<p>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 <em>Top Gun: Maverick.</em> 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!</p>
<p>Well the good news for VFX artists is that you don't need a pilot's license to make a <em>Top Gun</em> 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>.</p>
<p>I recreated a scene from <em>Top Gun: Maverick</em> spending only 10 credits (<strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">$69.30 during Black Friday!</a></strong>) at ActionVFX. No, it's not quite <em>Top Gun</em> 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.</p>
<p>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></p>
<p><strong>This Tutorial Covers:</strong></p>
<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>
<p><strong>Assets Used in Tutorial:</strong></p>
<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>
<p>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 <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>, <em>Avengers: Endgame</em>, <em>The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes</em>, <em>Stranger Things</em>,  and <em>Call of Duty</em>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library</a></strong></p>
<p>You can try out our assets with a Free Forever Plan, or access our entire library with credits starting at $59!</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">View Plans</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


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.

<p>When it comes to sourcing top-quality VFX assets, FX Elements and ActionVFX often appear in the same conversation. Both offer incredible tools for VFX artists, but which one is the better choice for your project? Let’s dive into the key differences, debunk some myths, and help you determine which option works best for your needs.</p>
<h2>FX Elements: A Good Option for Individual Clip Purchases</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1849x669/298594e8ab/fx-elements-stock-footage.png" alt=""></p>
<p>FX Elements is a great solution for filmmakers who need one or two specific assets, especially for one-off clip purchases. Though their selection is much smaller than ActionVFX—ActionVFX adds an average of six collections per month to its <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">growing library</a>—the assets available through FX Elements are high quality. With individual clips starting at $9 (just $0.90 less than ActionVFX), this platform caters to those with minimal requirements or tight budgets.</p>
<p>However, if you need more than one or two assets, ActionVFX is the better choice. Here’s why:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>FX Elements has daily download limits.</strong> Unlike ActionVFX, FX Elements’ subscriptions restrict you to 15 downloads per day, which can be a bottleneck for larger projects.</li>
<li><strong>FX Elements has a smaller library.</strong> FX Elements offers fewer options overall, making it harder to find exactly what you need. The ActionVFX library, containing around 12,000 assets, is <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">regularly praised</a> for its wide selection of elements.</li>
<li><strong>Greater flexibility with ActionVFX.</strong> The ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/the-future-of-actionvfx">credits-based model</a> lets you choose only the assets you need, whenever you need them, without restrictions like download limits when using credits. Subscribers also get assets in the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">Essentials Catalog</a> for free (up to 20 downloads per day).</li>
<li><strong>All file types included with ActionVFX.</strong> With ActionVFX, you get access to all file and resolution types at no extra cost, unlike FX Elements, which charges more for additional file types.</li>
</ul>
<p>For projects requiring a broader selection of assets or the flexibility to download without daily limits, ActionVFX stands out as the superior choice, especially with an average of six new collections released per month.</p>
<p>Here's a cool testimonial video from Shirogumi, the team that produced Oscar®-winning <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rocH7GZIll0" 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></p>
<h2>Myths About the ActionVFX Subscription</h2>
<p>There’s some <a href="https://www.filmmaker.tools/non-subscription-alternatives-to-actionvfx">misinformation floating around</a> about ActionVFX’s subscription model, so let’s clear things up:</p>
<p><strong>Myth 1: &quot;You’re forced to pay for assets you might not use.&quot;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Truth:</strong> The ActionVFX subscription gives you credits to spend on <em>any</em> asset in the library, putting you in control. You pay for credits, then spend the credits however you’d like. Other “free for subscribers” offerings do not add to the cost of the subscription.</p>
<p><strong>Myth 2: &quot;There’s less flexibility compared to pay-per-clip options.&quot;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Truth:</strong> This is true, only if you only need one asset total. With ActionVFX, you get what you need, when you need it. Credits make it easy to tailor your downloads to your current projects while saving significantly compared to individual purchases. Additionally, you can scale your plan by purchasing additional credits if you ever run out.</p>
<p><strong>Myth 3: &quot;ActionVFX limits downloads to a few per month.&quot;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Truth:</strong> While FX Elements has a 15-asset daily download limit, ActionVFX allows unlimited downloads when using credits. If you run out of credits, you can purchase more without needing to upgrade your plan. For Essentials Catalog assets, subscribers can download up to 20 assets per day.</p>
<p><strong>Myth 4: &quot;Assets are hidden behind a paywall after you subscribe depending on your tier.&quot;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Truth:</strong> Once you subscribe, you can spend your credits on <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">any asset</a> in the ActionVFX library, including assets created by third-party contributor. No tiered access or restrictions.</p>
<p><strong>Myth 5: &quot;ActionVFX increased their prices.&quot;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Truth:</strong> The new ActionVFX subscription is a significant <em>price cut</em> for the vast majority of artists. While it’s not as cheap as our old Legacy subscription model, which we discontinued in 2023 due to its unsustainability for our business, most users save about 50% compared to our individual asset purchasing model, which we have used since our launch in 2016.</p>
<p>For example, individual 4k assets used to cost $39. Now, <strong>by spending credits, individual assets cost an average of $11.95, and as low as $9.90</strong>. Plus, when you download an asset, you get all available resolution types. <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/the-future-of-actionvfx">Here’s a breakdown on how ActionVFX credits work.</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Myth 6: &quot;ActionVFX is only for studios.&quot;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Truth:</strong> While many of our clients are studios, ActionVFX is a also great option for freelancers. Unlike most subscription models, we designed ours so that you keep what you download, even if you cancel. This allows all users to benefit from our library, even those who can only afford a one-time purchase.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x823/240438b0ca/free_vfx_and_pfl.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>Why the ActionVFX Subscription Stands Out</h2>
<h3>ActionVFX Has More Options, Higher Value</h3>
<p>The ActionVFX subscription includes all file types at no extra cost. This contrasts with FX Elements, which charges more for higher-quality files.</p>
<p>All ActionVFX subscribers also get free access to 1570 assets in the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">Essentials Catalog</a>. Subscribers can download up to 20 of these assets per day without spending any credits.</p>
<h3>ActionVFX Offers Incredible Savings</h3>
<p>One of the biggest advantages of ActionVFX credit plans is how much more affordable they are compared to individual purchasing. <strong>For just $59 per month, you gain access to assets that used to cost up to $195 when purchased individually.</strong> That means that as long as you plan to download more than one asset, the credits-based subscription is far cheaper than the old individual asset purchasing model.</p>
<p><strong>The math speaks for itself: subscribing saves you money and gives you more creative freedom.</strong></p>
<h2>With ActionVFX, Cancel Anytime and Keep Your Assets</h2>
<p>Unlike traditional subscriptions, with ActionVFX credit plans, you keep downloaded assets even if you cancel. This lets independent creators benefit from the savings a credit model provides without needing to maintain a monthly subscription during slow months.</p>
<h2>Is ActionVFX a Good Option for Independent Artists?</h2>
<p>Absolutely. ActionVFX understands that not every filmmaker works with a blockbuster budget. We also understand that your needs fluctuate throughout the year. Here’s how we solved that:</p>
<ul>
<li>Credits roll over for 12 months, meaning you can save up credits during slow periods to spend them as you need.</li>
<li>Don’t benefit from month-over-month credit accumulation? Subscribe for one month, spend your credits, then cancel. <strong>As long as you spend more than one credit, you’ll save $20 to $136 compared to our old individual purchasing model.</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1879x657/e6b2a2d3b8/actionvfx-homepage.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>As an independent artist, you can access the same high-quality assets used in blockbusters like <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>, <em>Stranger Things</em>, <em>Spider-Man: Far From Home</em>, <em>Avengers: Endgame</em>, and more—all without breaking the bank.
The responses to the OP in <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/vfx/comments/1eoalu7/action_vfx_worth_it/">this thread</a> are great examples of how independent VFX artists use our assets. Read the comments!</p>
<h2>FX Elements or ActionVFX: Which One Should I Use?</h2>
<p>Both FX Elements and ActionVFX cater to different needs. If you require individual purchasing of a few assets, FX Elements is a great choice. But for anyone needing long-term value, a wide selection of assets, and consistent month-over-month project budgeting, <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">the ActionVFX subscription is a clear winner</a>.</p>
<p>With unparalleled savings, unmatched flexibility, and a library packed with professional-grade assets, ActionVFX continues to set the gold standard in the industry. So, is ActionVFX worth it? Absolutely. Give it a try and see the difference for yourself.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8pdx3QOkUmI" 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></p>
<h2>Black Friday: Save 30% on the ActionVFX Subscription</h2>
<p>During Black Friday (starting November 26th), you can <strong>get 30% off all ActionVFX credit plans.</strong> The best news? Those 30% <strong>savings last for 6 months</strong> if you’re on a monthly plan!</p>
<p>Here’s what else you’ll get:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>30% off additional credits.</strong> This allows you to prepare for any additional assets you’ll need by getting extra credits beyond those provided in your subscription.</li>
<li><strong>Free Asteroid Pack.</strong> 20 CG asteroids available for free only during Black Friday!</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">Visit pricing page</a></strong></p>
<h2>Purchase a Credit Plan</h2>
<p>ActionVFX is widely considered the industry's best library of VFX stock elements. If you're interested in trying out our assets, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category">check out our library of 650 free assets</a>!</p>
<p>To get a credit plan for access to our library of over 11,000 assets, visit our pricing page. <strong>Credit plans for Individuals start at $42 during Black Friday only!</strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">Get a credit plan</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our VFX library</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


FX Elements vs. ActionVFX: Compare pricing, flexibility, and features to find the best VFX assets for your projects.

FX Elements vs ActionVFX: Is FX Elements a Good Alternative to ActionVFX?

How does FX Elements compare to the ActionVFX subscription?

