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You know that feeling when your smoke asset just sits there like a sad layer on top of your shot? No shadows, no light interaction.
Yeah. I was sick of that too.
Here's how to relight 2D smoke assets in After Effects so it actually reacts to fire. You get real lighting falloff, dynamic shadows, and it doesn’t look like you slapped it on in 30 seconds.
Here’s how you can do it using just two free plugins and a couple free ActionVFX assets.
You'll want to watch the video for a full walkthrough and to get the why behind the techniques I use. But I went ahead and put a summary of each step below so you have that for reference.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pV8NCLWLefc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Step 1: Plugins You’ll Need</h2>
This whole trick depends on two things:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/normal-mapper-for-ae">Normal Mapper for AE</a> (free on aescripts—but I encourage you to donate to the creator)</li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/normality-plugin">Normality</a> by Stefan Minning (also free)</li>
</ul>
<h2>Step 2: The Setup</h2>
Everything I used is included with your ActionVFX subscription, but you can also follow along with free assets too:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/4jUWfJ7">Smoke Plume:</a> from the Free Smoke Plumes Collection</li>
<li><a href="https://bit.ly/3SC81fa">Practice Plate:</a> from the Practice Footage Library</li>
</ul>
You can also get the fire asset I used with the code in the video until May 29th, 2025. <a href="https://bit.ly/430OA64">Just input the code here</a>.
I set everything up in After Effects using an ACES workflow. If you're not familiar with ACES in AE, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-use-aces-in-after-effects">we’ve got a separate video walking you through that</a>.
<h2>Step 3: Precomposing the Smoke</h2>
Precomp the smoke layer and call it Relit Smoke. From here, there are two ways you can go:
<ul>
<li>Option 1: Leave all attributes in Master Comp – better for static shots or stationary lights (like a fire).</li>
<li>Option 2: Move all attributes into new comp – better if you have moving lights (like headlights sweeping across).</li>
</ul>
For this walkthrough, I started with Option 1.
<h2>Step 4: Building the Normal and Depth Maps</h2>
Inside the Relit Smoke comp, duplicate the smoke layer 4 times:
<ul>
<li>Normality (top)</li>
<li>Depth Map</li>
<li>Normal Map</li>
<li>Texture</li>
</ul>
Each of these layers gets its own treatment:
<ul>
<li>Depth Map: Invert → Curves → Adjust until clipping shows in the highlights.</li>
<li>Normal Map: Precomp it, then apply Normal Mapper and crank the strength to 100. Add a Fast Box Blur (~1.2–1.5) to clean up artifacts.</li>
<li>Texture: Invert → Unmult → Invert again. Then adjust alpha with Curves and add a Tint to ensure grayscale.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Step 5: Bringing It All Together</h2>
On the Normality layer apply:
<ul>
<li>Invert → Unmult → Normality plugin</li>
</ul>
Set it to 3D (even though Normality doesn’t recommend it) because it gives you better falloff and placement.
Then assign:
<ul>
<li>Normal Map from the precomp</li>
<li>Depth Map from the comp</li>
</ul>
Make sure Effects &amp; Masks is checked.
Invert the Depth Map so thinner smoke appears brighter (as it should when light passes through it).
<h2>Step 6: Lighting the Smoke</h2>
Now for the fun part: lighting.
Create a Point Light, set it to white, and position it where the fire would realistically be.
Then duplicate it and move the second one to the opposite side for more natural coverage.
To make the lights feel alive (like fire), add wiggle expressions:
<ul>
<li>Y Position: wiggle(3,60)</li>
<li>Z Position: wiggle(2,100)</li>
</ul>
Copy those expressions to both lights. The result? Lights that move organically like a fire would—casting shadows and highlights across the smoke dynamically.
<h2>Step 7: Making It Fit the Scene</h2>
Back in the main comp, duplicate and offset the smoke to make it wider, covering more of the fire area. Relink the depth and normal maps for each instance.
You might notice the smoke is now moving too slow compared to the fire—so use Time Stretch on the precomp and set it to 30.
<h2>Step 8: Coloring the Smoke with Firelight</h2>
Here’s where it really sells.
Duplicate the relit smoke precomp and add a Fill effect to the bottom one (set to black for black smoke).
Then duplicate the fire layer, apply a glow (I used Deep Glow V2, but standard Glow works too), set the Source Opacity to 0, and then track matted the glow layer to the relit smoke using Luma Matte.
Boom. Orange-tinted smoke that shifts color with the flickering fire.
You could technically just apply a Tint to the smoke and call it a day—but doing it this way means the light interacts dynamically with the smoke, based on the actual fire movement.
<h2>Step 9: Bonus Lighting</h2>
Need moonlight on the smoke too? Easy.
Just duplicate your relighting comp in the project panel, move the lights to match the moonlight position, and drag the duplicate into the main comp. Hold Alt while you drop it on top of the relit smoke layer to swap them.
Set the blending mode to Screen, add a Tint, and now you’ve got moonlight hitting your smoke too.
<h2>Final Touches</h2>
From there it’s all about dialing it in:
<ul>
<li>Adjust curves, hue/sat, exposure.</li>
<li>Move lights around.</li>
<li>Edit the normal or depth map if something feels off.</li>
<li>Add glow, camera shake, you name it.</li>
</ul>
You’re not locked into anything. The beauty of this method is it’s totally tweakable.
<h2>Why This Method Works</h2>
You’re taking 2D stock footage and tricking After Effects into treating it like 3D volumetrics—without ever leaving AE, and without needing full-on simulations.
And if you’re working on tight timelines or client work that doesn’t justify the Houdini pipeline? This will save you.
Give it a shot and drop a comment in the video if it helps!
<h2>High-Quality Smoke &amp; Fire Assets</h2>
At ActionVFX we house the world's largest library of 2D VFX stock elements, including fire and smoke assets regularly used in blockbuster movies and shows.
<a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library</a>
ActionVFX socials:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a>

Learn how to create a normal map and relight 2D stock assets in After Effects using free plugins.

