Definition:
Matchmoving is the process of tracking a live-action camera’s movement and recreating that movement in 3D space. This allows digital elements (like 3D models, particles, or effects) to seamlessly integrate into the live scene.
Key Components of Matchmove
- Camera Tracking:
- Solving the position, rotation, and focal length of the camera used in the footage.
- Software: PFTrack, SynthEyes, 3DEqualizer, NukeX, After Effects (Mocha)
- Object Tracking:
- Tracking moving objects within the footage (e.g., cars, people’s heads).
- Useful when CG elements need to be parented to moving objects.
- Survey Data / Lidar:
- Real-world measurements and scans used to increase matchmove accuracy.
- Lens Distortion Correction:
- Undistorting footage before tracking to make tracking cleaner and more precise.
- Reapplying the distortion post-composite.
- Scene Scale and Orientation:
- Establishing the correct scale in 3D space, which affects shadows, lighting, and CG element integration.
- Exporting for 3D Software:
- Exporting solved camera data to Maya, Blender, Houdini, etc., for further CG integration.
Tools of the Trade
- 3DEqualizer – Industry standard for high-end matchmove
- PFTrack – Feature-rich with survey support
- SynthEyes – Versatile and affordable
- NukeX – For nodal-based 3D camera tracking directly in compositing
- Blender (Free) – Good for hobbyists or indie creators
Matchmove Workflow Overview
- Ingest Footage
- Lens Distortion Analysis
- Tracking Features (Manual/Auto)
- Solve the Camera
- Scale and Align Scene
- Test Geometry Placement
- Export to 3D/Compositing Software
Learning Resources
- YouTube channels like CG Geek, FlippedNormals, Rebelway
- Courses on FXPHD, Gnomon, School of Motion
- Books like The VES Handbook of Visual Effects
- Matchmove-focused communities: Reddit r/vfx, Foundry forums, Discord VFX servers
Example Use Cases for Matchmove Content
Pipeline Docs: Internal VFX studio docs for standard matchmove workflow
Tutorial Videos: How to track a handheld shot and add a CG spaceship
Breakdowns: Before/after showing tracked camera with CG buildings
Portfolios: Matchmove projects with camera track overlays + final comp