<p>You shouldn't have to spend long hours cleaning up low-quality stock elements. When you're doing that, it feels like you're working <em>against</em> your project rather than moving it forward. For VFX artists, having reliable, high-quality assets isn't just a luxury; it's essential. But in a tough industry climate, balancing quality with affordability is more important than ever.</p>
<p>That's where <a href="https://actionvfx.com">ActionVFX</a> comes in. You deserve high-quality assets without being forced to break your bank. That's true whether you're an indie creator or run a large studio. With <a href="https://offers.actionvfx.com/blackfriday/">Black Friday just around the corner</a>, it’s the perfect time to get top-quality assets at unbeatable prices.</p>
<p>In this article, we'll highlight some of the top deals you can get at ActionVFX in 2024.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/851x315/7ef763095a/blackfriday2024-fbcover-1.png" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Black Friday is live! Save 30% on all ActionVFX credit plans and packs. It's our best deal of the year, so don't miss out!</strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">Get 30% Off</a></strong></p>
<h2>8. Boat Wakes Water Simulations | 4 assets for 8 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/d80b5887a9/boat_wakes_vfx_still_web.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Forget spending hours on water simulations. These pre-keyed boat wakes bring your shots to life quickly and cost-effectively—perfect for tight deadlines and big projects.</p>
<p>These pre-keyed boat wake assets have already made it to our bestseller list for 2024!</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/43138028a1/boat-wakes-water-simulation-looping.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 4
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 2 credits
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 8 credits (~$75 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/boat-wakes-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<h2>7. Fabric Squib Hits | 30 assets for 20 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/c3f5c5905b/fabric-bullet-hits.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Fabric bullet hits are finally here! This highly-requested collection gives you full creative control—match the fabric to your shot or swap in your custom wound textures.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/82cce0cebe/fabric-bullet-hits-with-matte.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 30
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 1 credit
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 20 credits (~$168 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fabric-squib-hits-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Works Well With:</strong> <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-splatter-stock-footage">Blood Splatter Vol. 1</a> (107 assets for 20 credits) and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/bullet-hole-textures-vol-2-stock-footage">Bullet Hole Textures</a> (free for subscribers)</p>
<h2>6. Atmospheric Smoke &amp; Fog Vol. 3 | 46 assets for 30 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/542a153657/atmos_smoke_fog_vol_3_vfx_scene.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Our <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/smoke/category">smoke and fog collections</a> are some of most popular assets due to their extensive use cases. This collection, our most popular atmospheric collection, offers 46 clips of realistic fog, including evaporation, lingering, and windy variations. Its versatility makes it a go-to for everything from eerie forests to gritty industrial backdrops.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/88c55b9aa1/actionvfx-fog-comparison.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 46
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 2 credits
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 30 credits (~$250 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/atmospheric-smoke-fog-vol-3-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<h2>5. Building Fire Essentials | 50 assets for 30 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/2000x1125/d4c4ddce5a/building-fire-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>This long-time favorite Variety Pack has all the assets you need to burn down a house or building in your shot. It includes 50 real fire assets from six of our best structure fire collections.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/e2e409d421/building-fire-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 50
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 1 credit
<strong>Price of Entire Variety Pack:</strong> 30 credits (~$250 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/building-fire-essentials-stock-footage">Download Variety Pack</a></strong></p>
<h2>4. Body Fire | 50 assets for 30 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/2000x1125/0b62acb15a/body-fire-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>This bestselling collection has 50 real fire assets shaped for burning on heads, torsos, backs, and arms. Many of the clips also have chaotic winds to match actor movements.</p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 50
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 1 credit
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 30 credits (~$250 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/body-fire-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<h2>3. Rain | 35 assets for 20 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/384711376a/rain_car_compv2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>If you're looking for some of the most essential collections to add to your personal VFX toolkit, this is a great one to start with since you'll use it regularly. It has 35 real falling rain elements with variations of rain intensity, distance, and wind amount. Plus, you can get the entire collection for only 20 credits!</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/5e020dcaf1/rain_depth_layeringv2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 35
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 1 credit
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 20 credits (~$168 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/rain-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Works Well With:</strong> <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/rain-drops-on-ground-stock-footage">Rain Drops on Ground</a> (24 assets for 20 credits) and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/rain-on-glass-stock-footage">Rain on Glass</a> (30 assets for 20 credits)</p>
<h2>2. Blood Hits | 45 assets for 20 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/48b3794122/blood-hits-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>This collection of real blood hits is an essential for any projects using guns or gore, and it's one of our most popular collections. It includes 45 real blood hits and bursts with various angles and blood amounts. Priced at only 20 credits, you're getting more than 2 assets per credit when you download the entire collection.</p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 45
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 1 credit
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 20 credits (~$168 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-hits-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<h2>1. Muzzle Flashes Vol. 2 | 116 assets for 20 credits</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/800x450/d0b684736b/muzzle_flashes_vol_2_vfx_shot-1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>This collection has 88 video and 28 still prekeyed muzzle flash assets assets from 12 different weapon types. All for only 20 credits, meaning you get almost 6 assets per credit!</p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 116 (88 video, 28 stills)
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> 1 credit
<strong>Price of Entire Collection:</strong> 20 credits (~$168 during Black Friday)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/muzzle-flashes-vol-2-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<h2>Bonus (Free for Subscribers): Gas Explosions Vol. 1</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/e37e299b5b/gas-explosions-vol-1-1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">The Essentials Catalog</a></strong> contains 1570 assets from 36 collections free for all subscribers with an <a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">ActionVFX credit plan</a>. And even if you cancel your plan, your assets from the Essentials Catalog stay on your account forever. Gas Explosions Vol. 1 contains 44 real explosion assets. Unlike many explosion collections, they're filmed vertically so that almost all of them stay completely in frame.</p>
<p><strong>Number of Assets:</strong> 44
<strong>Price Per Asset:</strong> Free for subscribers (20 downloads per day)
<strong>Price of Subscription:</strong> Starts at $59/month (<a href="https://offers.actionvfx.com/blackfriday/">$42 during Black Friday</a>)</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/explosions-stock-footage">Download Collection</a></strong></p>
<h2>Free Asteroids (Only During Black Friday!)</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/2000x1125/bf17d74771/free-asteroid-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>During Black Friday only, get our new Asteroid collection for free! This collection includes 20 clips of CG asteroids, including a variety of angles, small groups, and asteroid fields.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-asteroids-stock-footage">Download Collection - FREE</a></strong></p>
<h2>Why Does ActionVFX Use Credits?</h2>
<p>Freelancers and small teams need flexibility. That’s why our credit plans let you save up for busy periods while keeping costs manageable during slower months.</p>
<p>Here are a few key features of the ActionVFX credit plans:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Credits roll over for 12 months</strong>, allowing you to save and spend them as you need.</li>
<li>Save monthly costs by enrolling in a low-credit plan. If you need more credits, you can purchase additional credit packs <strong>(30% off during Black Friday!)</strong>.</li>
<li>Unlike previous ActionVFX subscription models, <strong>you're not locked into specific assets</strong>. Your credits can be used on any asset in our library.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Is ActionVFX a Good Option for Independent Artists?</h2>
<p>While our assets are regularly used by large studios, ActionVFX is also a great option for more budget-conscious independent creators. Even if you're not looking for a year-round subscription, you can still benefit from the savings that credits provide due to the design of the credit model.</p>
<p>Wish subscriptions didn't lock your purchases behind a second paywall? One of the benefits of our ActionVFX credit plans is that you get to <strong>keep any assets you download</strong>, even if you cancel your plan. <strong>This allows independent creators who can't afford a month-over-month subscription to still benefit from the lower cost of credit plans compared to individual asset purchasing, without needing to pay for credits each month.</strong></p>
<p>As long as you need more than one asset at a time, ActionVFX credit plans are a great option for you. These top deals of 2024 are great collections to start with!</p>
<p>Whether you're a solo creator or running a small team, ActionVFX’s credit plans are designed to help you save money without sacrificing quality. <strong>With 30% off starting November 26th, now is the perfect time to give us a try!</strong></p>
<h3>What is ActionVFX?</h3>
<p>New to ActionVFX? We are <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/testimonials">praised</a> as the industry's best source for production-quality VFX assets. Our elements are regularly used in blockbuster movies, games, and TV shows. Most recently, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/godzilla-minus-one-vfx-oscar-on-a-budget">the team at Shirogumi</a> used our assets to create the Oscar®-winning VFX in <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our VFX library</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">Get 30% Off</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


Here's a compilation of some of the best VFX asset deals of 2024.

Best VFX Asset Deals of 2024

Black Friday is live! Create a wishlist with the top VFX asset deals of 2024.

<p>We’re thrilled that Shirogumi chose ActionVFX assets to bring Godzilla Minus One to life, helping it become the first Japanese film to win an Oscar® for Best Visual Effects.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/godzilla-minus-one-vfx-oscar-on-a-budget">Read more and watch the VFX breakdown here.</a></strong></p>
<p>To celebrate this milestone and the start of our <strong><a href="https://offers.actionvfx.com/blackfriday/">30% off Black Friday sale</a></strong>, we're giving three lucky winners some of the bestselling pyro collections used in the film’s incredible VFX.</p>
<p>Enter daily starting <strong>November 19th</strong> for a chance to win!</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://kingsumo.com/g/10pxwn3/win-four-pyro-collections-used-in-godzilla-minus-one-800-value">Enter Giveaway</a></strong></p>
<h2>Prize Features</h2>
<ul>
<li>$800 value</li>
<li>4 bestselling collections (176 assets)</li>
</ul>
<h2>What You Could Win:</h2>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/explosions-vol-2-stock-footage">Gas Explosions Vol. 2</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/big-gas-fire-stock-footage">Big Gas Fires</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/dust-explosions-stock-footage">Dust Explosions Vol. 1</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/muzzle-flashes-vol-2-stock-footage">Muzzle Flashes Vol. 2</a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><a href="https://kingsumo.com/g/10pxwn3/win-four-pyro-collections-used-in-godzilla-minus-one-800-value">Enter Giveaway</a></strong></p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x823/2132925ea3/godzilla-minus-one-city-destruction-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


Enter to win four pyro VFX collections used in Godzilla Minus One | $800 Value

VFX Giveaway: Win $800 of VFX from Godzilla Minus One

<p>Our latest tutorial blew our minds.</p>
<p>Okay not really. But Wyatt, our Digital Content Creator, shows how he created a head explosion effect inspired by a scene from <em>The Boys</em>. 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>.</p>
<p><strong>This tutorial covers:</strong></p>
<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>
<p><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></p>
<p><strong>VFX assets used:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-hits-stock-footage">Blood Hits</a></strong></li>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/blood-mist-vol-2-stock-footage">Blood Mist Vol. 2</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p>If you enjoyed this tutorial, be sure to <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">subscribe to our YouTube channel</a></strong> for more content like it!</p>
<h2>Best Blood and Gore VFX</h2>
<p>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 <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>, <em>The Walking Dead</em>, and <em>Spider-Man: Far from Home</em>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our library!</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


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.

