If you want to build a career in high-end VFX compositing, learning The Foundry's Nuke is essential.

It’s the software used in major films, TV shows, and commercials because it’s built for high-end compositing. Unlike After Effects, where layers can get messy fast, Nuke’s node-based system gives you total control over every element of your shot.

To help you get started, we just launched a free Intro to Nuke course, led by Doug Hogan—a senior compositor with 18+ years of experience in the feature film industry. He’s worked on projects ranging from indie films to major productions, and in this course, he’ll guide you through the fundamentals of Nuke, breaking down complex concepts into clear, practical lessons.

What this 6-part course covers:

• Understanding Nuke’s interface and workflow
• The four essential nodes that power every composite
• Green screen keying, masking, and advanced compositing techniques
• 3D compositing and integrating VFX elements
• Industry best practices for structuring node graphs

Whether you're transitioning from After Effects or brand new to compositing, this course will teach you the right way to approach Nuke.

Chapter 1: Understanding Nuke’s Workflow

When you first open Nuke, it might feel overwhelming. The interface and workflow are vastly different from layer-based software like After Effects.

In Chapter 1, Doug walks you through:

• The Nuke interface and how to navigate it
• How to set up your first project
• Loading and converting image sequences
• Why node-based compositing offers more control than layers

📺 Watch Chapter 1:

CHAPTER 2: The Four Essential Nodes for Every Composite

You don’t need to memorize hundreds of nodes to work in Nuke—most of your work will rely on just a few.

• Read – Brings assets into Nuke
• Merge – Controls how layers interact
• Transform – Moves, scales, and rotates elements
• Grade – Adjusts color and exposure for seamless blending

Master these, and you’re well on your way to building professional composites. In Chapter 2, Doug breaks down how each works, giving you the practical skills to start efficiently structuring your Nuke node graphs.

📺 Watch Chapter 2:

CHAPTER 3: Rotoscoping and Masking Essentials

Rotoscoping and masking are foundational skills for every compositor, giving you the control needed to isolate elements and integrate them seamlessly into a shot.

• Roto & RotoPaint – Create and refine custom masks
• Animated Masks – Add movement for dynamic compositing
• Workflow Best Practices – Stay organized and efficient
• Machine Learning Tools – Speed up rotoscoping with machine learning tools

Master these techniques, and you’ll be ready to tackle complex compositing challenges with precision. In Chapter 3, Doug walks you through these essential tools, ensuring you have the skills for roto and masking in Nuke.

📺 Watch Chapter 3:

CHAPTER 4: Gridwarp & Depth Maps for Realistic Compositing

In chapter 4, Doug teaches the tools that help you match elements to your scene with greater precision. You'll learn how to use Gridwarp and depth maps to control placement, add perspective, and build more realistic composites.

• Element Integration – Add ActionVFX assets that feel like part of the shot
• Gridwarp Tool – Bend, distort, and animate elements with control
• Depth Maps – Use machine learning to generate accurate depth
• Atmospheric Effects – Add fog and haze that responds to your scene’s depth

Doug breaks down how and when to use these tools so your shots feel cohesive and intentional. After this chapter, you’ll be ready to handle more complex composites with confidence.

📺 Watch Chapter 4:

What’s Next? Upcoming Chapters

We’re just getting started. Over the next few chapters, we’ll be covering:

• Chapter 5: 3D Compositing in Nuke – Integrating elements into a 3D workflow
• Chapter 6: Finalizing & Rendering Your Composite – Polishing shots for industry-level quality

Each chapter builds on the last, taking you step by step into the world of professional compositing, so be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don't miss the next two chapters.

Start Learning Nuke for Free

If you’re serious about VFX, this is your chance to learn from an industry expert at no cost.

Have any questions? Drop a comment in the videos and one of our artists will get back to you!

ActionVFX socials: YouTube - Facebook - Instagram - X - TikTok - Linkedin