Apple Introduces New FCP Effect: Scene Removal Mask

With the 10.6.6 update to Final Cut Pro on the Mac, Apple introduced a new feature called Scene Removal Mask.

What this does – if you follow the directions – is remove a static background from behind an active foreground subject.

Final Cut Pro Help: The Scene Removal Mask effect detects objects in the foreground of a video clip and automatically removes the background—without the need for a green screen. You can then replace the background with a different image or insert a title between the foreground and background.

This is similar in concept to green screen, except the background must be stationary.

HOW THIS WORKS

This technique requires a specific shot during production, it can’t be added during editing.

• First, put the camera on a tripod.
• Second, shoot a few seconds of the background either at the beginning or end of the scene without any talent.
• Then, in Final Cut, put a new background into the Primary Storyline, with the clip containing the background you want to remove above it.

Apply Masks and Keying > Scene Removal Mask.

NOTE: The Masks and Keying category is new with the 10.6.6. update and combines both the Keying and Masks categories.

There’s nothing to adjust except to select whether to use the beginning or end of the clip. All masking is automatic.

SUMMARY

I haven’t had the chance to test this with an actual shot, so I can’t speak to how well this works. However, since the only alternative to this technique is rotoscoping, I wanted to let you know this effect is available so you can try it for yourself.

EXTRA CREDIT

Final Cut Pro Help adds: “For best results, before you apply the Scene Removal Mask to a video clip, make sure the clip:

• Has a static background and was captured using a stationary camera (a camera attached to a tripod, for example)
• Has a few extra frames at the beginning or end showing the background without the foreground subject present
• Was shot in a bright, evenly lit place (preferably indoors)
• Has good contrast between the subject and background (no similar colors or textures)
• Has no strong moving shadows, and maintains space between the foreground subject and background
• Has a visually simple background (without complex patterns or structures such as windows or bookshelves)”