Compositing
Combining render layers into the final image
Also known as: Compositor · Nuke compositing · Blender compositor · After Effects compositing · Post production render
Definition
Compositing is combining several images, such as render passes, backgrounds and effects, into one final picture, and adjusting them with color correction, blur, glow and other operations. In 3D work it is the last stage after rendering, where artists balance the passes, add depth of field and atmosphere, and fix problems without rerendering. Tools include Nuke, Blender's Compositor, After Effects and Photoshop for stills.
In production
Work in linear, high bit depth images and apply the color management transform at the end, so the math behaves correctly. Keep the compositing setup non-destructive, with clear node or layer names, so you can change a pass later. For game art portfolios, compositing is mainly used for beauty shots, breakdown boards and effects, while the real-time look comes from the engine.
Tools that use Compositing
See also
Render Passes (AOVs)
Separate layers of a render for compositing
Color Management and ACES
Linear light, color spaces and view transforms
Bit Depth
8-bit, 16-bit and 32-bit textures
Bloom
Soft glow around bright pixels
Depth of Field
Cinematic camera focus blur
Color Grading
Final color and contrast look of the image
Blending Modes in Digital Painting
Multiply, Overlay, Color and other layer modes