Hiding geometry, but still casting its shadows, possible?

[Fatal_Films]

Hi guys, me again...
I need just a hint in the right direction...its kinda urgent...

Can i hide certain geometry, but still have its interaction with the lights in the scene? ie. casting shadaws from an "invisible" object.

PLEEEEASE help.

why?
Im compositing actors into a virtual set, and need to make shadows for them, so... i need to make a simply body shape to cast shadows from, but not render the geometry out...

any idea?
I appreciate it!

regards
PM Nagel
(supporting the long awaited DT release of Maya live Matchmoving!)

[sunder]

Go the shape of the geometry and in the Render Stats, just turn off Primary Visibility. It will be hidden but still should cast a shadow. Good luck :)

[Fatal_Films]

Thanx sunder-man, that works!
one more thing...

Is this the best way to create shadows for actors shot infront of a blue screen?

this is a big obstacle of mine:
how do i create realistic matching shadows in a complexed lighted environment of actors chroma keyed from a blue screen???

(without going the normal 2d edit move) as a new layer...
???
Thanx