Cloning someone

Question

New to the board--
What is the best way to duplicate someone in a single shot using Final Cut Pro HD? I am talking about like in films such as "Secret Window" where Johnny Depp encounters himself several times and talks to himself as well.
I appreciate any help provided,
Paul

Answer 1

A really good and easy way to do this is (yes, locked down camera... moving the camera is another tutorial!!):
Lock the camera down and light the scene. Light it WITH the talent in.
Turn on the camera and set it. TURN ALL AUTO SETTINGS OFF leave it all manual. Put sandbags on the tripod if you have to also.
Take a few seconds or more of the scene without any talent.
Add the talent to the scene for the first person.
Add the talent to the scene fo rthe second person.
REMEMBER - Don't turn off the camera or change ANYTHING!
Now work the three layers together in FCP. Crop where you need to and keep the "plate" on the bottom layer just incase.
If you get to a spot where you need them to cross paths then you'll need to use a difference matte to key out the people and have them move in layers.
Very easy to do. You'll find a great difference matte in After Effects.
CaptM