<p>If you’re looking for 2023’s standout films, <em>Godzilla Minus One</em> is hard to miss. Not only did it tell a compelling story—something fans often felt was missing in previous Godzilla films—but its visual effects were phenomenal. And to top it all off, the film’s VFX team at Shirogumi walked away with a well-earned <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h3q7SaXhCPE">Oscar® for Best Visual Effects</a>, marking the first time a Japanese film has won an Academy Award® for VFX.</p>
<p>What’s even more impressive? They did it all on a $15 million budget, while most blockbusters cost well over $150 million. We’re excited that ActionVFX was one of the key resources Shirogumi compositors used to streamline production and create hollywood-level VFX.</p>
<p>With so many high-budget films <a href="https://3dvf.com/en/no-cgi-is-really-just-invisible-cgi-a-must-watch-series-of-videos/">downplaying or even lying</a> about the work of VFX artists, it’s refreshing to see the artists at Shirogumi getting the recognition they deserve for their extraordinary VFX in <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>.</p>
<p>We had the privilege of interviewing <a href="https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7111903/">Ryo Matsumoto</a>, one of the nine compositing artists at Shirogumi’s Chofu Studio. Ryo’s team won the Oscar® for Best Visual Effects for their work on the film. Ryo gave us a behind-the-scenes look at <em>Godzilla Minus One</em> and talked about how ActionVFX helped them create award-winning VFX on a budget.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the full interview:</strong>
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rocH7GZIll0" 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></p>
<h1>Shirogumi: The VFX Studio Behind Godzilla Minus One</h1>
<p><a href="https://shirogumi.com/">Shirogumi</a> is one of Japan’s top VFX studios, known for handling 3D animation, simulations, and complex effects on limited budgets. You might have seen their work in <em>Parasyte 1</em> and <em>2</em> or <em>The Eternal Zero</em>. But with <em>Godzilla Minus One</em>, they’ve taken things to the next level.</p>
<h1>VFX in Godzilla Minus One</h1>
<p><em>Godzilla Minus One</em> features 610 VFX shots, making up an incredible two-thirds of the entire movie. The VFX team responsible for the film consisted of 35 artists, 9 of whom were responsible for compositing. They used a mix of Nuke for compositing, Houdini for simulations, and Maya and Blender for CG.</p>
<p>Ryo explained, “In order to make the best use of limited resources, each of us had several different roles other than working on individual shots. Some of us were on set, some worked on previews, R&amp;D, or look development. Some worked on both CG and compositing.” Ryo himself was responsible for compositing 88 shots. He also worked on look development and creating Python scripts for Nuke.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/2000x1125/f6bffd532e/godzilla-minus-one-bts-city-destruction.jpg" alt="Godzilla walking through the city | Godzilla Minus One, Ryo Matsumoto"></p>
<p>Shirogumi’s success really boiled down to smart use of resources, a talented team, and great communication with the director.</p>
<h2>Streamlined Approval Process Led to Better Communication</h2>
<p>Unlike many large VFX teams that deal with long approval chains, Shirogumi had a major advantage—writer and director <a href="https://www.vfxvoice.com/takashi-yamazaki-achieves-kaiju-size/">Takashi Yamazaki</a> was also the VFX supervisor. This meant the artists had direct access to him for feedback.</p>
<p>“The director is usually stationed in the studio, so we, the artists, can ask him to check our shots whenever we're ready. Once we get approval from the director, we are free to improve the quality as much as we want. Sometimes we even suggest adding new shots if we think that makes it better,” Ryo shared.</p>
<h2>Limited Practical Effects Helped Them Stick to a Budget</h2>
<p>With a modest budget, the use of practical effects was limited. Instead, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-create-epic-set-extensions-with-vfx">CG set extensions</a> and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HrxAAcB2dM">VFX elements</a> from ActionVFX helped build the realistic scenes, saving millions of dollars.</p>
<p>For example, as Yamazaki mentions in this breakdown, all of the ships in the film use the same practical set, and illusions of movement were created using a combination of cranes and actor performance.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T4pi1F25sxg" 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></p>
<p>This scene of Godzilla destroying a CG city showcases the phenomenal work of Shirogumi’s VFX artists:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/IS_JthTUtJY" 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></p>
<p>This breakdown does a good job of showing how intricate the VFX team’s work needed to be, but also how effective it was.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GqnnmtrW6TM" 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></p>
<p>Far from being a disadvantage, their use of VFX allowed them to tell a story that would not be possible without the technologies of our day. Godzilla’s head alone had a 200 million polygon count. As director Yamazaki said in an interview, “Before all the digital technology and what we have access to today, when Godzilla was still filmed using a suit, a lot of the physical limitations of a rubber suit implied that it was only the size of a human. That limited what filmmakers could do with things like the level of detail regarding how Godzilla affects its surrounding water or the destruction of cities.”</p>
<p>Maybe Christopher Nolan should have gotten the memo from Yamazaki…</p>
<h2>ActionVFX Stock Footage Saved Time &amp; Money</h2>
<p>One of the tools that gave the team at Shirogumi a significant leg up was the availability of VFX stock elements. Specifically, the team leaned on <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX’s assets</a>.</p>
<p>If you’re not familiar with VFX stock elements, here’s a quick explainer:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3HrxAAcB2dM" 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></p>
<p>Ryo explained how critical these elements were: “There are times when you just need to place atmospheric smoke, fire, or dust explosions around Godzilla's feet. That's when ActionVFX comes in handy.” He also noted that using pre-shot, realistic elements helped ground the CG sequences, creating a more believable final product.</p>
<p>Here's a reel highlighting some scenes using a wide variety ActionVFX collections like <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/dust-waves-vol-2-stock-footage">Dust Waves Vol. 1</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/dust-explosions-stock-footage">Dust Explosions Vol. 1</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-bursts-stock-footage">Ground Bursts</a>, and more:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PS8dy98HumY" 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></p>
<p>More importantly, using <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">pre-made VFX elements</a> from ActionVFX saved the team a tremendous amount of time and allowed them to focus on polishing other areas of the film. As Ryo added, “Even if you have a schedule with plenty of time, with the extra time you get from using such assets, you can work on something else to improve the quality—or you can just go home and take a rest.”</p>
<p>It is a huge honor that the team at Shirogumi relies on <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">our assets</a> so much. As Ryo told us, &quot;When it comes to pre-made VFX assets, the first thing that comes to our mind is ActionVFX.&quot;</p>
<p>You can download the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/smoke/category">smoke</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category">fire</a>, and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/explosions/category">explosion</a> assets Shirogumi used in our library.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x823/2132925ea3/godzilla-minus-one-city-destruction-vfx.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h1>Takeaways from Godzilla Minus One for VFX Artists and Studios</h1>
<p><strong>Versatility Wins:</strong> On smaller-budget projects like Godzilla Minus One, the ability to take on multiple <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/vfx-careers-a-complete-guide-to-vfx-salaries-and-getting-started">roles</a>—whether it's compositing, CG, or writing custom scripts—can be a game-changer. Being flexible and proficient in tools like Nuke, Maya, Blender, or Houdini allows you to contribute more across the board.</p>
<p><strong>Clear Communication is Key:</strong> Direct access to decision-makers like the director helped the team work faster and make better choices. It also gave the artists more creative control over the movie.</p>
<p><strong>Make the Most of What You Have:</strong> Shirogumi relied on set extensions, FX simulations, and ActionVFX stock footage to pull off some incredible scenes. If they can impress audiences with a $15 million budget, so can you!</p>
<p><strong>Stock Footage Saves Time:</strong> Using <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">stock elements from ActionVFX</a> helped the team work faster and add details to make the visuals more grounded and realistic. That extra time let them focus on the finer details—and, sometimes, even <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-crafty-apes-use-actionvfx-products-to-gain-a-competitive-edge">head home a little earlier</a>!</p>
<p><em>Godzilla Minus One</em> shows what can happen when a talented VFX team gets creative with <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/5-critical-vfx-tips-for-filmmakers-on-a-budget">limited resources</a>. By being smart with their tools and working well together, Shirogumi managed to produce an Oscar®-winning film that rivals big-budget blockbusters. It’s a solid reminder for VFX artists that sometimes creativity and teamwork matter more than how big the budget is.</p>
<h2>You Can Use Oscar-Worthy VFX Assets</h2>
<p>New to ActionVFX? Our library of over 11,000 hollywood-quality VFX assets are <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">trusted by 300,000 VFX artists</a> and studios worldwide. We are proud to be relied on by visual effects teams for blockbuster movies, games, and shows like <em>Avengers: Endgame</em>, <em>Spider-Man: Far from Home</em>, <em>Stranger Things</em>, <em>The Walking Dead</em>, <em>Call of Duty</em>, and many more.</p>
<p>The ActionVFX library contains a wide variety of VFX assets from massive explosions or atmospheric effects to beetles and blood stains; and new assets are added every month. If these would help streamline your VFX workflow like they did for Shirogumi, <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">explore our library</a></strong>!</p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


Learn about Godzilla Minus One's Oscar®-winning VFX on a $15 million budget and key takeaways for VFX artists.

Godzilla Minus One: Oscar-winning VFX on a Budget

How Shirogumi used ActionVFX to create VFX that won an Oscar® on a budget.

<p>As a VFX artist, you know the pressures and costs of competing in a competitive industry. Your workload changes month-over-month, and high-cost simulations or subscription services can be a drain on your resources.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">ActionVFX credit plans</a> are designed to give you scalable, affordable access to our growing library of over 11,000 production-quality VFX assets.</p>
<h1>Benefits of ActionVFX Credit Plans</h1>
<ul>
<li><strong>Affordability:</strong> Enjoy significant savings compared to individual asset purchasing with flexible subscription options.</li>
<li><strong>Ease of Use:</strong> Set it and forget it with credits that roll over for up to a year.</li>
<li><strong>Flexibility:</strong> Spend your credits your way, on any type of asset..</li>
<li><strong>Essentials Catalog:</strong> Access over 1,570 assets <em>with no credit costs</em>.</li>
<li><strong>Scalability:</strong> Perfect for everyone, from solo artists to large enterprises.</li>
</ul>
<h1>How ActionVFX Credit Plans Work</h1>
<p>Our new credit-based offering is designed to give you affordable and easy access to our asset library, including third party contributor assets.</p>
<p>With our credit system—think of it as ActionVFX currency—you can access any collection across both our 2D and 3D asset libraries. As a subscriber, you'll unlock exclusive perks like the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">Essentials Catalog</a>—a curated selection of premium assets available at no extra cost.</p>
<p>Any unused credits roll over each month for up to a year, allowing you to build a balance for when bigger projects come your way.</p>
<p>Think of your ActionVFX credits like your VFX savings account. You set it and forget it, then dip into your “savings” when your project load picks up.</p>
<h1>ActionVFX Subscription Offerings</h1>
<p>Our new subscription model is built to be flexible, so whether you’re a hobbyist, indie filmmaker, or running a multi-million dollar studio, there’s a plan tailored just for you.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1142x768/4bc8e616c8/actionvfx-subscription-pricing.jpg" alt="ActionVFX credit plan pricing"></p>
<h2>ActionVFX Free Forever Plan</h2>
<p>Get started with our Free Forever Plan and unlock a curated selection of <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category">top-tier assets</a>—completely free. Enjoy up to <strong>10 downloads per day from our Free VFX and Practice Footage libraries</strong>. That gives you access to over 650 free, hollywood-standard VFX assets and over 500 2K professionally-shot practice clips for compositors. Plus, you’ll join our Discord community to connect with fellow creators, exchange ideas, and find support.</p>
<p>This plan is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to sharpen their compositing skills without making a financial commitment.</p>
<h2>Individual Plans</h2>
<p>Our Individual Plan, starting at $59 per month, is designed for solo artists and independent creators who need premium VFX assets on a project-by-project basis. This plan offers access to our library that scales with your workload without breaking the bank.</p>
<p>With this plan, you can <strong>use your credits on any asset in our library and download 4K Pro Practice Footage files</strong>.</p>
<p>To help you get the most out of your subscription, all paid plans include access to the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">Essentials Catalog</a>—a library of 1,500 assets you can download without using any credits. These free-for-subscribers assets are valued at over $6,000.</p>
<p>Choose from flexible monthly plans starting at <strong>$59</strong> per month for 5 credits.</p>
<p>With annual plans, you’ll get all your credits upfront, with options for 60, 120, or 240 credits, depending on your tier.</p>
<p>With assets typically priced between 1-4 credits and a 12-month credit rollover, you should always have credits in your account when you need them. If you ever need more, you can purchase additional credit packs, starting at <strong>$75</strong> for 5 credits.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/851x315/7ef763095a/blackfriday2024-fbcover-1.png" alt=""></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://offers.actionvfx.com/blackfriday/">Get 30% off credit plans and packs during Black Friday</a></strong></p>
<h2>Startup Plans</h2>
<p>If you’re like 9 out of 10 VFX artists, according to a recent study we performed, a lack of access to high-quality VFX stock assets would put you at a significant disadvantage to your competition. But for small teams, paying for an expensive year-round subscription isn’t always feasible.</p>
<p>Our Startup Plan is built for teams and small studios with annual revenues under $3 million, providing a robust solution for growing teams.</p>
<p>Like our other paid plans, this option gives you <strong>full access to the ActionVFX library</strong>, allowing you to scale your subscription based on your team’s project demands. With this plan, you can also download <strong>Pro Practice Footage</strong> and <strong>Essentials Catalog</strong> (&gt;$6,000 value) assets without using credits.</p>
<p>The Startup Plan supports up to five users, making it ideal for small teams.</p>
<p>Choose from flexible monthly plans with 5, 10, or 20 credits, starting at <strong>$199</strong>.</p>
<p>Annual plans provide 60 or more credits per year and you get the added benefit of receiving all of your credits upfront.</p>
<p>If you need more credits, additional Credit Packs start at <strong>$249</strong> for 5 credits.</p>
<h2>Enterprise Plans</h2>
<p>There’s a reason the world’s largest VFX studios <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/testimonials">love our assets</a>. According to one of our recent surveys, 8 out of 10 VFX Producers agree that not integrating ActionVFX elements into their workflow would lead to slower turnarounds and lower client satisfaction.</p>
<p>Our Enterprise Plan is built for large companies with annual revenues over $3 million. It offers full access to the entire ActionVFX library and supports multiple users.</p>
<p>Our new model offers studios unique benefits that previous subscription models didn’t provide.</p>
<ul>
<li>Rollover credits and credit packs let studios scale their subscription to match fluctuating project demands.</li>
<li>The credit-based system puts creative control in the hands of artists and VFX supervisors, cutting out lengthy purchase approval processes.</li>
<li>Studios can access our entire VFX library without being limited to pre-selected asset packages.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Enterprise Plan supports unlimited users, making it ideal for large teams. It also includes custom licenses and a dedicated account manager.</p>
<p>To learn more or customize the Enterprise Plan to fit your needs, contact us directly at <strong>sales@actionvfx.com</strong>. We’re here to support your enterprise-level projects.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1600x820/3e1c693af2/actionvfx-subscription-comparison.jpg" alt="ActionVFX credit plan comparison"></p>
<h1>What is the ActionVFX Essentials Catalog?</h1>
<p>Our old subscription model only allowed purchases with credits. This meant that even for smaller projects, you had to dip into your credit “savings.” <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products/essentials-catalog">The Essentials Catalog</a> solves this. <strong>It offers 1,570 production-quality assets valued at over $6,000 that you can download without using any credits.</strong> Even if you cancel your subscription, everything you’ve downloaded remains yours to keep and use—your assets are permanent.</p>
<p><strong>The Essentials Catalog is available to subscribers on the Individual, Startup, and Enterprise plans</strong>. This curated collection includes some of our bestselling assets like <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/bullet-hits-stock-footage">Bullet Hits</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/muzzle-flashes-stock-footage">Muzzle Flashes Vol. 1</a>, and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/falling-burning-debris-stock-footage">Falling Burning Debris</a>.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1792x606/5b8bc09787/actionvfx-essentials-catalog.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>Identifying Essentials Catalog Products</h2>
<p>Here’s how to spot Essentials Catalog products:</p>
<ul>
<li>Look for the <strong>“Essentials”</strong> label (or a branded &quot;E&quot;) on product thumbnails and pages.</li>
<li>Check the product page sidebar for a mention that it’s included in the Essentials Catalog.</li>
</ul>
<h1>Is the ActionVFX Subscription Worth It?</h1>
<p>Why is the new ActionVFX subscription a big deal? <strong>It scales with your changing project needs</strong>, giving you access to the <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">world's best</a> VFX stock assets as you need them.</p>
<p>Use your credits however you like—no lock-ins, no limits. When work picks up, grab a Credit Pack. When things slow down, scale back and let your credits accumulate for the next burst. You’ll always have access to what you need, when you need it.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1879x657/e6b2a2d3b8/actionvfx-homepage.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h1>What are ActionVFX Credit Packs?</h1>
<p>Credit Packs give you extra flexibility, letting you add more credits to your subscription whenever you need them.</p>
<p>Buy Credit Packs anytime to scale up when your projects demand it. Just like your subscription credits, these roll over for 12 months, giving you flexibility to download the assets you need when you need them.</p>
<p>Here’s a quick look at the Credit Packs available.</p>
<ul>
<li>Credit Packs for individuals start at <strong>$75</strong> for 5 additional credits</li>
<li>Credit Packs for Startups start at <strong>$249</strong> for 5 credits.</li>
<li>Studios can work with our sales team at <strong>sales@actionvfx.com</strong> to secure a customized number of additional credits.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><a href="https://offers.actionvfx.com/blackfriday/">Get 30% off Credit Packs during Black Friday</a></strong></p>
<h1>What About Current ActionVFX Subscribers?</h1>
<p>If you are currently subscribed to an AVFX+ or Legacy subscription, you will have the option to continue with your current subscription until its renewal date, or upgrade to a new credit plan.</p>
<p>Here are a few things to keep in mind:</p>
<ul>
<li>If you are on a Legacy plan, you should use any saved credits before your plan’s expiration date. Since those credits can’t be used to access contributor products (hence limiting your access to our library), the old credit system will be discontinued.</li>
<li>If you are an AVFX+ user, upgrading to the new subscription will mean you are no longer limited to the assets included in your plan. You will be able to use your credits to access our entire library.</li>
</ul>
<p>AVFX+ and our old Legacy subscription models have a lot of problems. We and our users loved the Legacy subscription, but it ultimately wasn't sustainable for our business and didn't allow us to fairly compensate our third party asset contributors. AVFX+ wasn't a hit with users since it didn't provide the value you wanted. But we’re excited that our new subscription model will be a much higher-value offering with an improved user experience!</p>
<p>If you're interested in upgrading to a credit plan, feel free to <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.typeform.com/to/oukYweBT">join our priority onboarding list</a></strong> for the new subscription. We will reach out to you with instructions on upgrading to a credit plan.</p>
<h1>Your Work, Your VFX Assets, Your Way</h1>
<p>We're excited to see how our credit plans are already impacting freelancers and studios by allowing them to save money on <a href="https://actionvfx.com/testimonials">the world's best VFX assets</a>. Whether you’re a solo creator or part of a AAA studio, we’ve got a plan for you!</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3HrxAAcB2dM" 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></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX - Built for Creators, By Creators.</strong></p>
<p>Remember: <strong>Starting November 26th, get 30% off all credit plans and credit packs</strong> during our Black Friday sale!</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://offers.actionvfx.com/blackfriday/">Remind Me About Black Friday</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


