Glossary · Updated
What is cutout (video)?
Short answer
A video cutout, also called subject separation or rotoscoping, isolates a person from their background so graphics can sit behind them. Software can do this automatically, but quality depends on lighting, contrast and motion. Clean light and a contrasting background give cleaner edges.
How is cutout (video) used in editing?
The text-behind-head effect relies on a cutout. See how to put big text behind your head.
What mistakes do people make?
- Backgrounds matching hair or clothes
- Fast hand motion
- Poor light
Which skills use it?
Layers and Bold put words behind your head, and the install notes say Layers and Explainer use Xcode Command Line Tools on a Mac for the cutout.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a green screen?
Not with software cutouts, though results vary.
What is rotoscoping?
Tracing a subject frame by frame.
How do I get cleaner edges?
Light the subject evenly, keep a contrasting background and avoid fast hand movement, because these give the software cleaner edges to separate.
Can it fail?
Yes, so check stills.
Skills mentioned on this page
Layers
A full motion-graphics edit from one plain clip: words behind your head, plates, charts and cards.
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