Animating Z-Depth

[TSuess]

Ok. So I want to animate a change in my Depth of Field. The easiest way to do this is to composite two images with a z-depth map in post production. The only problem is that max will not let me animate my Z-depth. I can control my Z-min and Z-max for each frame individually but I cannot set them to change gradually over x amount of frames. I can't imagine I'm the first person to attempt this using the z-depth render element. Anyone have any ideas?

 

Thanks,

Tom

[Tommy L]

I would recommend taking control of DOF in post. Much more controlable and your render times will be waaay faster. DOF pro is excellent (but not free), has animatable properties and a batch function.

 

What render engine are you using?

[Gus_Rayvus]

Hey Tom, Whatever program you are using for post will have the option to animate you DOF. If you render your z-depth element as a floating point 32bit file, you will have the full range of z-depth even if you cant see it. If you need a hand setting it up just fb message me.

[TSuess]

Thanks Pete. I'll look into it and let you know if I have any problems. BTW loved the animation posted to Vimeo.