[SaT]

Is there a way to use an alpha channel where the final render output does not contain a black background? I would like to keep the physical sky in addition to getting a seperate alpha channel.

[SaT]

No one?

[Bubbaloo]

I'm sure Tom might have an answer for you.

[tom]

The shortest way is doing the render and alpha channel first and additionally rendering the physical sky alone.

[SaT]

Ok. Thanks Tom.

[fuso]

How about using the new function of embedding the alpha channel into the output image?
I haven't tried it yet so I can't say what the result is. Would be good to know though...

Just realizing how lazy that sounds but I'm in the middle of a deadline so I can't 'play around'
right now.

[fuso]

Ok I just did a quick test with the alpha channel embedded into a tif render output and nothing changed,
it's still a black background, no physical sky to be seen. Looks like you have to go with Tom's strategy.

[SaT]

Looks like you have to go with Tom's strategy.

You are right. Unfortunately this is an extra step.

[fuso]

Very unfortunately indeed, I'd say. One of many things I'm not happy with. Maybe this should go onto the wish list if it's not
already on there. It would be great to be able to render an image with visible skydome/HDRI and embedded alpha mask in one
step as all other render engines can...