Here's what you should know about ActionVFX credit plans and how they work.

ActionVFX Credit Plans: What You Should Know

<p>In this Blender tutorial, Tom recreates a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles as depicted in <em>Fallout</em>.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><strong>Watch the full tutorial:</strong></p>
<p><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></p>
<h2>Prerequisites</h2>
<p>Before we begin, ensure you have the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Free VDB Shader from ActionVFX: <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/free-vdb-shader-3d-assets">Download Here</a></strong></li>
<li>3D Nuclear Explosion Assets from ActionVFX: <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/nuclear-explosions-3d-assets">Download Here</a></strong></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>
<p><strong>Creating the Environment</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Decide on your environment. For this tutorial, we'll use a cityscape inspired by the show <em>Fallout</em>.</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>
<p><strong>Importing Map Data</strong></p>
<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>
<p><strong>Use UV Mapping to apply the texture:</strong></p>
<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>
<p><strong>Add an HDRI environment for realistic lighting:</strong></p>
<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>
<p><strong>Import the VDB explosion asset:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Go to File &gt; Import &gt; Volume and select your VDB file.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Position the explosion in your scene:</strong></p>
<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>
<p><strong>Set up your camera for the best shot:</strong></p>
<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>
<p>For more resources like this, be sure to <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/@ActionVFXofficial">subscribe to our YouTube channel</a></strong>!</p>
<p>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, <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">explore our 3D library</a></strong>.</p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


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

<p>CG scenes play a crucial role for 3D artists. Whether you are an aspiring 3D artist looking to learn and improve your skills or a seasoned professional seeking inspiration, having access to <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/technical-checklist-for-selecting-3d-assets">high-quality</a> CG scenes can make all the difference. Fortunately, there are plenty of free options available for artists to explore and utilize in their projects.</p>
<p>In this article we give an overview of how to use CG scenes in your projects, then highlight a few of our favorite free scenes of 2024 that you can download.</p>
<h2>Understanding CG scenes</h2>
<p>CG scenes are digitally created environments that serve as settings for <a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">3D models</a>. They allow 3D artists to control lighting, staging, and composition to create realistic or imaginative settings.</p>
<h2>What are CG scenes?</h2>
<p>A CG scene is a collection of various elements, including 3D models, textures, lighting setups, and camera angles, arranged to create a cohesive and visually appealing environment. These scenes are created using <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-best-3d-vfx-software">3D software</a> such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, or Cinema 4D. Artists have the freedom to manipulate every aspect of the scene to achieve their desired visual outcome.</p>
<p>CG scenes come in various types, each serving specific purposes for artists. Architectural scenes are used for visualizing buildings and interiors, helping artists showcase architectural designs with different materials and lighting. Nature and landscape scenes offer depictions of the natural world, from forests to beaches, allowing artists to create immersive environments that capture the beauty of nature. Character and creature scenes focus on character modeling and animation, featuring diverse figures in various poses for artists to practice rigging and animating.</p>
<h2>What are CG scenes used for?</h2>
<p>If you're a 3D artist on the hunt for free CG scenes online, you might be looking to use them for several practical purposes:</p>
<p><strong>Learning and Skill Development:</strong> One of the top reasons to download free CG scenes is to dissect them and understand how they are built. This is a great way to learn new techniques, understand workflow processes, and get a feel for professional standards in scene composition, lighting, texturing, and more.</p>
<p><strong>Portfolio Work:</strong> Sometimes creating every element of a portfolio piece from scratch is not feasible due to time constraints. Using pre-made scenes can help you focus on specific skills like lighting, texturing, or animation, allowing you to <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-avoid-common-vfx-reel-mistakes">showcase these skills</a> effectively in your portfolio.</p>
<p><strong>Testing and Experimentation:</strong> Free scenes are excellent for testing new software features, plugins, or rendering techniques without having to invest the time in building a new scene from the ground up. This can be particularly useful for <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-comprehensive-guide-to-the-best-3d-vfx-software">comparing different rendering engines</a> or learning new aspects of 3D software.</p>
<p><strong>Prototyping and Concept Development:</strong> If you're working on a concept or a pitch, using a pre-built scene can help you quickly put together a visual prototype to communicate your ideas effectively, be it for a game, movie, or any other visual project.</p>
<p><strong>Template or Base for Further Development:</strong> Sometimes a free scene might serve as a starting point or inspiration for further creative development. You might take a basic environment and populate it with your own characters, assets, or modify it to fit the needs of your project.</p>
<p><strong>Educational Demonstrations:</strong> If you're teaching 3D modeling or animation, using free scenes in demonstrations can be incredibly useful. It allows students to see how different elements interact in a professional-quality scene.</p>
<p>In all these cases, free CG scenes can save time and resources, and provide a valuable learning tool or stepping stone in your creative projects.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/2000x1125/7eda9c6a2b/3d-artist-gaming-asset.png" alt=""></p>
<h2>How to Choose the Right CG Scene</h2>
<p>With countless CG scenes available, it can be overwhelming to choose the one that best aligns with your project requirements.</p>
<p>Here are some factors to consider when selecting a CG scene.</p>
<h3>Considering Your Project Needs</h3>
<p>First and foremost, it is crucial to assess the specific requirements of your project. Determine the genre, style, and mood you want to portray and search for scenes that complement your vision. Consider whether you need an urban environment, a natural landscape, or a specific architectural style. By having a clear idea of your project needs, you can narrow down your options and find a suitable CG scene.</p>
<h3>Evaluating Scene Complexity</h3>
<p>It is important to evaluate the complexity of the scene before integrating it into your project. Consider the level of detail, the number of elements included, and the overall performance impact on your workflow. While highly detailed scenes may look visually appealing, they can be resource-intensive and impact rendering times. Choose a scene that strikes the right balance between quality and performance.</p>
<h2>Top Free CG Scenes of 2024</h2>
<p>If you are a 3D artist looking for free CG scenes, here are a few of our top picks to start with.</p>
<h3>CGTrader: Free CG Scenes</h3>
<p>CGTrader has a number of interior and outdoor CG scenes and environments from road scenes, home scenes, to cityscapes. These are great for prototyping or testing out new software attributes.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.cgtrader.com/free-3d-models/scene">Explore CGTrader CG Scenes</a></p>
<h3>BlenderKit: CG Scenes Library</h3>
<p>BlenderKit provides a library of complete setups or environments that are ready to be used for rendering or further modification. These scenes might include various elements like lighting, cameras, props, and environmental setups, all designed to help you jumpstart your 3D projects or learn by dissecting complex compositions.</p>
<p>BlenderKit integrates seamlessly into the Blender interface, allowing you to browse, preview, and download assets without leaving the software.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.blenderkit.com/asset-gallery?query=category_subtree:scene+is_free:true">Explore BlenderKit CG Scenes</a></strong></p>
<h3>The Practice Footage Library</h3>
<p>While the ActionVFX Practice Footage Library does not currently contain CG scenes, it can be a great place to find footage to practice or showcase 2D or 3D compositing. It contains over 500 practice scenes shot with compositors in mind.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Practice Footage Library</a></strong></p>
<h2>Production-Ready 3D Models</h2>
<p>In November 2023, we launched our new library of production-ready 3D models, VDBs, and alembics, and our library is rapidly expanding. Explore our 3D library, and be sure to join our email list to stay up to date!</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">Shop 3D Library</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.lpages.co/3d-artist-email-community/">Join Our 3D Email List</a></strong></p>
<p>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></p>


These free CG scenes are perfect for enhancing your skills, building your portfolio, and developing project concepts.

