Hi Bret,
I appreciate the feedback. That's a good run down. While I was waiting I began using a semi transparent black solid, masked out, with another layer for specular that didn't look too bad. So, sounds like I am on track with about what you are saying. The shot is a straight on with just a slight amount of left and right movement (so does require tracking). Agree on the warp. I assume Bezier is already in AE (believe I've heard of it before) so will check that out with a back up of creating a slightly oversized shield in Lightwave 3D and masking it out since it would have the curve.
On an associated note, with reflection, is there a way to cast a reflection from a layer on to the helmet lense? I know the most obvious is mask it on there too but if the helmet layer could somehow be set to be the only layer that accepts a reflection it would spare the keyframing of the mask since the reflection would remain static against the moving helmet.
If that made any sense. :)
Thanks,
Eric
Eric D. Kirk
http://www.kirkproductions.com