In Fourier transform profilometry (FTP), zero frequency of the captured patterns influences the measuring range and measuring precision, and even makes the reconstruction of three-dimensional surface incorrect. π phase shifting technique is usually used to eliminate the zero component. But this method needs capturing two fringe patterns with π phase difference, which influences the real-time application of the method. Now a novel method is proposed, in which a composite pattern is projected. The composite pattern is formed by modulating two separate fringe patterns with π phase difference along the orthogonal direction of the two distinct carrier frequencies. The method can eliminate zero frequency by using only one fringe pattern. The experiments show that there is no distinct decrease in the precision of the novel method compared with the traditional π phase shifting technique. So, the novel method can allow for real-time and high-speed implementation.