AOV - shadow layer

[lcetina]

I have a problem with an ongoing project.

This is the original render (simplified test scene)

I need that same result separated into three layers - background, object and shadow.

I've exported the background and object to separated layers.

I've exported shadow using AOV - Layer Black Shadows

This is the result when I combine those layers

Shadow layer come out too dark. I've tried to brighten it in PS, but it is flat compared to original render

This is shadow exported using AOV - Layer Shadows - shadow not complete

This is the result of Shadow Catcher Material - object and shadow are on the same layer and have too much contrast

What am I doing wrong?
I'm sure it is something stupid I am forgetting, but already past deadline with this one :/

Test scene -

test-shadow_layer.rar

(63.67 KiB) Downloaded 102 times

[abstrax]

You are doing nothing wrong here, there are just some wrong assumptions/expectations. All shadow AOVs only capture direct light shadows, i.e. shadows that are caused directly by the occlusion of one or more light sources. They don't capture indirect effects caused by the occlusion of indirect light sources, like the reflection of the bed to the floor. The shadows that are captured are similar to the shadows you can see in the direct diffuse AOV, but when you check the indirect diffuse AOV you can see that there is a lot more going on in the shadow of the bed. All that is missing.

To improve the result, you can try multiplying the render layer shadow AOV (not the black shadow AOV) with your background and then add the render layer reflection AOV on top of it and then compose your active layer AOV on top of that stack. There are still paths missing though, resulting in a still too dark shadow. I am currently checking if the behavior is correct or if there is something amiss and will let you know tomorrow.