SynthEyes: The Favorite of Matt Merkovich, a VFX Supervisor
In the world of visual effects, few names resonate as profoundly as that of Matthew Merkovich. Known for his exceptional work, Merkovich's favourite project, Minority Report, stands out due to its iconic status and the talented VFX team he worked with. One of the key tools that aided Merkovich in bringing this vision to life was Boris FX SynthEyes, a renowned 3D tracking and matchmoving software.
SynthEyes, initially developed by Andersson Technologies and later acquired by Boris FX, has been a staple in the visual effects industry for nearly two decades. Its advanced 3D tracking capabilities allow users to accurately track complex camera movements and objects within video footage, a crucial aspect for seamless integration of visual effects into live-action scenes.
One of the unique features of SynthEyes is its AI-powered motion estimation mode for auto-tracking, which enhances efficiency and accuracy in tracking tasks. The software also supports a wide range of file formats and is compatible with various video editing and visual effects software, making it versatile for different workflows. Despite its advanced features, SynthEyes is designed with a user-friendly interface that makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced professionals.
Merkovich has been using SynthEyes for 3D tracking since its early beta stages. One of the projects he used SynthEyes for was the Dodge commercial, where he utilised the software for 3D tracking. The most challenging shot he ever tracked with SynthEyes was a minutes-long shot for the show Mr. Robot.
The new lens distortion tools in SynthEyes have significantly improved its ability to handle anamorphic footage, a feature that Merkovich used to do all the 3D tracking for the analysis room in the movie Minority Report. This improvement was made possible when Russ Andersson, the original author of SynthEyes, sent Merkovich a beta version of a tool for 3D camera tracking after their conversation at a trade show many years ago.
SynthEyes offers various features beyond just 3D tracking, such as supervised 2D tracking, roto, building geometry, rendering mattes for comp, and on-set VFX supervision. These features make SynthEyes a powerful tool for professionals in the visual effects industry, providing precise tracking and matchmoving capabilities essential for creating realistic and engaging visual effects.
For matchmove artists, the most important reason to incorporate SynthEyes into their pipeline is its superior 3D tracking and matchmoving capabilities. Merkovich, who considers SynthEyes the best 3D tracking and matchmoving app, advises new users not to be afraid of the user interface, as it is actually quite simple.
SynthEyes is available for download through the Boris FX Hub, along with a free trial. As the software continues to improve and evolve, it remains a vital tool for visual effects professionals like Matthew Merkovich, who primarily works on 3D tracking and matchmoving projects.
With SynthEyes, Matthew Merkovich was able to enhance his 3D tracking and matchmoving work in the world of visual effects, using it on projects like the Dodge commercial and the analysis room in the movie Minority Report. The user-friendly interface of this software, combined with its advanced features, such as AI-powered motion estimation and support for various file formats, make it a valuable tool for both beginners and professionals in the entertainment industry.