Create a Normal Map in AE to Relight 2D Smoke Like It's 3D

If you’ve ever keyed out a green screen and ended up with your actor looking like they just stepped out of a toxic waste barrel — yeah, I’ve been there too.
That’s also a great way to make the audience go, “Oh... that’s fake.”
Which is also a great way to make your client or supervisor go, “Hey, you’re fired.”
So let’s fix that.
If you want your composites to look realistic, getting a clean key is non-negotiable. In this tutorial, we’ll walk through 5 key tips (pun unfortunately intended) for better chroma key results — using After Effects and Keylight as our tool of choice.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L1_Wx-IxsAA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Use a Properly Lit Green Screen</h2>
Before you even touch your software, the most important factor in getting a clean key is how your footage was shot.
First rule: make sure your green screen is evenly lit. No shadows, no bright spots, no weird gradients creeping across the background. Just a clean, flat green. Uneven lighting is one of the biggest causes of fringing and artifacts during keying.
Next, think about distance. The closer your subject is to the screen, the more green spill is going to bounce onto them. By giving your subject more space from the background, you cut down on that glow before it even starts — and your keyer will have a much easier time.
<blockquote></blockquote>
Bonus: Need some properly shot green screen footage to practice with? We've got a free <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Practice Footage Library</a>. It has several green screen shots to help you practicing keying and compositing.
<h2>When to Use a Blue Screen Instead of a Green Screen</h2>
In most cases, green screens are the go-to. They tend to key out cleanly in daylight scenes and play nice with natural lighting.
But there are times when blue makes more sense:
<ul>
<li>If your actor is wearing green, obviously.</li>
<li>If you’re shooting a nighttime or low-light scene — blue screens retain shadows better and preserve more detail in dark areas.</li>
</ul>
So if green’s giving you trouble, it might not be your fault. Switch colors when it makes sense.
<h2>How to Use Keylight in After Effects</h2>
Once you’ve got solid footage, it’s time to key — and if you’re in After Effects, Keylight is your friend. It’s powerful, free, and built right in.
Here's a quick breakdown:
<ul>
<li>Screen Colour: Use the eyedropper to select your background.</li>
<li>Screen Gain: Controls how aggressive the key is. Higher = more background removal (and more danger to your subject).</li>
<li>Screen Balance: Helps fix uneven lighting by adjusting the color channels.</li>
<li>Clip Black / Clip White: Fine-tune the matte edges. Clip Black removes leftover junk; Clip White locks in the solids.</li>
<li>Screen Matte View: Flip to this mode to see your alpha channel. It’ll show you what’s really being keyed — which is super helpful for fixing trouble spots.</li>
</ul>
Take your time here. Zoom in. Toggle between modes. This is where “meh” keys become production-ready.
<h2>Kill the Spill</h2>
Even with solid footage and a clean matte, green spill happens — especially around hair, fabric edges, or shiny surfaces.
<ul>
<li>Keylight has built-in spill suppression controls. Use them.</li>
<li>Tweak these after your matte is dialed in.</li>
<li>Desaturate or rebalance the edges to neutral tones.</li>
<li>Watch out for skin tones — don’t trade green glow for zombie skin.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Garbage Mattes: Not Glamorous, But Super Useful</h2>
Garbage mattes help your keyer focus only on the subject. That means:
<ul>
<li>Faster rendering</li>
<li>Less chance of noise and edge errorsFinal Polish: Matte Cleanup &amp; Edge Refinement
Once your key is mostly working, flip back to Screen Matte View and check your edges.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Final Polish: Matte Cleanup &amp; Edge Refinement</h2>
Once your key is mostly working, flip back to Screen Matte View and check your edges.
<ul>
<li>Use Clip Black/White to tighten things up.</li>
<li>Look for semi-transparent fuzz or inconsistent edges — especially in hair or fine detail.</li>
<li>You want clean, solid separation. No gray halos. No crunchy outlines.</li>
</ul>
This last step takes time, but it’s the difference between “that’s obviously keyed” and “wait... that’s composited?”
<h2>Practice Green Screen Keying</h2>
Want to practice? Download a few clips from the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Practice Footage Library</a> (500+ professionally-shot practice clips for compositors) and give it a try!
If you're unfamiliar with ActionVFX, we house the world's #1 trusted library of professional-grade VFX stock footage (things like fog, debris, explosions, fire, and more).
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library</a>
ActionVFX socials:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a>

6 easy tips for cleaner green screen keys in After Effects—learn how to light, key, suppress spill, and clean up your matte for pro-level results.

How to Fix Bad Green Screen Footage | Pro Chroma Key Tips for Cleaner VFX

You probably didn’t become a VFX artist because you love rotoscoping.
<a href="http://actionvfx.com/blog/introduction-to-rotoscoping-in-nuke">Frame-by-frame roto</a> is one of the most tedious tasks in compositing—especially when dealing with hair, fast motion, or complex shapes. But what if Nuke could learn how to do it for you?
That’s where CopyCat comes in. With the right setup, you can train your own AI model to generate mattes automatically, saving hours of manual work.
<h2>How to Train CopyCat for Rotoscoping</h2>
<a href="https://learn.foundry.com/nuke/content/reference_guide/air_nodes/copycat.html">CopyCat</a> works by analyzing a small set of hand-rotoscoped frames and learning to apply that same matte extraction across an entire shot. The key to getting great results? Training it properly. Here’s how:
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/cb1d88a6da/nuke-node-graph-manual-rotoscope.jpg" alt="">
<h3>1. Roto a Few Key Frames</h3>
Before CopyCat can generate mattes, it needs training data—clean mattes that show it what to learn.
<ul>
<li>Pick 5–10 unique keyframes throughout your shot. Choose frames where the subject’s shape varies the most (e.g., different poses or angles).</li>
<li>Create precise mattes using Nuke’s standard roto tools. The better these keyframes, the better CopyCat will perform.</li>
</ul>
Example: If you’re rotoscoping a person running, choose frames where their legs are in different positions.
If you're still learning the basics of Nuke, here's a great intro to Nuke rotoscoping:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ELg9ncl-0Wo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/b5e590e72a/nuke-copycat-rotoscoping-nodes.jpg" alt="">
<h3>2. Set Up and Train CopyCat</h3>
Once you have your training frames, it’s time to set up the CopyCat node.
<ul>
<li>Add a CopyCat node to your Nuke script.</li>
<li>Connect your original footage to the Input and your hand-made mattes to the Ground Truth input.</li>
</ul>
Next, adjust your training settings:
<ul>
<li>Start with low iterations (~1000-2000) for quick tests.</li>
<li>If the results are good, increase iterations.</li>
</ul>
Click Start Training, and let Nuke process the data. Depending on your settings, training might take a few minutes to an hour.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/389aa19741/nuke-inference-node-graph.jpg" alt="">
<ol start="3">
<li>Apply It to the Full Shot
Once training is complete and you're happy with the results, it's time to apply it to the full shot.</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>Click Create Inference in the CopyCat node. This generates an Inference node, which is used to process the full sequence.</li>
<li>Connect your full clip to the new Inference node.</li>
<li>CopyCat will now auto-generate mattes for every frame, saving you hours of manual roto.</li>
</ul>
If the results need improvement, refine your training frames, retrain the model, and apply again.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/c4b95e2c0e/man-crawling-in-building-with-gun.jpg" alt="">
<h2>Want to Practice? Download This Free Shot</h2>
To get the best results, start with the right kind of footage. This free practice clip of a man crawling through a building is perfect for learning or showcasing your roto skills with CopyCat.
<a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage/man-crawling-in-burning-room">Download the free clip here</a> and start automating your roto workflow!
Full tutorial from The Foundry:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SMlt0T-3QRQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
If you're interested in learning Nuke for free, check out our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/master-nuke-compositing-introduction-course">free 6-part introduction to Nuke course</a>.
ActionVFX socials:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a>

Learn how to train Nuke’s CopyCat to automate rotoscoping for complex motion.

