Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

Computer-generated visual effects are now used extensively in feature films, commercials, music videos, and multimedia. The backbone of this process, the final and most important step, is known as digital compositing. The Art and Science of Digital Compositing is a comprehensive reference that provides a complete overview of the technical and the artistic nature of this process. This book covers a wide range of topics from basic image creation, representation, and manipulation, to a look at the visual cues that are necessary to create a believable composite. Designed as both an introduction to the field as well as a valuable technical reference, this book should be of interest to both novices and professionals alike.

Written by a working professional in the visual effects industry, the book provides over 250 different images and illustrations (including a 40-page color insert) as well as a complete glossary of compositing and visual-effects terminology. Also included are in-depth case studies from well-known films such as Speed, Independence Day, and Titanic.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Acknowledgments
• Preface
• Chapter 1 Introduction to Digital Compositing
• Chapter 2 The Digital Representation of Visual Information
• Chapter 3 Basic Image Manipulation
• Chapter 4 Basic Image Compositing
• Chapter 5 Matte Creation and Manipulation
• Chapter 6 Time and Temporal Manipulations
• Chapter 7 Image Tracking and Stabilization
• Chapter 8 Interface Interactions
• Chapter 9 Image Viewing and Analysis Tools
• Chapter 10 Formats: Media, Resolution, and Aspect Ratios
• Chapter 11 Quality and Efficiency
• Chapter 12 Learning to See
• Chapter 13 Creating Elements
• Chapter 14 Integration Techniques
• Chapter 15 Advanced Topics
• Chapter 16 Case Studies
• Appendix A Digital Compositing Software: Tools and Features
• Appendix B Digital Compositing Software: Manufacturers
• Appendix C Digital Image File Formats
• Appendix D Common Film and Video Formats
• Bibliography
• Glossary
• Index

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

Brinkmann states that his intention was to write a comprehensive reference book for anyone wanting to use digital compositing. Defining digital compositing as the "digitally manipulated combination of at least two source images to produce an integrated result," he provides a remarkably complete overview of the technical and artistic nature of the medium. Drawing heavily on his own experiences in producing visual effects for feature films (his personal feature film credits include among others Contact, James and the Giant Peach, Die Hard with a Vengeance, Speed, and In the Line of Fire), Brinkmann presents the emphasis as an ideal framework, utilizing examples and sample images that he assumes the reader is already familiar with. The 16 chapters blend introductory information with more advanced and theoretical topics; the last chapter presents an interesting collection of case studies. Helpful appendixes discuss digital compositing software tools, manufacturers, and common film and video formats. Particularly useful bibliography; glossary. An accompanying CD-ROM provides all the images in electronic form. However, with the look and feel of a textbook, it seems designed specifically for educational use in the field. Upper-division undergraduates through professionals; two-year technical program students. J. Natal; Columbia College (IL)