep end, so forgive my lack of knowledge and hopefully someone can explain how it works or point me in the right direction.

Regards,
Doc.

[John Tissavary]

Since I have no idea what your project's particular pipeline is, I can only give ideas of what questions to ask.

You'll get the plates, render your CGI or pull keys or whatever, do comps, render out your final vfx shots >>>
These final shots will probably need to go to both editorial and color, but you'll need to find out from the post supe who's responsible for which particular deliverables to which department.

The original plates are, most likely, irrelevant other than for archival purposes. You'll want to find out if they're archiving them or you. It's beneficial to establish deliverables and a 'chain of custody' during the contract phase, so you'll be clear on who gets what, and how much work you're actually in for.

cheers,

JT

[Bayden Docking]

Thanks John,
I'm not completely sure of the pipeline, i think they are still figuring that out themselves. The main thing i am trying to figure out is whether the final comps go direct from me to the color/grading before going to print process, or whether they have to go back to the editorial and they handle the pass on.
I know it's hard to answer without knowing the workflow, but i guess im thinking out loud. Will find out soon enough i guess.