Autodesk Flame’s recent 2022 update has a new camera tracker that performs very rapid automatic camera solves and 3D geometry output. The tracker is the result of machine learning (ML) developments that address specific tasks in Flame. The new software includes a more robust finishing toolset for colour grading through FX and editorial, and Network Device Interface (NDI) video preview streaming for sharing work remotely with clients, colleagues and vendors around the world.
The new camera tracking tools use scene reconstruction algorithms similar to autonomous vehicle smart ‘vision’, and point cloud reconstruction used in reality capture systems. The tracker automatically masks or ignores moveable, changeable objects like people, cars, bodies of water and skies, and focuses the solve on the static scene environment only.
The new camera tracker performs rapid automatic camera solves with 3D geometry output.
The intention here is that artists should no longer have to spend time manually masking out moving objects to get a reliable output. In many cases, the new camera tracker can produce a one-click solve and deliver workable results with over 5,000 points in far less time than it would take using traditional workflows.
Artists can place 3D objects in a moving shot and apply masking for compositing, selective effects or colour grading. Macros for re-projection also allow quick placement of cleaned up ‘patches’ or new elements into a scene.
Using camera tracking to apply selective effects or colour grading.
In the integrated finishing toolset, a new shader, ColourMgmt, works as a creative look up table (LUT) loader used to import an external file-based LUT or colour transform from a number of file formats (.3dl .cube .ctf .ccc) directly inside Action and Image nodes in Flame and Flare. The loader will apply that look to the entire picture, or part of it, using Selective FX through a traditional or ML-based key and GMask isolation.
Three modes are introduced to modify the softness of a Gmask – Free, Global and Vertices. Users can also access the new cameras tracker from the GMask Tracer node.
Wider support for standard tactile colourist control panels – Arc, Element, Wave 2, Ripple, Element-Vs – allows artists to grade entirely from a panel. [Tangent colourist control panels and iOS and Android apps are purchased separately from www.tangentwave.co.uk]
Remote reviewing via YouTube
Also, due to better Blackmagic RAW media compatibility, importing Blackmagic Design RAW media in Flame, Flare, Flame Assist and Lustre is now possible. The codec’s default tagged colour space is set to BMD Film / WideGamut Gen5.
Flame’s new NDI video preview streaming means artists can now share high resolution, full screen video with their colleagues, clients and vendors remotely, either over a closed network or public internet, using NewTek NDI receiver software or devices. This virtual experience helps re-create important aspects of an in-person, over-the-shoulder review session. The feature is also compatible with webcasting software like OBS Studio and streaming services like YouTube Live, Facebook Live and Twitch. www.autodesk.com
Finishing toolset
