Re: Problems with Sapphire and alphas

I assume you're using Sapphire V1, because V2 allows you to click "Apply to Title/Matte" or something along those lines. So, assuming you're using Sapphire Effects V1, you need to make a sandwich.

First, you have to combine the matte and fill by applying the S_MakeRBGA effect. Don't nest it onto your title. Just drop it on. It will combine the matte and fill and your background will disappear. Don't panic. Just select any and all other effects you now want to be applied to that title--in your case, the S_EdgeRays effect. For all of these effect, nest them--meaning hold Alt and then apply them. When you have all other effects added to your titles, add the S_Layer effect. This will revive the matte of your title and composite it over your background, as well as give you additional options, like foreground/background saturation, overlay modes, foreground/background opacity, scaling the darks/lights of the foreground/background or composited image, etc...

Sapphire effects are unbelievably powerful and kick major ass, but take some practice to understand. Remember this--when applying to anything with an alpha key, make a sandwich that goes like this: Drop S_MakeRGBA directly on, replacing the matte key effect(this is the bottom bun)...ALT drop all other effects (these are meats, cheese, condiments of your sandwhich)...ALT drop S_Layer or another compositing effect on top (Top Bun).

Mike.