Video processing for composite images

Abstract

A video image composition system and method in which the artist can move an insert cut out of a foreground image relative to a background image while continuously observing on the monitor the instantaneous artistic effects of the varying composition, without any need to make an initial decision on exactly where to pin the insert. A soft-edged control image operates on the foreground image to cut the insert. By using a pen and a tablet, the artist moves the control and foreground images as a unit relative to the background image while being able at all times to view the monitor display of the dynamically changing, full composited image. The artist can thus rapidly assess a great number of different composited images before deciding where and how to pin the insert for the final composited image. An additional control image allows the artist to select from the background image a foreground object which always will be in front of the insert from the foreground image. The insert moving around the background image will then appear to pass behind this foreground object. The foreground and/or background images can be displayed as transparent images to give more artistic freedom in the selection on where and how to pin an insert by making it possible to observe not only what is around the insert but also what is behind or in front of an image portion.