How to Rotoscope in Nuke with CopyCat

Learn how to train Nuke’s CopyCat to automate rotoscoping for complex motion

If you want to build a career in high-end VFX compositing, learning The Foundry's Nuke is essential.
It’s the software used in major films, TV shows, and commercials because it’s built for high-end compositing. Unlike After Effects, where layers can get messy fast, Nuke’s node-based system gives you total control over every element of your shot.
To help you get started, we just launched a free Intro to Nuke course, led by <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/doughogan/">Doug Hogan</a>—a senior compositor with 18+ years of experience in the feature film industry. He’s worked on projects ranging from indie films to major productions, and in this 6-part course, he’ll guide you through the fundamentals of Nuke, breaking down complex concepts into clear, practical lessons.
What this 6-part course covers:
<ul>
<li>Understanding Nuke’s interface and workflow</li>
<li>The four essential nodes that power every composite</li>
<li>Green screen keying, masking, and advanced compositing techniques</li>
<li>3D compositing and integrating VFX elements</li>
<li>Industry best practices for structuring node graphs</li>
</ul>
Whether you're transitioning from After Effects or brand new to compositing, this course will teach you the right way to approach Nuke.
<h2>Chapter 1: Understanding Nuke’s Workflow</h2>
When you first open Nuke, it might feel overwhelming. The interface and workflow are vastly different from layer-based software like After Effects.
In Chapter 1, Doug walks you through:
<ul>
<li>The Nuke interface and how to navigate it</li>
<li>How to set up your first project</li>
<li>Loading and converting image sequences</li>
<li>Why node-based compositing offers more control than layers</li>
</ul>
📺 Watch Chapter 1:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zRTDfuz8G80" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>CHAPTER 2: The Four Essential Nodes for Every Composite</h2>
You don’t need to memorize hundreds of nodes to work in Nuke—most of your work will rely on just a few.
<ul>
<li>Read – Brings assets into Nuke</li>
<li>Merge – Controls how layers interact</li>
<li>Transform – Moves, scales, and rotates elements</li>
<li>Grade – Adjusts color and exposure for seamless blending</li>
</ul>
Master these, and you’re well on your way to building professional composites. In Chapter 2, Doug breaks down how each works, giving you the practical skills to start efficiently structuring your Nuke node graphs.
📺 Watch Chapter 2:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EgkScZEWoSk" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>CHAPTER 3: Rotoscoping and Masking Essentials</h2>
Rotoscoping and masking are foundational skills for every compositor, giving you the control needed to isolate elements and integrate them seamlessly into a shot.
<ul>
<li>Roto &amp; RotoPaint – Create and refine custom masks</li>
<li>Animated Masks – Add movement for dynamic compositing</li>
<li>Workflow Best Practices – Stay organized and efficient</li>
<li>Machine Learning Tools – Speed up rotoscoping with machine learning tools</li>
</ul>
Master these techniques, and you’ll be ready to tackle complex compositing challenges with precision. In Chapter 3, Doug walks you through these essential tools, ensuring you have the skills for roto and masking in Nuke.
📺 Watch Chapter 3:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CFZZMB3x8hY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>CHAPTER 4: Gridwarp &amp; Depth Maps for Realistic Compositing</h2>
In chapter 4, Doug teaches the tools that help you match elements to your scene with greater precision. You'll learn how to use Gridwarp and depth maps to control placement, add perspective, and build more realistic composites.
<ul>
<li>Element Integration – Add ActionVFX assets that feel like part of the shot</li>
<li>Gridwarp Tool – Bend, distort, and animate elements with control</li>
<li>Depth Maps – Use machine learning to generate accurate depth</li>
<li>Atmospheric Effects – Add fog and haze that responds to your scene’s depth</li>
</ul>
Doug breaks down how and when to use these tools so your shots feel cohesive and intentional. After this chapter, you’ll be ready to handle more complex composites with confidence.
📺 Watch Chapter 4:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CO6dGaBiX84" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>CHAPTER 5: Color Matching for Seamless Composites</h2>
In Chapter 5, Doug breaks down the color correction tools that make your elements blend naturally. You’ll learn how to match colors across your scene and make final adjustments that bring everything together visually.
<ul>
<li>Color Correction Tools – Use Grade, ColorCorrect, and HueShift nodes</li>
<li>Element Matching – Balance colors across different layers for realism</li>
<li>Final Adjustments – Refine contrast, saturation, and black points</li>
<li>Organic Touches – Add subtle camera shake for a natural finish</li>
</ul>
By the end of this chapter, your composites will look cleaner, more cohesive, and ready for final delivery.
📺 Watch Chapter 5:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rE_0JINOWYY" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>CHAPTER 6: Final Polish, Rendering, &amp; Professional Delivery</h2>
In Chapter 6, Doug shows you how to bring everything together into a fully polished shot. You’ll finalize your composite, fix visual issues, and add the last details that make your work feel studio-ready.
<ul>
<li>Final Touches – Clean up your composite and fix any errors</li>
<li>Color &amp; Effects – Apply subtle tweaks for consistency</li>
<li>Rendering – Export a finished sequence for review or delivery</li>
<li>Sound Design – Use machine learning tools to add immersive sound</li>
</ul>
This chapter ties it all together so your composite is ready for the big screen.
📺 Watch Chapter 6:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Rlp2TcBMNLU" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Each chapter builds on the last, taking you step by step into the world of professional compositing. Be sure to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">subscribe to our channel</a> so you don't miss upcoming tutorials!
<h2>Start Learning Nuke for Free</h2>
If you’re serious about VFX, this is your chance to learn from an industry expert at no cost.
Have any questions? Drop a comment in the videos and one of our artists will get back to you!
ActionVFX socials:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a>

Learn Nuke in this free 6-part course by Doug Hogan, starting with the fundamentals and building up to professional techniques.