CG Roundup: Free CG Scenes for 3D Artists

<p>Understanding alpha channels is essential to compositing in popular software like After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion. <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/what-is-an-alpha-channel">Alpha channels</a> play a crucial role in determining the transparency and blending of layers, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your footage.</p>
<p>In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into the two main types of alpha channels—premultiplied and straight—and explore how to correctly interpret and work with them in After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion.</p>
<h2>What are Alpha Channels?</h2>
<p>Before we delve into the specifics of premultiplied and straight alpha, let's take a step back and understand what alpha channels are. In simple terms, an alpha channel is an additional channel in an image or video that stores transparency information. It determines which parts of the image are opaque, transparent, or semi-transparent. Alpha channels are essential for compositing footage, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-beginner-s-guide-to-alpha-luma-mattes-after-effects-tutorial">creating masks</a>, and achieving various transparency effects.</p>
<p>Think of an alpha channel as a grayscale image that sits alongside the RGB color channels. In this grayscale image, white represents fully opaque areas, black represents fully transparent areas, and shades of gray represent varying levels of transparency. By using alpha channels, you can create complex compositions where elements seamlessly blend with each other and the background.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/933x391/8bc420a2eb/grayscale_rbg_alpha_explosion.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>Premultiplied vs. Straight Alpha Channels</h2>
<p>Now that we have a basic understanding of alpha channels, let's explore the two main types: premultiplied alpha and straight alpha.</p>
<h3>Premultiplied Alpha (or &quot;Matted&quot;)</h3>
<p>Premultiplied alpha, also known as &quot;matted&quot; alpha, is a type of alpha channel where the RGB color channels are multiplied by the alpha channel values. In other words, the color information is &quot;baked&quot; into the transparency. This means that the edges of the image appear smooth and anti-aliased against the background, resulting in a more natural blending.</p>
<p>Premultiplied alpha is commonly used in video codecs and is the default setting in most all software. When you import footage with premultiplied alpha, the software automatically interprets it correctly, ensuring that the transparency and color information are handled properly during compositing.</p>
<h3>Straight Alpha (or &quot;Unmatted&quot;)</h3>
<p>Straight alpha, also referred to as &quot;unmatted&quot; alpha, is a type of alpha channel where the RGB color channels and the alpha channel are stored separately. In this case, the color information is not pre-multiplied with the transparency values. As a result, the edges of the image may appear harsh and jagged against the background. If the edges of the alpha ever look messy upon import, the image is likely using straight alpha.</p>
<p>Straight alpha is often used in graphics and still images, such as those created in Photoshop or Illustrator. When working with straight alpha footage in After Effects, Nuke, or DaVinci Resolve Fusion, it's important to correctly interpret the alpha channel to ensure proper compositing and transparency.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/933x390/be0e3f78ee/premultiplied_vs_straight_alpha_comparison.jpg" alt=""></p>
<h2>Interpreting Alpha Channels in After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion</h2>
<p>Now that you understand the difference between premultiplied and straight alpha, let's walk through the process of interpreting alpha channels correctly in each software.</p>
<h3>Alpha Channels in After Effects</h3>
<ol>
<li>Select the footage in the Project panel.</li>
<li>Right-click on the footage and choose &quot;Interpret Footage&quot; &gt; &quot;Main...&quot;</li>
<li>In the Interpret Footage dialog box, locate the &quot;Alpha&quot; section.</li>
<li>Choose the appropriate alpha channel interpretation based on your footage:</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>For premultiplied alpha footage, select &quot;Premultiplied - Matted With Color:&quot;</li>
<li>For straight alpha footage, select &quot;Straight - Unmatted&quot;</li>
</ul>
<ol start="5">
<li>Click &quot;OK&quot; to apply the changes.</li>
<li>Right-click the footage you changed the settings for and choose “Reload Footage”.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/928x346/a6b3c51b36/alpha_channels_after_effects.jpg" alt=""></li>
</ol>
<h3>Alpha Channels in Nuke</h3>
<p>To go from straight alpha to pre-multiplied alpha:</p>
<ol>
<li>Add a <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/6-common-but-not-obvious-nodes-for-nuke-beginners">“Premult” node</a> and connect the input to your footage.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/930x277/c72b9826c8/premult_node_nuke.jpg" alt=""></li>
</ol>
<p>To go from pre-multiplied alpha to straight alpha:</p>
<ol>
<li>Add an “Unpremult” node and connect the input to your footage.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/933x280/d0715e7e64/unpremult_node_nuke.jpg" alt=""></li>
</ol>
<p>Unpremultiplying an image is useful when doing color corrections on footage with an alpha channel as it ensures the semi-transparent pixels receive the same edits as the fully opaque pixels. After your color corrections, you would then Premult the image before Merging it over top of the background.</p>
<h3>Alpha Channels in DaVinci Resolve Fusion</h3>
<ol>
<li>Right-click the footage in the Media Pool.</li>
<li>Hover over “Change Alpha Mode.”</li>
<li>Choose the appropriate alpha channel interpretation:</li>
</ol>
<ul>
<li>For premultiplied alpha footage, select &quot;Premultiplied.&quot;</li>
<li>For straight alpha footage, select &quot;Straight.&quot;</li>
</ul>
<ol start="4">
<li>The changes will be applied automatically.
<img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/936x545/9ffdea56d3/change_alpha-mode_davinci_resolve_fusion.jpg" alt=""></li>
</ol>
<p>By selecting the correct alpha channel interpretation in each software, you ensure that the transparency information is treated accurately, resulting in proper compositing and blending with other layers.</p>
<h2>Common Alpha Issues and Solutions</h2>
<p>When working with alpha channels, you may encounter some common issues. Let's explore a few of them and their solutions:</p>
<p><strong>1. Dark or Bright Edges:</strong> If the edges of your footage or VFX asset are darker or brighter than they should be, it's likely that the alpha channel interpretation is incorrect. To fix this, change the alpha channel interpretation in the respective software settings as described earlier.</p>
<p><strong>2. Edge Fringing:</strong> Edge fringing, or a thin halo around the edges of composited footage, can occur due to a mismatch in the alpha channel.</p>
<p><strong>3. Software Differences:</strong> There are some inconsistencies in the way some software handles alpha channels. Even the major players such as After Effects and Nuke handle pre-multiplied alpha channels slightly differently. If you notice that you aren’t getting the same result when going from one software to another, try using straight alpha channels for your renders. Almost all software handles straight alpha channels the same way. You may have noticed that some <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX collections</a> are delivered with a straight alpha channel for this reason. Remember to check your footage's alpha channel interpretation, experiment with blending modes, and leverage the unique tools each software offers to refine your composites.</p>
<p>Understanding alpha channels is a <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-free-beginner-s-guide-to-learning-vfx-from-home">fundamental skill</a> for VFX compositing, regardless of the software you use. By mastering the concepts of premultiplied and straight alpha, and knowing how to correctly interpret them in After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion, you'll be well-equipped to create stunning VFX.</p>
<h2>VFX Assets for After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion</h2>
<p>If you are looking for Hollywood-quality VFX assets, a great place to start is the <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX VFX Library</a>. We are <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/testimonials">proud to be considered</a> the industry standard for high-quality visual effects assets. If you are interested in trying out our assets, check our our library of <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category">free assets</a>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore the Full Library</a></strong> | <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">Join AVFX+</a></strong></p>
<p>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></p>


Learn how to work with premultiplied and straight alpha channels in After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion.

Mastering Alpha Channels in After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion

<p>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.</p>
<h2>The Significance of 3D Assets in VFX and Animation</h2>
<p>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.</p>
<h2>Key Factors to Consider When Selecting 3D Assets</h2>
<p>When choosing 3D assets for your project, there are several critical factors to keep in mind:</p>
<h3>1. Compatibility with Your Software and Pipeline</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h3>2. Polygon Count and Level of Detail (LOD)</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<h3>3. Texturing and Materials</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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=""></p>
<h3>4. Rigging and Animation</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h2>Understanding the Technical Aspects of 3D Assets</h2>
<p>Understanding the technical aspects of 3D assets is essential for making informed decisions during the selection process.</p>
<h3>1. Topology and Edge Flow</h3>
<p>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></p>
<h3>2. UV Mapping and Texture Density</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h3>3. Shading and Rendering</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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></p>
<h2>Selecting the Right 3D Assets</h2>
<p>Now that you understand the technical considerations, let's walk through the process of selecting 3D assets step by step.</p>
<h3>1. Define Your Project Requirements</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h3>2. Research and Evaluate Asset Libraries</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h3>3. Test and Integrate Assets</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h3>4. Optimize and Iterate</h3>
<p>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.</p>
<h2>Invest in the Right 3D Assets</h2>
<p>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></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/3d">Explore the 3D Library</a></strong></p>
<p>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></p>


A comprehensive technical checklist for choosing high-quality 3D assets for VFX or animation projects.

