Digital Compositing III is a course focused on the study and practice of advanced digital compositing techniques applied to images for animation and visual effects. It introduces students to professional industry workflows, deepening their use of specialized tools such as UV projections, SmartVectors, Deep Compositing, 2D/3D integration, and advanced color configurations including ACES and OCIO.
Titular Professors
You must have achieved the contents and competencies from Digital Compositing II, as this course delves into advanced digital compositing techniques and tools. Students must know and be able to use node?based digital compositing systems and have prior experience with Nuke, since the course works with advanced functionalities such as UVs, SmartVectors, Deep Compositing, 2D/3D integration, and ACES/OCIO workflows.
The course aims for students to master advanced digital compositing techniques and tools, acquiring the technical and practical knowledge needed to tackle real?world projects with professional standards. It is intended for students to be able to apply industry?standard compositing procedures, integrating best practices and reflecting on how they are used in professional environments. Students must develop a coherent and structured methodology, including project definition, creative execution, and thorough review with quality control.
1. Introduction and review of basic techniques
- Presentation of the course, evaluation criteria, and naming conventions
- Initial basic integration exercise
- Screen replacement, blending modes, and chroma key review
- Advanced Nuke configurations and preferences
- Introduction to ACES and OCIO color spaces
2. Advanced digital compositing techniques
- Technical explanation of UVs and poster replacement
- Integration, projection, and use of masks
- Functionality and application of SmartVectors
- Introduction to and practice with Deep Compositing techniques
3. Combination of techniques
- Chroma key and relighting techniques
- Integration of 3D and 2D elements into live?action shots
4. Clean plates and masks
- Creation of clean plates and tools for removing unwanted elements
- Rotoscoping: techniques and workflow
5. Machine learning and future directions
- Introduction to CopyCat and Cattery as machine?learning tools applied to compositing
The methodology of the course is based on active teaching strategies, with a strong emphasis on project?based learning. Although some lectures are given, the course is primarily structured around demonstrative and practical sessions in which students work individually under the supervision and continuous feedback of the teaching staff.
At certain points, problem?based learning is applied to expose students to situations that push them out of their comfort zone, encouraging the resolution of complex challenges through the combination of techniques and the application of theoretical concepts. Each session begins with addressing any pending questions and continues with a theoretical–practical component that provides the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve the intended objectives.
Additionally, the course is complemented by didactic activities and specialized audiovisual material that help students become familiar with technical terminology and strengthen their professional development. At the beginning of the semester, the exercises that make up the continuous assessment and the working path are presented, and each practical assignment includes an introductory session and a closing session to draw conclusions and learn from mistakes. Throughout the course, students receive individual and group feedback to improve their work and ensure consistent progress.
The course is assessed through continuous evaluation, with various practical activities carried out throughout the semester. Some submissions are mandatory to ensure proper follow?up and progressive learning. Activities that do not meet the established requirements must be resubmitted in the extraordinary assessment period.
The evaluation is based on the quality of both the process and the final outcome of the practical assignments, considering the correct application of advanced compositing techniques, the mastery of node?based compositing and its relationship with 3D lighting, the methodological coherence, and the overall quality of visual integration. Participation, continuous engagement, and the ability to improve based on feedback are also valued. All submissions must meet the technical requirements established to ensure the achievement of the learning outcomes.
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Wright, S. (2017 o 2024). Digital Compositing for Film and Video: Production Workflows and Techniques (4th/5th ed.). Routledge
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