Introduction to Nuke
This week we focused on getting acquainted with the Nuke interface and its diverse set of tools. Additionally, we delved into learning essential keyboard shortcuts, which helps streamlining workflow for efficiency.
Python is the main scripting language in Nuke, and is a significant step, as it opens up a wide array of possibilities for automation and customisation. Python scripting can greatly enhance capabilities within the software.
Understanding the importance of the EXR (OpenEXR) format is crucial in the context of Nuke. This high dynamic range (HDR) format is widely favoured for its ability to preserve detailed image information, making it an ideal choice for visual effects work where precision is paramount.
building a solid foundation in both the practical aspects of the software and the underlying scripting language. This approach will undoubtedly contribute to my proficiency in Nuke and the field of visual effects as a whole. I come from a Motion designer/Animator background, but had never used a node based system like Nuke, it looks very challenging. The Lecture was mainly focused on the Cinematography Foundation.
A task was set to produce a mood board about ‘time with pictures, as it was in the month of October I decided to focus my mood board on a number of things relating to that time in London, and what was going on at this time of the month. I included pictures celebrating Black history month, and varies timed events that occurred in the month.
Week 3
continued Cinematography lecture
This weeks task was to create a short few clips with topic ‘Public Transport’ using a smartphone, this consisted of my daily route to UAL
Week 4
Intro to Digital Compositing and Nuke software interface
Learned more about the VFX pipeline for Nuke as a digital compositor, and how to navigate in the software interface, using the read and write node ingesting footage. I encountered my first major problem with Nuke, when installing the software it kept on crashing on start up. I had to contact Nuke directly to fix this issue
Adjusting to Nuke’s node-based interface presented an initial learning curve, especially coming from the layer-based structure of After Effects. However, with practice, the flexibility of node-based compositing became apparent.
Week 5
Roto and Prep,
Focusing this time on roto techniques of visual effects, as it forms the basis for many complex processes.
Understanding the foundations of roto work is essential, as it serves as the groundwork for various visual effects tasks. The attention to detail and precision required in roto work contribute significantly to the overall quality of the final output. I’m taking the time to grasp these fundamental aspects.
Coming from an After Effects background, transitioning to Nuke has been challenging initially due to the differences in workflow and tools. However, I’m embracing this challenge as it is key to expanding my skill set and versatility as a 3D artist.
As the journey progresses, it’s anticipated that familiarity with the Nuke terminology and UI will increase, alleviating some of my initial confusion. The commitment to mastering the tool and its associated challenges is evident, setting the stage for continued growth and proficiency in animation and visual effects.
As I continue to navigate through the intricacies of Nuke, my persistence will undoubtedly pay off in mastering the software and enhancing my capabilities in animation and visual effects. The journey through Nuke’s intricacies is indeed a process, and the willingness to tackle challenges head-on demonstrates a commendable attitude towards professional development, I’m not afraid to make mistakes here, as that’s how you learn.
Week 6
Lecture: Merging and colour matching
In the lecture we learned about colour spaces, merging operations, the grading node, colour matching, QC Protocols, and publishing best practices.
the intricacies of colour spaces and merging operations can be initially overwhelming. However, the hands-on exercises and practical applications provided a tangible understanding, contributing to a more nuanced comprehension of these concepts.
I’m expected to build upon the foundational knowledge gained in the lecture part. The integration of colour management principles and work flow optimisation, will undoubtedly contribute to their proficiency as a 3D artists in the dynamic field of animation and visual effects. I’m learning that Nuke is a very powerful and customisable software.
I started to create my mood board for the ballon mountain project. for the task i’m thinking of animating a giant monstrous hand attempt to try and grab one of the ballon’s in the scene.
My journey into Nuke has been a rewarding experience, unlocking a new dimension of compositing capabilities. The challenges encountered during the transition from After Effects have been instrumental in shaping a more versatile and skilled approach to visual effects and compositing workflows. Nuke’s strengths in handling complex visual effects and its integration with 3D workflows have positioned me for a more sophisticated and nuanced outlook at compositing projects.