The task was to construct a 3d model of a catamaran and embed it into photographic ocean race material in the most illusionistic way possible.

Obviously, creating a highly detailed model and rendering the synthetic catamaran in appropriate perspectives and optics was crucial. But a 2d/3d compositing doesn't end there.

All the characteristics of the existing photo material need to be applied to the otherwise sterile 3d rendering.

In this case, the rough conditions visible in the high-speed sea photos commanded specific textures for the overall look: a strong grain, color distortion on the borders between highly contrasted areas (chromatic aberration), the irradiation of bright parts, color casts etc.