Master Nuke Compositing: Free Introduction Course to Nuke

If you’re an ActionVFX user working in Adobe After Effects, you might have run into issues with certain assets in the DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4 color space. Since After Effects doesn’t natively support this format, getting the most out of these assets requires a few extra steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to properly interpret, transform, and composite DRAGONcolor2 assets while keeping all the original data intact.
<h2>Why Some Assets Use DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4</h2>
Many of our older assets were filmed on RED DSMC2 cameras, which used DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4 to retain as much data as possible. While this was a great choice for quality, Adobe After Effects doesn’t play nice with this color space—meaning your assets may look washed out or incorrect when imported. You might notice this on our older pyro collections like Window Fire or Gas Explosions Vol. 1, among a few others.
The good news? There's an easy way to fix this thanks to our friends at RED.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/900x506/61233150cf/red-camera-bts.jpg" alt="">
<h2>The Fix: Custom LUTs from RED</h2>
To solve this issue, RED developed custom LUTs specifically for ActionVFX users. These LUTs convert different RED gammas into a more usable format, making compositing in After Effects much easier.
🔥 Pro Tip: You can <a href="https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/uploads.actionvfx.com/public_downloads/REDGammaLUTs_64x_v02.zip">download these LUTs for free here</a>.
Before you get started, if you're not familiar with ACES color management and how it streamlines compositing, you'll need to check out our <a href="https://actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-use-aces-in-after-effects">ACES guide</a> first.
<h2>How to Set Up DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4 Assets in After Effects</h2>
Follow these steps to properly set up your assets and maintain full color accuracy.
You can follow step-by-step along with Sam in our tutorial:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/q249a3SH320" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
1. Set the Correct Input Color Space
<ul>
<li>Right-click your asset in the Project Window → Interpret Footage &gt; Main</li>
<li>Go to the Color Tab</li>
<li>Under Override Media Color Space, select: Input/RED/Input - RED - Linear - DRAGONcolor2</li>
</ul>
At this point, the colors will still look off—but don’t worry, we’re about to fix that.
2. Apply the RED LUT in Lumetri
<ul>
<li>Add the Lumetri Color effect to your asset</li>
<li>Under Basic Correction, locate the Input LUT option</li>
</ul>
Instead of using the default presets, we need to add one of the custom LUTs:
<ul>
<li>Open File Explorer</li>
<li>For Windows, navigate to: Local Disk &gt; Program Files &gt; Adobe &gt; Adobe After Effects &gt; Support Files &gt; Lumetri &gt; LUTs &gt; Technical</li>
<li>For Mac navigate to: Macintosh HD &gt; Applications &gt; Adobe After Effects &gt; Adobe After Effects.app (right click to “Show Package Contents”) &gt; Lumetri &gt; LUTs &gt; Technical</li>
<li>Drag and drop the RG4_2_LIN_64.cube LUT from the RED LUT pack into this folder</li>
<li>Restart After Effects</li>
<li>Now, in Lumetri’s Input LUT section, select RG4_2_LIN_64</li>
</ul>
Once applied, your footage will now display correctly in <a href="https://actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-use-aces-in-after-effects">ACES</a>, retaining all of its original data for proper compositing. Once the LUT is added to the correct folder, it will always be available in future projects.
<h2>Making This Process Even Faster</h2>
If you’re working with a lot of our DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4 assets in the same project, you can save time by applying your initial footage interpretations to multiple files at once.
Use “Remember Interpretation”
<ul>
<li>After setting up one asset, right-click it in the Project Window</li>
<li>Select Interpret Footage &gt; Remember Interpretation</li>
<li>Now, apply this interpretation to multiple assets at once by selecting them, right-clicking, and choosing Apply Interpretation</li>
<li>Add Lumetri once the asset is in your Comp</li>
<li>Select your RG4_2_LIN_64 LUT as your Input LUT</li>
</ul>
Final Thoughts
By following this workflow, you’ll ensure your DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4 assets composite seamlessly into your After Effects projects without any color issues.
Need high-quality VFX assets? ActionVFX has over 11,000 professional-grade elements](https://actionvfx.com/products), from fire, smoke, rain, and explosions to muzzle flashes and debris—all designed to integrate smoothly into your workflow.
👉 <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Check out our library and start compositing with the best assets available!</a>

How to use RED's custom LUT to fix color issues with DRAGONcolor2 REDgamma4 assets in After Effects.

Fix Color Issues in After Effects with FREE LUTs

Have you ever struggled to get VFX elements to blend seamlessly into your scene? The key to pro-level compositing isn’t just <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/after-effects-quick-tip-how-to-light-your-vfx-elements-using-normal-pass">lighting</a> or effects—it’s understanding color spaces.
In our latest video, Sam breaks down how color spaces impact your composite and why ACES (Academy Color Encoding System) is a game-changer for standardizing colors across different assets.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pYzN_g-1N_w" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Why Color Spaces Matter</h2>
Cameras, monitors, and software all interpret colors differently. If you’re using footage from multiple sources, mismatched color spaces can cause assets to look completely out of place. That’s where ACES comes in—it acts as a universal translator, ensuring all your elements exist in a consistent color space.
To understand this a little deeper, you can check out our blog on <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/the-difference-between-linear-and-logarithmic-color-space-and-why-you-should-care">linear and logarithmic color spaces</a>.
<h2>How ACES Works in Compositing</h2>
ACES uses input and output transforms to standardize footage:
<ul>
<li>Input Transform – Converts your footage’s original color space into ACES.</li>
<li>Output Transform – Converts ACES footage back into the final deliverable color space.</li>
</ul>
The best part? All major compositing software, including After Effects and Nuke, have the ACES workflow system built-in. You can preview your composite in your final delivery format while still working with high-quality data.
🔥 Pro Tip: After Effects doesn’t have a built-in transform for DRAGONcolor2 / REDgamma4 assets. <a href="https://actionvfx.com/blog/fix-color-issues-in-after-effects-free-luts">Check out our other blog to learn how to set it up properly.</a>
<h2>Setting Up ACES in After Effects</h2>
1. Change Project Settings
<ul>
<li>Go to File &gt; Project Settings &gt; Color and switch to OCIO Color Managed.</li>
</ul>
2. Set the Footage Input Color Space
<ul>
<li>Right-click footage → Interpret Footage &gt; Main &gt; Color tab</li>
<li>Select the correct input transform (e.g., REDWideGamutRGB / REDLog3G10).</li>
</ul>
3. Blend Different Color Spaces Seamlessly
<ul>
<li>When working with multiple assets (e.g., Rec.709, DRAGONcolor2), use the correct transforms to unify their look.</li>
</ul>
4. Render in the Original Color Space
<ul>
<li>When exporting, set the Output Color Space to match your footage for easier grading.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why ActionVFX Assets Are Built for ACES</h2>
At ActionVFX, we provide assets in multiple color spaces—Rec.709, Linear, ACEScg, DRAGONcolor2, and more—so you can get the best data for your composite. We even list the color space on each product page, making it easy to match your workflow.
🔥 Pro Tip: Always check an asset’s color space before starting your composite. Otherwise, Sam might show up at your house to fix your input transform himself. (You’ve been warned.)
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1739x978/d74ca4eb31/actionvfx-asset-specs.jpg" alt="">
<h2>Watch the Full Video for a Hands-On Walkthrough</h2>
Sam walks through ACES setup in After Effects, including how to interpret footage, apply helpful LUTs, and ensure every asset blends perfectly. He even shares a trick for copying and applying Interpret Footage settings across multiple assets.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pYzN_g-1N_w" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Need premium assets for your next project? Check out the ActionVFX library! We're proud to house what's widely considered the world's best VFX library for professional compositing.
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library</a>
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ACES standardizes color spaces across different assets, all assets in your shot blend naturally. Learn how to set it up in After Effects.

