Canon T2i Slow Motion (part 2)

I'm never satisfied until I attempt several ways to solve a problem.  Here are 2 other results of different algorithms to create slow-mo from the kayaking shot.  The first test just below was created using the Timewarp effect in After Effects.  This is a free and standard effect in the program.  The way frames are created using this is with "Pixel Motion" (the same method with using the solid line with the frame blending switch).  Timewarp in contrast to simple Time-Remapping allows you under the hood control of how it works.  The downside to timewarp to time-remap is that it is a little messier to work with.  You must precomp a clip and apply the effect to the precomp to have access to a full clip. [vimeo 24487311 w=418 h=235]

Pixel Motion After Effects Timewarp from Chadwick Shoults on Vimeo.

The other big way that is very popular now is a $500 plugin called Twixtor.  Twixtor works very much like the other time remapping tools that come with After Effects, but does its' own math to make up new frames.  I have seen some really amazing shots created using this tool so I thought I'd try it myself.  After spending an hour or so with it, I am convinced that with irregular organic footage (like water splashing) Twixtor is not up to par with Time Remap or Timewarp.  If you look closely at the Twixtor sample below you will see weird water come off the bottom of the boat in a very unnatural way that does not happen using Pixel Motion.

[vimeo 24486241 w=418 h=235]

Twixtor SlowMo Comparison from Chadwick Shoults on Vimeo.

Anyway, for what it's worth I'll stick with mostly using the time-remap method of slowing down clips in After Effects.  It allows me to use "Pixel Motion" which seems to be the best for whitewater.  Also, I don't have to precompose anything or periodically go back to the nested comp to extend the comp duration which is slow and annoying.

And guess what?, I don't have to spend $500 or so on the plugin!  Yahooeee! (as my boy says)

Now I guess I have to make a Warren Miller flick.  Anyone want to go ski?