Technical Checklist for Selecting 3D Assets

<p>If you’re a 3D VFX artist or <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/8-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-becoming-a-vfx-artist">pursuing a career in 3D VFX</a>, you know that your choice of software can significantly influence the efficiency, quality, and style of your project’s output. While price point is a significant factor, selecting the right 3D software involves understanding your needs throughout your entire <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/3-tips-for-speeding-up-your-vfx-workflow">project workflow</a>.</p>
<p>This comprehensive guide to 3D software for VFX compares seven of the best 3D VFX software tools. Each software is evaluated based on its modeling, animation, and rendering capabilities, providing insights into their suitability for various VFX requirements.</p>
<p><strong>(Skip to the end for a tl;dr summary)</strong></p>
<h2>Choosing the Right 3D VFX Software</h2>
<p>When selecting the right software to use on your 3D project, it’s important to consider the software’s main capabilities in modeling, animation, and rendering. These are fundamental to the 3D production process and determine the quality of your work.</p>
<h3>Scripting and Automation Capabilities</h3>
<p>If you’re aiming to boost productivity, the software's support for scripting and automation is a key factor. Automating repetitive tasks can <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/five-free-tools-for-your-vfx-workflow">save a significant amount of time</a> on larger projects. It's also important to check if the software works well with other tools you use, ensuring smooth collaboration and integration within your existing production pipeline.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/940x788/e42f7137d7/3d_artist_working_in_studio.jpg" alt="3D artist working in a studio"></p>
<h3>Rendering Performance</h3>
<p>The software's <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/which-3d-render-engine-should-i-use-for-vfx">rendering performance</a>, both in terms of speed and the visual quality of outputs, is another critical aspect. For projects requiring detailed simulations like <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/pyro/category">explosions</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/debris-and-impact/category">debris</a>, or <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d/smoke-and-fog/category">smoke</a>, the software’s ability to handle such effects efficiently can make a big difference.</p>
<h3>Return on Investment</h3>
<p>Balancing the software’s ease of use against the comprehensiveness of its features is also crucial. This includes evaluating the learning curve and whether the investment in both time and money aligns with the benefits it offers.</p>
<h2>Autodesk Maya</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1831x517/a9936d9033/autodesk_maya_3d_software.jpg" alt="Autodesk Maya: 3D animated and visual effects software"></p>
<p>Maya is the industry standard for high-end animation and modeling, offering unparalleled tools for complex character creation and visual effects.</p>
<h3>3D Modeling in Maya</h3>
<p>Maya excels in offering an extensive range of modeling tools, accommodating both <a href="https://professional3dservices.com/blog/polygonal-modeling.html">polygonal</a> and <a href="https://www.3ds.com/store/cad/nurbs-modeling">NURBS</a> workflows. Its strength lies in the creation of complex organic forms and intricate geometries, supported by a robust set of sculpting and topology tools. Artists requiring high control over mesh detail, particularly for character and environment modeling, will find Maya’s capabilities superior.</p>
<h3>3D Animation in Maya</h3>
<p>Maya stands out for its sophisticated rigging and animation toolset. It offers an advanced skeleton and rigging systems, enabling intricate character animation with detailed facial expressions and motion capture integration. Its comprehensive graph editor and non-linear animation mixer make it the go-to for artists prioritizing character animation and complex cinematic sequences.</p>
<h3>3D Rendering in Maya</h3>
<p>With Arnold as its native renderer, Maya offers out-of-the-box support for high-end rendering needs. <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/4-insightful-arnold-renderer-tutorials">Arnold</a> is optimized for handling complex scenes and delivers exceptional quality in lighting and shadow accuracy. Artists looking for photorealistic outputs directly within Maya will benefit from Arnold, though third-party renderers like V-Ray and Redshift are also well-supported for those requiring specific rendering styles or faster GPU-based rendering solutions.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/maya/overview?term=1-YEAR&amp;tab=subscription&amp;plc=MAYA">AutoDesk Maya Pricing</a></strong></p>
<h2>Blender</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1747x634/6140d38f49/blender_4_3d_software.jpg" alt="Blender 4.1 3D software">
Blender is a <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/top-5-free-programs-for-vfx-artists-and-creative-people">free, open-source software</a> providing a comprehensive suite of tools for modeling, animation, and rendering, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/5-reasons-now-is-the-best-time-to-learn-blender">suitable for both beginners and professionals</a>.</p>
<h3>3D Modeling in Blender</h3>
<p>Blender’s modeling capabilities are robust, offering a wide variety of tools that cater to both beginners and experienced artists. Its comprehensive set of modifiers and sculpting tools make it highly versatile for both hard-surface and organic modeling. For artists seeking a no-cost solution without compromising on the depth of modeling features, Blender presents an attractive option.</p>
<h3>3D Animation in Blender</h3>
<p>Blender provides a competent animation toolkit with robust <a href="https://www.pluralsight.com/blog/film-games/understanding-skinning-vital-step-rigging-project">rigging and skinning</a> features. Its grease pencil feature uniquely supports 2D animation within the 3D environment, offering creative flexibility not found in many other software. Blender is particularly suitable for artists <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/compositing-actionvfx-explosion-in-blender">integrating 2D</a> and 3D animation workflows or those working on projects with mixed media elements.</p>
<h3>3D Rendering in Blender</h3>
<p>Cycles, <a href="https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/2.80/render/cycles/introduction.html">Blender’s built-in renderer</a>, is capable of producing high-quality, photorealistic images. It is complemented by <a href="https://docs.blender.org/manual/en/latest/render/eevee/introduction.html">Eevee</a>, a real-time renderer, offering artists a quick preview of the final look. For those working in environments where rapid iteration is key, Blender’s dual-rendering options provide a significant advantage, especially when supplemented by third-party renderers for specialized needs.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.blender.org/">Learn more about Blender</a></strong></p>
<h2>Houdini</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1747x412/d5b19caff2/houdini_3d_software.jpg" alt="Houdini 3D software">
Houdini excels in procedural generation and advanced simulations, making it ideal for creating complex dynamic effects and environments.</p>
<h3>Procedural Modeling in Houdini</h3>
<p>Houdini is unrivaled in its <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/5-ways-houdini-s-game-dev-toolset-is-enhancing-vfx">procedural modeling and animation capabilities</a>, making it ideal for artists who require non-destructive workflows and high repeatability in complex scenes or VFX sequences. Its node-based approach offers unparalleled control and flexibility, allowing for the efficient creation and iteration of complex systems like cityscapes or dynamic destruction effects.</p>
<h3>Particle and Fluid Simulation in Houdini</h3>
<p>For simulations of natural phenomena such as water, fire, smoke, and explosions, Houdini’s particle and fluid dynamics engines are industry-leading. Its Vellum solver, for cloth, hair, and soft body dynamics, along with a robust particle system, make it indispensable for creators focusing on high-end simulation and effects work.</p>
<h3>Procedural Animation in Houdini</h3>
<p>Leveraging its procedural backbone, Houdini enables artists to generate sophisticated motion graphics and complex character animations that can be intricately controlled and easily revised through its node-based system. Studios focusing on dynamic effects, such as those found in feature films and commercials, will find Houdini’s procedural animation tools to be a game-changer.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.sidefx.com/products/houdini/">Try Houdini for Free</a></strong></p>
<h2>Cinema 4D</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1449x492/cdab808083/cinema_4d_software.jpg" alt="Cinema 4D (C4D) 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and rendering software">
Renowned for its <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/3-cinema-4d-tutorials-you-need-to-get-started">user-friendly interface</a>, Cinema 4D (also known by its acronym C4D) is favored for motion graphics and 3D design, offering efficient workflows for creative professionals.</p>
<h3>3D Modeling in Cinema 4D</h3>
<p>C4D is known for its user-friendly interface and efficient modeling tools, making it suitable for designers and VFX artists focusing on motion graphics. Its non-destructive modeling workflow, including a <a href="https://www.maxon.net/en/cinema-4d/features/mograph-basics">powerful MoGraph module</a>, is particularly effective for creating complex animations and graphic designs quickly and intuitively.</p>
<h3>3D Animation in Cinema 4D</h3>
<p>Cinema 4D shines in the creation of motion graphics thanks to its MoGraph toolset, offering vast possibilities for procedural animations. Artists can easily create complex animations and effects, making it ideal for broadcast graphics, title sequences, and short-form content that requires quick turnarounds and high visual impact.</p>
<h3>3D Rendering in Cinema 4D</h3>
<p>With its native Physical renderer and support for <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-import-3d-models-with-udim-textures">popular third-party renderers</a> like Arnold and Octane, Cinema 4D provides <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/render-exr-passes-like-a-pro-cinema-4d">versatile rendering options</a> to achieve a wide range of aesthetic styles, from photorealistic to highly stylized. It is particularly valued by artists and studios that need to produce high-quality renders with efficient use of resources.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.maxon.net/en/cinema-4d">Learn More About Cinema 4D</a></strong></p>
<h2>Unreal Engine</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1711x550/ce15c11045/unreal_engine_3d_software.jpg" alt="Unreal Engine 3D Software">
Unreal Engine dominates in <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-use-composure-for-real-time-keying-in-the-unreal-engine">real-time rendering and interactive content creation</a>, providing cutting-edge tools for game development and virtual experiences.</p>
<h3>Real-Time Rendering in Unreal Engine</h3>
<p>Unreal Engine’s prowess in real-time rendering is unmatched, offering instant visual feedback and the ability to produce cinematic-quality visuals at unparalleled speeds. Its dynamic lighting and advanced material system make it an ideal choice for projects requiring high fidelity visuals in interactive applications, such as video games and virtual reality experiences.</p>
<h3>Blueprint Visual Scripting in Unreal Engine</h3>
<p>Unreal Engine's <a href="https://docs.unrealengine.com/4.26/en-US/ProgrammingAndScripting/Blueprints/">Blueprint system</a> democratizes the development process, allowing artists and designers to create complex logic without traditional coding. This feature is especially beneficial for teams looking to rapidly prototype interactive elements or for artists who wish to integrate interactive functionalities into their projects without a deep programming background.</p>
<h3>Virtual Reality Development in Unreal Engine</h3>
<p>With robust built-in support for <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-does-vr-360-video-work">VR development</a>, Unreal Engine stands out for creating immersive experiences. Its efficient handling of high-resolution assets and real-time rendering capabilities ensures smooth performance, making it a preferred choice for developers and artists working on cutting-edge VR projects where visual quality and interactivity are paramount.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.unrealengine.com/en-US">Learn More About Unreal Engine</a></strong></p>
<h2>Modo</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1783x609/8d71c6dd40/modo_3d_software.jpg" alt="Modo Creative 3D modeling, animation, texturing, and rendering software">
Modo offers a robust modeling and rendering toolkit with an intuitive interface, making it a strong choice for artists focused on high-quality visuals and design.</p>
<h3>3D Modeling in Modo</h3>
<p>Modo, created by the same company that owns <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=nuke">Nuke</a>, is renowned for its direct and robust modeling toolkit, combining traditional polygonal modeling with advanced procedural techniques. Its mesh fusion feature allows for <a href="https://nclab.com/the-art-of-3d-modeling-efficient-boolean-operations/">boolean operations</a> that result in cleaner topology, which is ideal for artists who need precision in hard-surface modeling tasks, such as product design and architectural visualization.</p>
<h3>3D Animation in Modo</h3>
<p>While not as comprehensive as some of its counterparts, Modo's animation tools offer a streamlined workflow for basic to moderately complex animations. It includes a fully featured rigging system and straightforward timeline and keyframe management, suitable for projects with less intricate animation requirements or for artists who combine Modo with other animation-specific tools.</p>
<h3>3D Rendering in Modo</h3>
<p>Modo's built-in renderer is praised for its speed and quality, delivering stunning results with relatively straightforward setup. The software also supports popular third-party renderers for additional flexibility. Modo is particularly appealing to artists and studios that value a balance between high-quality output and efficient rendering workflows.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.foundry.com/products/modo">Try Modo for Free</a></strong></p>
<h2>3ds Max</h2>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1803x433/a6cbff7fd7/3ds_max_software.jpg" alt="3ds Max software for 3D modeling and rendering">
3ds Max is a versatile software known for its strong modeling capabilities and architectural visualization tools, catering to a wide range of 3D design applications.</p>
<h3>3D Modeling in 3ds Max</h3>
<p>3ds Max offers a comprehensive suite of modeling tools, known for their precision and flexibility. It excels in architectural visualization and game asset creation, with strong modifiers and spline-based modeling tools. For artists focusing on high-detail environments and architectural projects, 3ds Max provides an extensive toolkit to bring their visions to life with accuracy.</p>
<h3>3D Animation in 3ds Max</h3>
<p>3ds Max houses a robust set of animation tools, including <a href="https://help.autodesk.com/view/3DSMAX/2024/ENU/?guid=GUID-2F6BC5D1-DD45-4C2E-AC3A-D8C6E0F5DEB1">biped</a> and CAT systems for character animation, making it suitable for <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-make-your-vfx-look-incredible-with-pre-vis">pre-visualization</a> and basic to intermediate character animations. Its comprehensive constraint and controller system allows for the creation of detailed animations with a focus on architectural walkthroughs and mechanical animations.</p>
<h3>3D Rendering in 3ds Max</h3>
<p>With Arnold integrated as its primary renderer, 3ds Max enables artists to achieve high-quality visual outputs. The software's support for third-party renderers like V-Ray and Corona further extends its rendering capabilities, making it a versatile choice for artists requiring flexibility in rendering options for various project needs.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.autodesk.com/products/3ds-max/overview?term=1-YEAR&amp;tab=subscription&amp;plc=3DSMAX">3ds Max Pricing</a></strong></p>
<h2>tl;dr: 3D Software Comparison</h2>
<p>The 3D software you select should align with the specific needs of your project and the expertise of your team.</p>
<p>Autodesk Maya remains the industry standard for high-end animation and character modeling, while Blender offers a comprehensive, cost-free alternative with a strong community. Houdini is unmatched in procedural generation and effects simulation, making it essential for VFX-heavy projects. Cinema 4D excels in motion graphics, Unreal Engine in real-time rendering and interactive applications, Modo in precision modeling, and 3ds Max in architectural visualization.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1920x1080/da3e6c0a1a/f-16-fighter-jet-actionvfx-3d-model.png" alt="F-16 Fighter Jet - ActionVFX 3D Model"></p>
<h2>Production-Ready 3D Models</h2>
<p>Whether you’re looking for VDBs, alembics, or 3D models, our expanding 3D asset library is designed to streamline your 3D workflow in any <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-import-3d-models-with-udim-textures">major 3D software and rendering engine</a>.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/3d">Explore the 3D Library</a></strong></p>
<p>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></p>


A technical comparison of the top 7 3D VFX software, focusing on their modeling, animation, and rendering capabilities.

