Portfolio: DreamWorks' Matte Department.(DreamWorks Animation SKG Inc.)

Images from the upcoming film Over the Hedge, to be released by DreamWorks Animation.

Creating matte paintings for CG animation requires a different approach than it does for live-action films with digital effects, according to Ronn Brown, head of the matte-painting department at DreamWorks Animation's Glendale, California, facility. The department generated the backgrounds and scenery in the images shown here, which are from the team's first project, Over the Hedge.

"In CG animation, there usually isn't much to match other than key art, an overall aesthetic, light direction, and, sometimes, rendered elements," Brown says. "So, there is more of an opportunity to get creative [than there is in live action]."

Image series spanning both pages:

Interior and exterior shots: These two series of images from Over the Hedge illustrate the extensive digital set paintings done by the newly formed DreamWorks matte-painting department. From left to right in each series shows the compelling CG backgrounds--one indoor, the other outdoor--crafted by the group. Next is a shot of the characters, followed by the fully composited image.

Says Brown: "We work hand in hand with the art and lighting departments on each show. Matte artists typically have years of artistic training. They can do concept designs for visual development, as well." in fact, most of the matte artists at the Glendale facility have live action visual effects film experience, as well as some animation and background painting experience.

3D character modelers (and their creations) often steal the show in CG films, while digital matte painters work quietly behind the scenes, crafting the actual scenery where the characters ...