Ya, basically, if I render the background of a comp, and then make changes to the other layers, i have to re-render the BG if i add another layer or make changes that change the layering (as dan pointed out).
Hey Jim. I’ve found it helpful to make a solid behind certain parts of my puppet. Basically the hands, or elbows or shoulders so that if i have to change the puppet down the road it means i have some leeway. Then when you make your puppet, you just turn off the solid and you have some room to play… Here’s an example.
If your layers are in 3D, is your chalk line on the same level as the chalkboard? When I have 2 3D layers on the same level (same z-space coordinates for example) they “pop” when i render. Try offsetting them a few points, or render them separately.
Hey, now that i’ve said that.. so far extruder doesn’t work in CS5. He needs to stop going out drinking with the Zaxwerks guys! BUT with a little tweaking, your suggestion of using shatter works pretty well!