A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 3D VFX Software

<p>One of the privileges of working in a supporting role for the VFX industry is that we get to meet talented artists across the VFX industry. Recently, we had the opportunity to speak with <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNFBdbfWsd-BMDfo1KIEYeg">filmmaker Chris Connor</a> to discuss his journey in the VFX industry, and how ActionVFX has supported him along the way.</p>
<h2>Chris’s Story: From VFX to Filmmaking</h2>
<p>Chris is a full time filmmaker working on motorsport commercials and independent short films. In addition to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNFBdbfWsd-BMDfo1KIEYeg">running a YouTube channel</a> that creates educational and entertainment content focused on filmmaking, Chris created <a href="https://www.guerrilla-filmmaker.com/">Guerilla Filmmaking</a>, an advanced filmmaking course library.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1891x688/d34195d6f9/guerrilla_filmmaking_website.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>When Chris entered the filmmaking industry, he began by first learning and understanding VFX. This approach gives him a unique perspective on filmmaking–one centered around visual effects. “I know <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/don-t-fix-it-in-post-production-the-importance-of-getting-it-right-the-first-time">what I can pull off in post-production</a> before I start crafting a story and hitting record.”</p>
<blockquote>
<p>&quot;My favorite aspect of VFX is the ability to unlock one’s filmmaking creativity and bring images to life that can spark the viewer’s imagination and immerse them into a world and story.&quot;</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Reflecting on the influence of video games on his craft, Chris reminisced, &quot;Since I was a kid and got my hands on a PlayStation 1 back in the 90’s, I was instantly captivated by the stories and worlds of video games.&quot; This passion culminated in his recent short film inspired by Final Fantasy.</p>
<h2>The VFX Behind Final Fantasy VII Resurgence</h2>
<p><a href="https://youtu.be/RIlqeIDCOQw?si=UWRjz1js0Uky762c">Final Fantasy VII Resurgence</a> is an original independent short film based on the beloved characters and world of Final Fantasy VII created  by <a href="https://www.square-enix-games.com/en_US/home">Square Enix</a>. The production of Final Fantasy VII Resurgence posed a unique set of challenges for Chris, particularly given the intricate world-building and fantastical elements inherent to the franchise. Since translating the franchise into live action demanded a heavy use of VFX, Chris’s background in post-production served him well.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1280x720/84407c2ad3/final_fantasy_energy_vfx_bts.png" alt=""></p>
<blockquote>
<p>“I had to meticulously create a story, environments, characters and events that take place in the short film that could be brought to life with limited resources and budget while staying true to the source material.”</p>
</blockquote>
<p>Chris pointed to <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/products">ActionVFX's assets</a> as crucial in overcoming these hurdles, enabling the realization of complex VFX with a high degree of authenticity and cinematic realism. Specifically, Chris highlighted how the realism of ActionVFX assets alongside a customer-oriented UI facilitated the post-production process. Additionally, they allowed for meticulous <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-make-your-vfx-look-incredible-with-pre-vis?locale=en">pre-visualization during pre-production</a>, significantly economizing both time and resources.</p>
<p>For instance, using several <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/fire/category">ActionVFX fire collections</a> allowed Chris to create a realistic inferno scene:</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1280x720/ab6fba29b4/final_fantasy_inferno_vfx_bts.png" alt=""></p>
<p>Watch Chris's breakdown of this inferno shot:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HAX_C2-7wjA" 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></p>
<p>In another scene, Chris used ActionVFX <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/burn-mark-textures-vol-2-stock-footage">Scorch Marks</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/ground-cracks-stock-footage">Ground Cracks</a>, <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/energy-vortex-stock-footage">Energy Vortexes</a>, and <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/spark-bursts-stock-footage">Spark Bursts</a>:</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/1280x720/9fabb1cbe7/final_fantasy_energy_vfx_bts2.png" alt=""></p>
<p>This full VFX breakdown of the short film highlights several more ActionVFX collections:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QQeRKHvM1Ys" 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></p>
<h2>VFX for Filmmakers</h2>
<p>For filmmakers like Chris Connor, VFX is not just an enhancement but the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/using-vfx-to-tell-a-story-the-importance-of-visual-aides">backbone of storytelling</a>. It enables the visualization of fantastical elements and immersive worlds that would otherwise be impossible to realize.</p>
<p>When asked about the innovative applications of VFX in his projects, Chris emphasized the transformative power of VFX for filmmakers. &quot;VFX is one of the filmmaking tools that can visually differentiate one’s work from others... ActionVFX assets enabled me to bring various aspects of Final Fantasy VII to live action under unique scenarios,&quot; he stated.</p>
<p>Watch the full short film by Chris Connor:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RIlqeIDCOQw" 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></p>
<h2>Key Takeaways for Independent Filmmakers</h2>
<p>Chris Connor's insights highlight several key takeaways for filmmakers navigating the increasingly VFX-driven landscape of cinema.</p>
<h3>1. Filmmakers Should Understand VFX</h3>
<p>A foundational understanding of VFX not only enriches the storytelling process but also empowers filmmakers to envision and execute narratives that push creative boundaries. Connor’s experience underscores the value of pre-visualization and the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/before-you-slate-and-record-7-pre-production-tips">strategic use of assets in pre-production</a> to streamline workflows and ensure authenticity to the source material.</p>
<p>Here are some resources on <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-free-beginner-s-guide-to-learning-vfx-from-home">inexpensively learning VFX</a> from home.</p>
<h3>2. VFX Allows Filmmakers to Tell More Compelling Stories</h3>
<p>Chris Connor’s work highlights a broader industry shift that is critical for filmmakers. As audiences crave more intricate and visually compelling narratives, filmmakers must increasingly rely on VFX not only to meet these expectations but to push the boundaries of what cinema can achieve.</p>
<h3>3. VFX Gives Filmmakers a Competitive Edge</h3>
<p>The use of VFX assets becomes a strategic advantage, particularly for filmmakers working within tight budget constraints. ActionVFX offers a treasure trove of <a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">high-quality, ready-to-use VFX elements</a> that can drastically enhance the visual narrative of any project.</p>
<p>The key to maximizing their potential lies in early integration during the <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-make-your-vfx-look-incredible-with-pre-vis">pre-visualization stage</a>. You should design your shots with a clear understanding of how VFX will enhance the final product. This forward-thinking approach not only ensures a seamless blend between live-action footage and digital effects but also significantly reduces post-production time and expense.</p>
<p>As Chris told us, &quot;ActionVFX enables the filmmaker to craft specific scenes in a story during the pre-production phase since they can view, choose, compose, and test a VFX shot beforehand, enabling them to have certainty in their approach to VFX scenes as well as saving a lot of time from having to worry about finding or simulating assets from scratch.&quot;</p>
<p>If you are an independent filmmaker interested in VFX, feel free to check out the variety of resources available:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNFBdbfWsd-BMDfo1KIEYeg">Chris Connor - YouTube</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">ActionVFX Practice Footage Library</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=tutorials">ActionVFX Tutorials</a></p>
<h2>VFX Assets for Professional Filmmakers</h2>
<p>Are you curious about what makes ActionVFX assets stand out? Check out our selection of <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/collections/free-vfx/category">free VFX elements</a> and see the difference personally! We are committed to creating production-quality assets, and this extends to our free VFX elements, so try them out!</p>
<p>If you plan to spend at least $300 on VFX assets over the next year, you should <a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing">consider joining AVFX+</a>. AVFX+ gives you instant access to up to $19,000+ worth of VFX assets, and up to a 40% discount off the remaining library.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/pricing"><strong>Join AVFX+</strong></a></p>
<p>Remember to connect with us on our social networks to stay updated on our latest news, giveaways, announcements, and more!</p>
<p>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></p>


Learn about key VFX insights for independent filmmakers from Chris Connor's work on Final Fantasy VII Resurgence.

Final Fantasy VII Resurgence: Filmmaker Chris Connor's ActionVFX Story

<p>If you’re looking for a <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/vfx-careers-a-complete-guide-to-vfx-salaries-and-getting-started">creative job in the VFX industry</a></strong>, you probably know the importance of a VFX reel. Regardless of your highest level of education, the courses you took, or the companies you worked for, what matters to your potential employers is that you are a great artist. Most of the time, hiring managers are only going to review your CV if your reel looks good enough, so it’s critical that you have a great VFX demo reel!</p>
<p>Here are eight ways to avoid common mistakes when crafting your showreel.</p>
<h2>1. Make a Strong First Impression</h2>
<p>Humans don’t have a long attention span. We have things to do, places to be, and, if you’re a VFX artist, movies to make! Hiring managers are no different, so make sure the first 10 seconds of your VFX reel are absolutely killer. While some recommend saving your best shots for last, your viewers probably aren’t going to stay long if the beginning isn’t engaging. Here’s what we recommend:</p>
<ul>
<li>Start off with a banger (your best or second best shot).</li>
<li>Follow that with another top shot.</li>
<li>Your concluding shot should be your second or third best shot.</li>
</ul>
<p>Think of the first seconds of your reel as a movie trailer opening—it’s there to grab your viewer’s attention. If they enjoy the trailer, they’ll want to see more.</p>
<p>Here’s a great example of a powerful opening from one of Alexandre Belbari’s animation reels. Notice how he starts off with an eye-catching comp and ends with an iconic scene from Guardians of the Galaxy.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/97Cn1IlkFKU" 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></p>
<h2>2. Clear and Concise Contact Information</h2>
<p>Ensure that your contact information is prominently displayed and concise. A brief self-introduction card in the first 3-5 seconds can be effective, but keep it clear and to the point. Include only essential contact details, like your email and your phone number, or a LinkedIn or ArtStation link. Prioritize contact methods you check regularly to avoid missing opportunities.</p>
<p>Overloading this section with unnecessary information or links to seldom-checked social media can lead to missed connections, potentially costing you your dream job. Whatever you do, keep it clean! I would recommend placing your contact information at the beginning and end of the reel for easy reference.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AevNeJg2mjg" 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></p>
<h2>3. Emphasize Quality Over Quantity</h2>
<p>No matter how many times you’ve heard this, we’re going to emphasize it once again—there’s no room for mediocre shots in your reel. Don’t worry if you can’t make it exactly 2 minutes long. If you end up having around 1 minute of top-quality work, that’s just fine. Make sure every piece you add to your reel falls into the ‘my very best’ category. Don’t give your potential employer an excuse to question your skills!</p>
<p>If you can’t decide which of your shots deserve to be a part of the finest selection, ask your fellow artists for help. Every shot in your reel should make the person reviewing your application want to contact you right away.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1k57BmrKXkE" 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></p>
<h2>4. Detail Your Contributions</h2>
<p>For each project featured in your reel, include captions or a brief description that highlights your specific contributions, especially if you worked as part of a team. You probably have a few shots in your reel that you created with the help of other artists. When adding footage to your reel, remember to always give credit. This clarifies your role and skills to potential employers.</p>
<p>If you were part of a large production team, it's not essential to name every contributor. Focus instead on detailing your specific tasks within the project, such as &quot;Stranger Things 3: water simulation, lightning FX, lookdev.&quot;</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bXcvNw8Jc2U" 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></p>
<h2>5. Keep Content Relevant and Recent</h2>
<p>As we’ve already said before, it’s not a disaster if your reel is not 2 minutes long. Sure, it’s cool to see your progress and watch how your style evolved, but the hiring manager wants to see what you can offer right here and now. Focus on including recent work that best represents your current skill level and style. Outdated or irrelevant work can detract from your reel’s impact.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/drl6wn7JziM" 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></p>
<h2>6. Don't Overemphasize Music</h2>
<p>While <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/the-power-of-music-how-sound-influences-your-film">a good soundtrack can enhance your reel</a></strong>, remember that the primary focus should be on the visual content. Choose music that complements your work without overshadowing it, and keep in mind that many viewers (including the hiring manager!) may watch with the sound off to focus on the visuals. So, don’t sweat the soundtrack too much. Luckily, there are numerous websites where you can find music under the Creative Commons license. With royalty-free music, you will also be able to upload your reel on YouTube, Vimeo, or any other website without the risk of getting a copyright strike.</p>
<h2>7. Include Breakdowns</h2>
<p>Even though it’s not mandatory, <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-create-an-eye-catching-vfx-breakdown-or-showreel-that-will-set-you-apart">adding a quick scene breakdown</a></strong> for each shot can make your reel stand out by demonstrating your technical skills and understanding of the VFX process. This is especially beneficial when you have complex visual effects and compositing pieces. You can even insert concept arts for the scenes and effects you developed entirely by yourself.</p>
<p>Our friend Nick Chamberlain’s reel is a great example of this:</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gxFkog9ehyw" 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></p>
<h2>8. Tailor Your Reel to the Job</h2>
<p>You might be a multi-talented digital artist who does animation, VFX, compositing, lighting, and everything in between. That’s great! But unless you’re applying for the role of a CG generalist or a CG supervisor, there’s no need to make your reel an all-in-one. Instead, customize your reel to highlight the skills that are most relevant to the position you are applying for.</p>
<p>When the employer is looking for a candidate with a particular skill, they don’t need to see everything else you are capable of—they want to know if you are excellent at that one thing they would need from you. So if the job opening says ‘Senior FX artist’, focus on your VFX shots, not on character rigging, asset modeling, lighting, etc.</p>
<p>Additionally, including information about the software you used for a shot can be a great way to highlight your relevant skills. For example, if you know a company is looking for Houdini artists and 90% of your work was made in Houdini, you should probably include that in the shot description!</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/36eApvAb810" 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></p>
<h2>Additional Tips for Your VFX Reel</h2>
<p><strong>Feedback:</strong> Before finalizing your reel, get feedback from peers or mentors within the industry. Fresh eyes can offer valuable insights and suggestions for improvement.</p>
<p><strong>Presentation:</strong> Pay attention to the overall flow and pacing of your reel. It should be engaging from start to finish, with a good balance between showcasing your technical skills and your creative flair.</p>
<p><strong>Technical Quality:</strong> Ensure your reel is of the highest technical quality, with no compression artifacts or editing issues. This reflects your professionalism and attention to detail.</p>
<h2>Resources for Your VFX Reel</h2>
<p>Looking for high-quality background plates and VFX for your showreel? Look no further!</p>
<p>If you're looking for background plates for your reel, our <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Practice Footage Library</a></strong> is a great place to start! It includes over 500 free, professional-quality practice footage clips filmed with compositors in mind.</p>
<p>Our library of over 10,000 VFX assets is considered the best in the world by the world's top VFX artists and studios. <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our VFX library</a></strong> or <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">become a subscriber</a></strong> today.</p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