How to Use ACES in After Effects (& Why Color Spaces Matter)

The <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a0JMSj5xdFk">Captain America: Brave New World</a> trailer showed off some intense action, including Red Hulk making a fiery entrance. In this tutorial, our very own Wyatt turned himself into Red Hulk in After Effects.
Learn how to make Hulk's glowing eyes, red skin, expanding hands, and ground-shattering impact.
The best part? You can do it all for just five credits or less using the ActionVFX library.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3SdkmysscnI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Here's a quick rundown:
<h3>Step 1: Turning Your Skin Red</h3>
The first thing we need to do is change skin color. Using After Effects, you can create this effect by:
<ul>
<li>Duplicating your base footage</li>
<li>Using the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/when-should-i-use-after-effects-roto-brush-tool">Roto Brush Tool</a> to isolate skin areas</li>
<li>Applying a Tint effect and mapping black/white values to a deep red</li>
<li>Adjusting brightness, contrast, and blending modes to make it look natural</li>
</ul>
By keyframing the effect, you can make the transformation happen gradually, just like in the movies.
<h3>Step 2: Adding Glowing Red Eyes</h3>
No Hulk transformation is complete without those intense glowing eyes. Here’s how to do it:
<ul>
<li>Mask out your eyes so they stay unaffected by the red skin tone</li>
<li>Import an ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/eye-textures-stock-footage">iris texture</a> (included in the Essentials Catalog)</li>
<li>Scale and position it over the eye and set the blend mode to Overlay</li>
<li>Use <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-do-motion-tracking-with-mocha-ae-beginner-friendly-after-effects-tutorial">Mocha tracking</a> to lock it in place</li>
<li>Add a glow effect to make them pop</li>
</ul>
This technique makes the eyes look alive and dynamic, rather than just color overlays.
<h3>Step 3: Creating a Ground-Smashing Impact</h3>
This is where things get destructive. When Red Hulk smashes the ground, you'll need:
<ul>
<li>Ground cracks</li>
<li>Burning steel wool effects to simulate fire spreading (<a href="https://actionvfx.com/redeem">redeem for free</a> with code &quot;HULK&quot;)</li>
<li>Steam and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-dust-wave-stock-footage">dust waves</a> help sell the impact</li>
</ul>
To make it work seamlessly:
<ul>
<li>Track the ground plane so the cracks match the perspective</li>
<li>Use <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-blending-modes-work-in-after-effects">blending modes</a> like Overlay or Screen to integrate the effects</li>
<li>Add motion blur to enhance realism</li>
<li>Keyframe opacity changes so the fire and smoke evolve naturally over time</li>
</ul>
<h3>Bringing It All Together</h3>
With these elements in place, you can refine the scene by:
<ul>
<li>Layering <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/atmosphere/category">atmospheric effects</a> like embers, sparks, and dust</li>
<li>Adding subtle <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-camera-shake-presets-stock-footage">camera shake</a> for extra impact</li>
<li>Fine-tuning depth of field to make everything feel cinematic</li>
</ul>
<h2>Try It Yourself (Free Asset Included!)</h2>
Ready to give it a shot? Watch the full tutorial and grab a free burning steel wool asset in the video description before February 26th.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SdkmysscnI">Watch the full tutorial</a>
<h3>MCU-Trusted VFX Assets</h3>
We're proud that our assets were trusted by some of the world's best VFX artists to help make the MCU a reality. These same assets are available to you, whether you're part of a large studio or are a freelance artist!
Build your own subscription plan:
<ul>
<li>All subscribers get access to the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">Essentials Catalog</a>, which contains over 3,000 Hollywood-quality VFX assets (new additions every month).</li>
<li>Access the rest of our library with credits. Choose discounted recurring credits or buy the exact number you need with credit packs.</li>
<li>Choose to receive monthly rollover credits, or get all of your credits upfront with a discounted annual plan.</li>
<li>Plans start at just $29/mo</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">Get started</a>
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Wyatt turned into Red Hulk from Captain America: Brave New World using After Effects and a low budget.

Become Red Hulk | After Effects VFX Tutorial

We all know by now that <a href="https://youtu.be/7ttG90raCNo?feature=shared">Tom Cruise kind of lied to us</a> about their use of CG in Top Gun: Maverick. If you're one of the <a href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1745960/fullcredits">761 CG and VFX artists</a> who worked on the film, we appreciate your hard work!
Well the good news for VFX artists is that you don't need a pilot's license to make a Top Gun quality movie. In fact, all you really need is <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-best-3d-vfx-software">good 3D and compositing software</a> and an <a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">ActionVFX subscription</a>.
I recreated a scene from Top Gun: Maverick spending only 10 credits (<a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">$69.30 during Black Friday!</a>) at ActionVFX. No, it's not quite Top Gun quality (I threw it together in less than a week), but you get a pretty good idea of what's possible with high-quality VFX assets.
Here's the full tutorial:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l5sA8SEgY1k" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
This Tutorial Covers:
<ul>
<li>Importing and animating 3D jet models in Blender.</li>
<li>Creating missile trails using Blender's particle systems.</li>
<li>Simulating handheld camera movements using Blender noise modifiers.</li>
<li>Using HDRIs and Sky Textures for realistic lighting in Blender.</li>
<li>Rendering <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/learn-how-to-use-exr-files-like-the-pros-ae-quick-tips-tutorial">EXR</a> multi-pass outputs for compositing in After Effects.</li>
<li>Compositing explosions, debris, and heat distortion effects in After Effects.</li>
</ul>
Assets Used in Tutorial:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/f-15e-strike-eagle-fighter-jet-3D-model">F-15 Strike Eagle Fighter Jet</a> (4 credits)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/f16-fighter-jet-3d-model">F-16 Fighter Jet</a> (4 credits)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/steam-jets-stock-footage">Steam Jets</a> (free for subscribers)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/gun-smoke-stock-footage">Gun Smoke Vol. 1</a> (free for subscribers)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/falling-ashes-stock-footage">Falling Ashes</a> (free for subscribers)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/jet-flames-stock-footage">Jet Flames</a> (free for subscribers)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/aerial-explosions-vol-2-stock-footage/8273">Air Explosion</a> (1 credit)</li>
</ul>
If you're new to ActionVFX, we are considered the <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">industry's best VFX library</a>. Our almost 12,000 assets (and counting!) are regularly used in blockbuster movies, shows, and games like Godzilla Minus One, Avengers: Endgame, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, Stranger Things, and Call of Duty.
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library</a>
You can try out our assets with a Free Forever Plan, or access our entire library with credits starting at $59!
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">View Plans</a>
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We remade a scene from Top Gun: Maverick in Blender and After Effects using ActionVFX assets. Follow along!

Remaking Top Gun: Maverick WITH CGI | Blender & After Effects Tutorial

We remade a scene from Top Gun: Maverick in Blender and After Effects using ActionVFX assets costing only 10 credits.

Our latest tutorial blew our minds.
Okay not really. But Wyatt, our Digital Content Creator, shows how he created a head explosion effect inspired by a scene from The Boys. All it took was a little work in After Effects and Blender with some <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-gore/category">ActionVFX blood assets</a>.
This tutorial covers:
<ul>
<li>Masking and tracking techniques with Mocha in After Effects.</li>
<li>Integrating ActionVFX blood assets with practical blood FX.</li>
<li>Using lens flares to add a flashing device.</li>
<li>Compositing gore and blood splatter in 3D.</li>
<li>Creating realistic camera shake.</li>
</ul>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2kEP8YF76Tc" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
VFX assets used:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-hits-stock-footage">Blood Hits</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-mist-vol-2-stock-footage">Blood Mist Vol. 2</a></li>
</ul>
If you enjoyed this tutorial, be sure to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more content like it!
<h2>Best Blood and Gore VFX</h2>
First time here? At ActionVFX, it's our mission to be the world's undisputed best library for visual effects stock footage. Our assets are regularly used in blockbusters, major TV shows, and game franchises like Godzilla Minus One, The Walking Dead, and Spider-Man: Far from Home.
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library!</a>
ActionVFX socials:
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We recreated a head explosion from a scene in The Boys. Here's how we did it using After Effects and Blender.

