Tracking Markers – SEEN Documentation

What are Tracking Markers?

These are on-screen reference points, used when shooting a scene. These markers allow graphics to be accurately tracked to a surface if it, or the camera is moving in the shot. They are ultimately removed during the post-production process. The tracking and visual effects are done by the chosen production company.

Production

Tracking markers are required for visual effects shots where there are movements either in camera or the object(s).

The markers are placed on an object or within a scene to track the object in order to add elements in post production.

Be aware of not having anything in front of the markers, as they would have to be removed in post production.

The size and location should be discussed by the visual effect team, as they would know how to best place them.

Here is an example of a typical phone screen replacement.

Post-Production

1. Tracking the movement

First the visual effect team will use the markers to track the movement of each marker, so they can use this later for their VFX.

2. Removal of the markers & adding VFX

The visual effects team will then remove the markers in the post-production process by painting them out, creating what is called a “clean-plate”. You will therefore not see the tracking markers in the finished shot.

Text and/or graphics can then be added on top of the clean-plate as desired.