Looking for a job in VFX? Here are eight ways to avoid common mistakes when creating your VFX demo reel.

How to Avoid Common VFX Reel Mistakes

<p>Whether you are a movie or video game buff, or just like a technical challenge, you might consider entering the visual effects (VFX) industry. VFX is a rapidly growing industry, expected to be valued at over <strong><a href="https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/reports/visual-effects-market">$18 billion by 2028</a></strong>.</p>
<p>There are a wide variety of jobs available within the VFX industry. Even within a VFX studio, people have different specializations and responsibilities. For example, animators, environment artists, compositors, and concept artists all have critical, yet specialized, roles in creating realistic visual effects.</p>
<p>Let's get started!</p>
<p>Before we dive into different VFX-related jobs and salaries, check out the video below for must-know terms in the industry from our friends over at Film Riot. Additionally, here's a summary of the different <strong><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/vfx/wiki/intro_to_vfx/roles_in_vfx/">roles within the VFX industry</a></strong>.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vQtMmSm0zLs" 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></p>
<h2>Are You a Good Fit for VFX?</h2>
<p>While each specialization within VFX is different, there are a few characteristics that VFX artists learn to exemplify. Here are three that are important for you as an aspiring VFX artist to exhibit.</p>
<p><strong>Artistry:</strong> VFX is an art! A good VFX artist has a strong aesthetic sense. Additionally, an understanding of traditional arts like painting, videography, and photography can be very helpful.</p>
<p><strong>Attention to detail:</strong> You know a VFX artist has done his or her job when nobody notices that the scene is created with VFX. But even a small mistake can ruin the illusion the VFX artist is trying to create. As a result, it’s important for VFX artists to pay attention to small details.</p>
<p>Things like improper lighting, poor motion tracking, or unrealistic physics can all make a scene seem “off” to an audience, or worse, make it altogether unrealistic.</p>
<p>As a humorous example of how important realism is to VFX, check out our own VFX artists reacting to their first composites:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eQqjUpIX1vA" 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></p>
<p><strong>Patience and persistence:</strong> Creating high-quality visuals can be a meticulous process. But it’s always rewarding when you create a highly realistic shot! VFX artists often need to make revisions to a shot based on feedback from VFX supervisors, or spend a lot of time carefully improving a shot. Especially as an entry-level VFX artist, it is important to seek out constructive criticism from more experienced artists. The hard work will pay off, so don’t give up!</p>
<p>If you think you're a good fit for this career, here are some <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/8-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-becoming-a-vfx-artist">key things for anyone pursuing a career in VFX</a></strong>.</p>
<h2>Entry-Level VFX Jobs</h2>
<p>As with any industry, working to the top of the VFX industry requires a lot of hard work and dedication. When starting out in VFX, it’s important to try different things and be hungry to learn more.</p>
<p>Here are a few positions that beginner VFX artists often hold before being hired by a VFX studio.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qGtGkRM3CFI" 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></p>
<h2>VFX Internships</h2>
<p>Getting an internship in VFX can be a valuable way to gain practical experience in the industry. As a VFX intern, you have the opportunity to try new things and learn from VFX artists in a real-world environment.</p>
<p>Many VFX internships pay between $10-$18 per hour.</p>
<h3>Preparing for Your VFX Internship</h3>
<p>Many internship positions require experience in Adobe After Effects or other compositing software. However, there are a lot of resources available to get started! At ActionVFX, we offer a number of free <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=tutorials">tutorials in popular VFX software</a></strong> including After Effects, Fusion, and Nuke.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/u6UkJRuN6j0" 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></p>
<p>Check out this blog on a few <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-free-beginner-s-guide-to-learning-vfx-from-home">great choices for learning VFX from home</a></strong>.</p>
<p>If you'd like to practice compositing or start on your portfolio or demo reel, the <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Practice Footage Library</a></strong> is a great place for resources. It's the only existing library of practice footage for compositors, containing over 500 professionally-shot clips. And the best news? <strong>It's 100% free!</strong></p>
<h2>Junior VFX Artists</h2>
<p>This is an entry-level position in the VFX industry. Junior artists are typically recent graduates or individuals new to the industry. They work under the supervision of more experienced artists and their tasks often include creating simple effects, cleaning up scenes, and other basic tasks.</p>
<h3>Junior VFX Artist Requirements</h3>
<p>Junior VFX artists are usually required to be familiar with <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/10-best-vfx-software-how-to-choose-what-s-best-for-you">industry-standard software</a></strong> like After Effects, Cinema 4D, Nuke, Houdini, or others. The specific software depends on what kind of work you will be doing as a junior artist.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/how-to-create-an-eye-catching-vfx-breakdown-or-showreel-that-will-set-you-apart">Creating a VFX showreel or portfolio</a></strong> can help set you apart as a candidate.</p>
<h3>Junior VFX Artist Salary</h3>
<p>The average salary for a Junior VFX Artist is typically between $40,000 and $60,000 per year.</p>
<p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3Nd1OfKUyys" 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></p>
<h2>Mid-Level VFX Artists</h2>
<p>Mid-level, or intermediate, VFX artists generally have at least a year of experience working at a studio as a junior VFX artist. They often work on key studio projects and oversee junior artists.</p>
<p>Here is a helpful article from CG Spectrum on <strong><a href="https://www.cgspectrum.com/blog/advance-from-junior-to-mid-fx-artist-vfx">advancing from a junior to a mid-level artist</a></strong>.</p>
<h3>Mid-Level VFX Artist Salary</h3>
<p>The average salary for a mid-level VFX artist is approximately between $60,000 and $80,000 per year.</p>
<p><img src="https://a-us.storyblok.com/f/1002378/940x788/4dce764611/vfx-artist-fun-actionvfx.jpeg" alt=""></p>
<h2>VFX Artist Salaries</h2>
<p>Let's shift our attention to take a look at a few of the common job roles in the VFX industry and their corresponding salary ranges.</p>
<p>For a more specific breakdown of VFX artist salaries, watch this video from Rebelway:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4aPVXODl5HY" 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></p>
<h2>VFX Compositors</h2>
<p>Compositors are responsible for combining various elements such as live-action footage, CGI elements, and special effects into seamless final shots. They play a crucial role in bringing visual effects to life.</p>
<h3>VFX Compositor Salary</h3>
<p>While your salary as a VFX compositor will vary depending on factors like your studio and region, the salary range for compositors generally falls between $50,000 and $90,000 per year.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/gxFkog9ehyw" 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></p>
<h2>VFX Producers</h2>
<p>If you enjoy tasks like project management, budgeting, and team/client coordination, VFX Producer may be the job for you. VFX Producers oversee both the creative and administrative facets of a VFX project. They ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the client's satisfaction. VFX Producers also negotiate contracts, manage resources, and oversee the overall project from a business and logistical perspective.</p>
<h3>VFX Producer Salary</h3>
<p>VFX producers often make upwards of $100,000. Top-tier producers of large projects can make over $200,000. The exact salary a VFX Producer should expect based on the studio, region, and their level of experience.</p>
<h2>VFX Supervisors</h2>
<p>VFX Supervisors work closely with the director and cinematographer to understand the visual goals of the project and then lead the VFX team to achieve those goals. They make key decisions on technical methods and artistic approaches, oversee VFX artists' work, and ensure the final visual effects align with the project's vision. VFX Supervisors often have a strong background in art, animation, or computer graphics, and a deep understanding of VFX technologies and techniques.
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/viHC7Lm_JUU" 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></p>
<h3>VFX Supervisor Salary</h3>
<p>Due to their high level of expertise and leadership responsibilities, VFX supervisors command higher salaries compared to other roles in the industry. Their salary range typically starts from $80,000 per year and can go up to $150,000 or more.</p>
<h2>Getting a Job in VFX</h2>
<p>If you are considering starting a career in VFX, you have come to the right place! Our goal is to be the driving force behind every VFX artist's career, and we love seeing young artists get started in VFX.</p>
<p>Here are some resources that you may find helpful:</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/the-ultimate-index-of-free-visual-effects-stock-footage">The Ultimate Index of Free VFX Stock Footage</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/a-free-beginner-s-guide-to-learning-vfx-from-home">A Free Beginner’s Guide to Learning VFX At Home</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/5-ways-to-get-noticed-as-a-vfx-artist-an-artist-s-guide-to-an-advancing-career">5 Ways to Get Noticed as a VFX Artist</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog/10-best-vfx-software-how-to-choose-what-s-best-for-you">10 Best VFX Software: What’s Best for You?</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/blog?category=tutorials">Explore our VFX Tutorials</a></strong></p>
<p><strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/practice-footage">Explore the Practice Footage Library</a></strong></p>
<p>Never heard of ActionVFX? Simply put, we exist to make VFX artists’ lives easier. ActionVFX houses the world’s largest library of production-quality VFX stock footage assets in the world. Our assets are <strong><a href="https://www.actionvfx.com/testimonials">trusted by the world’s best VFX artists</a></strong> and filmmakers.</p>
<p>Interested in learning more or creating with us? <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/products">Explore our VFX library</a></strong> or <strong><a href="https://actionvfx.com/pricing">become an ActionVFX subscriber</a></strong> today!</p>
<p><strong>ActionVFX socials:</strong>
<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></p>


Learn about VFX salaries, entry-level positions, and some of the key positions you can hold as a VFX artist.

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

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

FX Elements vs ActionVFX: Is FX Elements a Good Alternative to ActionVFX?

Best VFX Asset Deals of 2024

VFX Giveaway: Win $800 of VFX from Godzilla Minus One

Head Explosion VFX Tutorial | After Effects

Godzilla Minus One: Oscar-winning VFX on a Budget

ActionVFX Credit Plans: What You Should Know

How to Create a Nuclear Explosion in Blender with VDBs

CG Roundup: Free CG Scenes for 3D Artists

Mastering Alpha Channels in After Effects, Nuke, and DaVinci Resolve Fusion

Technical Checklist for Selecting 3D Assets

A Comprehensive Guide to the Best 3D VFX Software

Final Fantasy VII Resurgence: Filmmaker Chris Connor's ActionVFX Story

How to Avoid Common VFX Reel Mistakes

VFX Careers: A Complete Guide to VFX Salaries and Entering the VFX Industry