Head Explosion VFX Tutorial | After Effects

Wyatt recreated a head explosion from a scene in The Boys. Here's how he did it using After Effects and Blender.

In this Blender tutorial, Tom recreates a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles as depicted in Fallout.
You’ll learn how to use the GIS plugin to set up your cityscape, how to import VDB assets, and how to create realistic volumetric effects and textures in Blender.
Watch the full tutorial:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YMDNKUrcReo" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Prerequisites</h2>
Before we begin, ensure you have the following:
<ul>
<li>Free VDB Shader from ActionVFX: <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/free-vdb-shader-3d-assets">Download Here</a></li>
<li>3D Nuclear Explosion Assets from ActionVFX: <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/nuclear-explosions-3d-assets">Download Here</a></li>
<li>A basic understanding of Blender's interface and tools.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 1: How to Set Up Your VDB Shader</h3>
<ul>
<li>Open Blender and load the free VDB shader you downloaded.</li>
<li>Use Ctrl + O to open the shader file.</li>
<li>Extract the files from the .zip and open the .blend file.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 2: Setting Up the Scene</h3>
Creating the Environment
<ul>
<li>Decide on your environment. For this tutorial, we'll use a cityscape inspired by the show Fallout.</li>
<li>Install the Blender GIS plugin:</li>
<li>Go to Edit &gt; Preferences &gt; Add-ons &gt; Install.</li>
<li>Locate the GIS plugin .zip file, install, and enable it.</li>
<li>Close the Preferences window and access the GIS tab in the 3D Viewport by pressing N.</li>
</ul>
Importing Map Data
<ul>
<li>In the GIS tab, select Web geodata &gt; Import OSM.</li>
<li>Search for the desired location or use coordinates to pinpoint your area.</li>
<li>Extract the area into a plane and obtain the elevation data using the Get Elevation option.</li>
<li>Import buildings using GIS &gt; Basemap &gt; Get OSM. Ensure elevate from object is enabled.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 3: Texturing the Scene</h3>
<ul>
<li>Download a seamless glass building texture from Textures.com.</li>
<li>In Blender, open new windows for the UV Editor and Shader Editor.</li>
<li>Create a new texture and name it Glass.</li>
<li>In the Shader Editor, add an Image Texture, load your texture, and link it to the base color.</li>
</ul>
Use UV Mapping to apply the texture:
<ul>
<li>Enter side view (NumPad 3 or NumPad 1).</li>
<li>Select buildings and enter Edit Mode (Tab).</li>
<li>Unwrap UVs (U) and adjust the texture in the UV Editor.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 4: Adding HDRI Lighting</h3>
Add an HDRI environment for realistic lighting:
<ul>
<li>Go to the World tab in the Properties panel.</li>
<li>Click Color &gt; Environment Texture and load your HDRI file.</li>
<li>Adjust the lighting to enhance the overall scene.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 5: Importing and Positioning the Explosion</h3>
Import the VDB explosion asset:
<ul>
<li>Go to File &gt; Import &gt; Volume and select your VDB file.</li>
</ul>
Position the explosion in your scene:
<ul>
<li>Scale it appropriately using S and move it with G.</li>
<li>Adjust the shader settings to match your scene's lighting.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Step 6: Final Adjustments and Rendering</h3>
<ul>
<li>Fine-tune the position and scale of your explosion.</li>
</ul>
Set up your camera for the best shot:
<ul>
<li>Align the camera to your view (Ctrl + Alt + NumPad 0).</li>
<li>Adjust the view clipping if necessary.</li>
<li>Render your scene (F12).</li>
</ul>
For more resources like this, be sure to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">subscribe to our YouTube channel</a>!
At ActionVFX, we exist to advance the careers of VFX and 3D artists. If you're looking for production-quality 3D models and animated VDBs, <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">explore our 3D library</a>.
ActionVFX socials:
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">YouTube</a> - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/actionvfx/">Facebook</a> - <a href="https://www.instagram.com/actionvfxofficial/">Instagram</a> - <a href="https://twitter.com/actionvfx?lang=en">X</a> - <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@actionvfxofficial?lang=en">TikTok</a> - <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/actionvfx">Linkedin</a>

Learn how to create a realistic nuclear explosion in Blender using ActionVFX’s free VDB shader and 3D VDBs.

How to Create a Nuclear Explosion in Blender with VDBs

Selecting the right <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">3D assets for your VFX project</a> is crucial for creating realistic and immersive experiences. Whether you're working on a film, video game, or architectural visualization, the quality and technical specifications of your chosen assets can make or break your project. This comprehensive technical checklist guides you through the process of choosing the best 3D assets for your needs.
<h2>The Significance of 3D Assets in VFX and Animation</h2>
The 3D assets you choose directly impact the viewer's experience and the effectiveness of your storytelling. Poorly made or incompatible assets can lead to visual inconsistencies, performance issues, and a subpar end result.
<h2>Key Factors to Consider When Selecting 3D Assets</h2>
When choosing 3D assets for your project, there are several critical factors to keep in mind:
<h3>1. Compatibility with Your Software and Pipeline</h3>
Ensure that the assets you select are compatible with your <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-best-3d-vfx-software">preferred 3D software</a>, game engine, or rendering pipeline. Check the file formats, versions, and any specific requirements to avoid compatibility issues down the line. For example, if you're using Autodesk Maya, make sure the assets are available in .ma or .mb file formats or are provided in a universally compatible file format such as FBX or OBJ. Assets that seamlessly integrate into your existing workflow will save you time and minimize technical headaches.
<h3>2. Polygon Count and Level of Detail (LOD)</h3>
Consider the polygon count and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/what-are-3d-assets-learn-more-about-3d-models-alembics-vdbs-and-more">Level of Detail (LOD)</a> of assets in relation to your project's requirements and target platform. Higher polygon counts result in more detailed assets but can also significantly impact performance, particularly in real-time applications like video games. It is crucial to find the right balance between visual fidelity and optimization to ensure smooth rendering and real-time performance.
Many 3D models, <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">such as those from ActionVFX</a>, come with multiple predefined LODs. If the model is further away from the camera, a lower LOD can be used. This setup helps manage rendering resources effectively, especially in complex scenes.
<h3>3. Texturing and Materials</h3>
Pay close attention to the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-import-3d-models-with-udim-textures">texturing</a> and materials of the assets. High-quality textures with appropriate resolution and detail enhance the realism and visual appeal of your scenes. Look for assets with well-crafted PBR textures (Physically Based Rendering textures) that accurately represent the intended materials and surfaces.
For example, a realistic metal surface should have a properly authored specular map that reflects light accurately, while a character's skin should have subsurface scattering properties for a lifelike appearance. Notice the reflection properties in this still-frame shot of an <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/mig-29-fulcrum-fighter-jet-3d-model">MiG-29 Fulcrum Fighter Jet model</a>, for example.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/4310554b52/mig_29_fulcrum_fighter_jet_3d-model.jpg" alt="">
<h3>4. Rigging and Animation</h3>
If your project involves character animation, evaluate the rigging and animation setup of the character models. A well-rigged asset with properly named and organized hierarchy allows for easier animation and integration into your pipeline. Consider the flexibility and compatibility of the rigging system with your animation tools and techniques. For instance, if you're using a specific animation plugin or workflow, ensure that the character rig is compatible and can be easily manipulated within your pipeline.
<h2>Understanding the Technical Aspects of 3D Assets</h2>
Understanding the technical aspects of 3D assets is essential for making informed decisions during the selection process.
<h3>1. Topology and Edge Flow</h3>
Analyze the topology and edge flow of the assets, particularly for character models and organic shapes. A clean and optimized topology with evenly distributed polygons and logical edge loops facilitates smoother deformations, animation, and texturing. Well-constructed assets with proper topology reduce artifacts and ensure better performance.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zSLELihVi6I" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h3>2. UV Mapping and Texture Density</h3>
Examine the <a href="https://www.g2.com/articles/uv-mapping">UV mapping</a> and texture density of the assets. Properly laid out UV maps ensure accurate texture placement and minimize distortion. Consider the texture resolution and density in relation to your project's requirements. Higher resolution textures offer more detail but impact memory usage and loading times. Strike a balance that maintains visual fidelity while optimizing performance.
<h3>3. Shading and Rendering</h3>
Evaluate the shading and rendering settings of the assets. Look for assets that <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/mastering-your-3d-assets-essential-tutorials-shaders-and-resources">include appropriate shaders</a>, materials, and rendering parameters compatible with your rendering engine. Consider factors such as shader complexity, light interactions, and transparency to ensure the assets integrate seamlessly into your rendering pipeline and produce the desired visual results. If you're using a physically-based rendering (PBR) workflow, for example, make sure the assets include PBR-compatible textures that are compatible with your render engine.
Be sure to check out our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/free-vdb-shader-3d-assets">free Blender Pyro Shader</a>.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3DFteGwtky8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
<h2>Selecting the Right 3D Assets</h2>
Now that you understand the technical considerations, let's walk through the process of selecting 3D assets step by step.
<h3>1. Define Your Project Requirements</h3>
Begin by clearly defining your project's requirements and objectives. Determine the specific types of assets you need, such as characters, environments, props, or visual effects elements. Consider the art style, level of detail, and intended use of the assets within your project.
<h3>2. Research and Evaluate Asset Libraries</h3>
Explore reputable asset libraries and marketplaces, such as the <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">ActionVFX 3D Library</a>, to find a wide range of high-quality assets. Take advantage of search filters, categories, and tags to narrow down your options based on your project's needs. Read asset descriptions, view sample renders, and watch demonstration videos to assess the quality and suitability of the assets. Take the time to assess the asset's polygon count, texture resolution, materials, and overall visual fidelity to ensure it aligns with your project's requirements and quality standards.
<h3>3. Test and Integrate Assets</h3>
Before finalizing your selection, it can be helpful to test the assets within your project's context. Download <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/9mm-bullets">sample files</a> or purchase individual assets to evaluate their performance, visual quality, and compatibility with your pipeline. Integrate the assets into your scenes and assess how they interact with other elements, such as lighting, shading, and animation.
<h3>4. Optimize and Iterate</h3>
Once you've selected and integrated the assets, optimize them for your specific project requirements. Adjust texture resolutions, and shading settings to strike the right balance between visual fidelity and performance. Iterate and refine the assets as needed to ensure they seamlessly blend with your project's overall aesthetic and technical constraints.
<h2>Invest in the Right 3D Assets</h2>
Remember, investing in high-quality assets from <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">trusted sources like the ActionVFX 3D Library</a> can save you time, effort, and resources in the long run. Depending on your needs, it may be worth purchasing a higher-quality, flexible asset that can be used in several projects over investing in a low-quality 3D model that will only serve a single project.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F9nRuRwd3cA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
At ActionVFX, we are proud to be the industry leader in reliable, <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">production-quality VFX assets</a>, and our <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">expanding 3D asset library</a> has already proved invaluable for 3D artists across the filmmaking, VFX, and gaming industries.
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">Explore the 3D Library</a>
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A comprehensive technical checklist for choosing high-quality 3D assets for VFX or animation projects.

Technical Checklist for Selecting 3D Assets

If you want to create a realistic day-to-night conversion in Nuke, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. From how the scene is shot to the use of stock footage elements, you need to know what you're doing to get the most realistic result.
In this tutorial, we'll show you how to turn daytime footage into a stunning night scene using The Foundry's Nuke. We'll start by importing the footage and setting up the compositing environment. Then, we'll use a combination of ActionVFX elements and color correction techniques to adjust the lighting and atmosphere of the shot.
By the end of this tutorial, you'll know how to create a seamless day-to-night conversion for your scene.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DpORZZeXF14" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Ready to follow along? <a href="https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBcDRKIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--6751f238b0b6710594c7bf69a64c1dfd66b2ae7f/Day%20To%20Night%20Project%20Files.zip">Download the background plate</a> here.
<h2>This Nuke tutorial will cover:</h2>
<ul>
<li>Tips on how to shoot plates appropriately for day-to-night conversions</li>
<li>How to use color correction nodes during the conversion process</li>
<li>How to use the ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/haze-and-light-fog-stock-footage">Haze &amp; Light Fog</a> and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/air-particles-stock-footage">Air Particles</a> collections to create an atmosphere</li>
<li>How to create a fake light cast using the color correction technique</li>
</ul>
<h2>ActionVFX Collections Featured:</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/haze-and-light-fog-stock-footage">Haze &amp; Light Fog</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/air-particles-stock-footage">Air Particles</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/361a04dce9/day-to-night-thumbnail-plain-1.jpg" alt="">
ActionVFX houses the world's largest library of Hollywood-standard VFX assets. If you've seen any major TV series or blockbuster movie in the past few years, you've probably seen our assets! If you're looking for <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">VFX assets</a>, or <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d">3D models and VDBs</a>, you're in the right place.
If you're working on your demo reel or looking to practice techniques like converting day into night, our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Practice Footage Library</a> contains over 500 professionally-shot practice clips for compositors.
ActionVFX socials:
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In this tutorial, we'll show you how to create a day-to-night conversion in The Foundry's Nuke that looks natural and realistic.

Create a Seamless Day-to-Night Conversion | Nuke Tutorial

The face is a picture of the mind with the eyes as its interpreter. - Marcus Tullius Cicero
Eyes convey a wealth of emotion and narrative depth, making them a focal point in many cinematic moments. Eye replacement might sound like something that is only used in movies with huge budgets for special effects, but the truth is, this skill can come in handy for a lot of different projects.
Whether you're working on a low-budget indie film or simply trying to change the color of an actor's eye in post-production, learning how to do realistic eye replacement will give you a valuable post-production tool.
In this tutorial, you will learn how to create a realistic eye replacement using VFX assets from our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/eye-textures-stock-footage">Eye Textures collection</a> in Adobe After Effects.
Want to follow along?
<ul>
<li><a href="https://filmpac.com/footage/clips/FFAAI1804/eyes-looking-up-in-a-wintry-forest/">Download the background plate</a> from FILMPAC</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/realistic-eye-replacement-vfx-after-effects-tutorial">Download our Eye Textures collection</a></li>
</ul>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/I3mqFfm4eC8" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
This After Effects tutorial covers:
<ul>
<li>How to track eyeballs in <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/3-tips-all-mocha-users-need-to-know">Mocha for AE</a></li>
<li>How to composite elements from the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/eye-textures-stock-footage">Eye Textures collection</a> to live eyeball.</li>
<li>How to add fake reflections to create a more realistic result.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Step-by-Step Guide on How to Add Eye Textures in After Effects:</h2>
1. Prepare Footage and Track the Eye:
<ul>
<li>Import your footage into After Effects.</li>
<li>Use Mocha (free version) to track the eye movement, creating an elliptical mask around the cornea.</li>
</ul>
2. Adjust Mask and Track:
<ul>
<li>Refine the mask in Mocha to fit the cornea and prevent drift during tracking.</li>
</ul>
3. Apply the Eye Texture:
<ul>
<li>Import an <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/eye-textures-stock-footage">ActionVFX Eye Texture</a>, scale it down, and convert it to a 3D layer.</li>
<li>Position it over the tracked eye and feather the edges for a natural blend.</li>
</ul>
4. Color Correction:
<ul>
<li>Use Hue/Saturation and Levels to match the eye texture's color and contrast with the footage.</li>
</ul>
5. Add Reflection:
<ul>
<li>Create a reflection using a panoramic image with the CC Sphere effect.</li>
<li>Adjust the reflection's intensity and blend it using the Screen mode.</li>
</ul>
6. Composite and Add Shadows:
<ul>
<li>Use a track matte to blend the eye texture and reflection within the eye socket.</li>
<li>Add shadows with a feathered mask to enhance depth.</li>
</ul>
7. Final Refinements:
<ul>
<li>Pre-compose the eye texture for easy updates.</li>
<li>For a second eye, repeat the process with a different tracking point.</li>
</ul>
If you enjoyed this tutorial, be sure to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqygDczqPpXGYqHXtcsmyFg">follow us on YouTube</a> and subscribe to our email list in the website footer!
To get access to thousands of production-quality VFX assets like the Eye Textures collection, <a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">become an ActionVFX subscriber</a> today!
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library of effects</a>
ActionVFX socials:
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In this tutorial, we will learn how to create a realistic eye replacement using VFX in Adobe After Effects.

Realistic Eye Replacement VFX | After Effects Tutorial

To create a realistic and convincing final product, it is important to use the right compositing software for your project. As Wren from Corridor Digital said during our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhBCiw7LJNo">VFX Hangout livestream recently</a>, The Foundry's Nuke is an excellent option for compositing.
In this tutorial, we will be learning the basics of compositing fire and smoke elements in Nuke. This will include how to create light interaction effects, as well as other tips and tricks on creating a burning car scene.
Download the <a href="https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBbzRKIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--ad7f1c52261e8848dbadda5c151ab37cf752d043/Nuke%20Fire%20Project%20File.zip">project files</a> to follow along.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x07hitIobtA" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
This Nuke tutorial will cover:
<ul>
<li>How to create a realistic fire glow.</li>
<li>How to composite a smoke effect.</li>
<li>How to composite ActionVFX elements such as <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-fire-vol-2-stock-footage">Ground Fire Vol. 2</a> and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/large-scale-smoke-plumes-stock-footage">Large Scale Smoke Plumes Vol. 1</a>.</li>
<li>How to create a fake light interaction that looks realistic.</li>
</ul>
ActionVFX Collections Used:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-fire-stock-footage">Ground Fire Vol. 1</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-fire-vol-2-stock-footage">Ground Fire Vol. 2</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/wall-fire-stock-footage">Wall Fire</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/small-scale-smoke-plumes-stock-footage">Small Scale Smoke Plumes</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/large-scale-smoke-plumes-stock-footage">Large Scale Smoke Plumes Vol. 1</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire-embers-stock-footage">Fire Embers</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/haze-and-light-fog-stock-footage">Haze &amp; Light Fog</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage/man-blows-up-truck-with-gas">Background plate (free)</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x823/a6b1d16611/compositing-fire-in-nuke-vfx-tutorial.jpeg" alt="">
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In this tutorial, we're going to learn how to composite fire and smoke elements using The Foundry’s Nuke.

How to Composite Fire in Nuke | VFX Tutorial

Compositing blood VFX elements is a great way to enhance the look of your project - but if done incorrectly, it can take the viewer out of the action and look forced or overdone. The key is in the details of the shot.
Paying attention to the light, color, and movement of the blood to make sure it looks realistic can really wow your audience!
In this tutorial, we'll show you some quick tips and tricks for compositing blood elements into a live-action video shot! We'll cover how to choose the best elements for the shot and blend them seamlessly with the environment.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YJl_dWeOLlI" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
Ready to follow along?
<ul>
<li><a href="https://cms.actionvfx.com/rails/active_storage/blobs/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBamdKIiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJibG9iX2lkIn19--c90398eb7aca1682f64f8429ca35a61ae1854bc9/Blood%20Compositing%20Background%20Plate.mp4">Download the background plate</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-hits-stock-footage">Blood Hits</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-splatter-vol-2-stock-footage">Blood Splatter Vol. 2</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-mist-vol-2-stock-footage">Blood Mist Vol. 2</a> (free for subscribers)</li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-blood-mist-stock-footage">Free Blood Mist</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/bleeding-fabric-stock-footage">Bleeding Fabric</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/gore-textures-stock-footage">Gore Textures</a> (free for subscribers)</li>
</ul>
This After Effects tutorial will cover:
<ul>
<li>How to create a realistic bullet wound.</li>
<li>How to add the blood effect after the bullet hit.</li>
<li>How to color match the blood to the surrounding environment.</li>
<li>How to add Blood Mist and Blood Splatter for the most realistic results.</li>
</ul>
If this tutorial was helpful to you, be sure to <a href="https://youtube.com/actionvfxofficial">subscribe to our YouTube channel</a>! We also have a <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">free library of movie-quality practice footage</a> available for compositors.
<a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore VFX stock footage</a>
ActionVFX socials:
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In this tutorial, learn some quick tips and tricks for compositing blood in After Effects.

Create a Normal Map in AE to Relight 2D Smoke Like It's 3D

Create a Normal Map in AE to Relight 2D Smoke Like It's 3D

How to Fix Bad Green Screen Footage | Pro Chroma Key Tips for Cleaner VFX

How to Rotoscope in Nuke with CopyCat

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Head Explosion VFX Tutorial | After Effects

How to Create a Nuclear Explosion in Blender with VDBs

Technical Checklist for Selecting 3D Assets

Create a Seamless Day-to-Night Conversion | Nuke Tutorial

Realistic Eye Replacement VFX | After Effects Tutorial

How to Composite Fire in Nuke | VFX Tutorial

Compositing Blood Tutorial | After Effects Quick Tips