Lighting in Houdini - Saved by the Whale, Part 2

Taught by Ganesh Lakshmigandan
Intermediate
Duration:
3 hours 9 minutes
Software Version:
20.5 
Launch Date:
January 2025 
Course Number:
HOU239
3D
vfx
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In part two of this workshop, Ganesh Lakshmigandan dives into the lighting, look development, and compositing processes for the shot started in the HOU238 course. Using Solaris and Karma XPU, we explore advanced techniques in lighting, shader creation, and setting up passes and AOVs. Finally, wemove into Nuke to complete the final composite, ensuring a seamless and polished shot. Along the way, participants will gain a deeper understanding of Solaris workflows and tools, as well as best practices for achieving high-quality results.

Lakshmigandan is a Senior FX Artist from Chennai, India. Some of his credits include Avatar: Fire and Ash, House of the Dragon: Season 2, Avatar: The Way of Water, Dune: Part One, The Jungle Book, and Dunkirk. When he’s not doodling in Houdini, Ganesh pursues his passion for street photography, capturing the essence of everyday life through his lens. Follow his journey on Instagram: @g.lakshmigandan.
 

Class Listing

Class 1: Surfacing Fix & Asset Assembly in Solaris

Implementing surfacing fixes for the bulk simulation and ocean extension from HOU238. We also begin assembling all assets in Solaris, excluding the ocean.

Class 2: Spectrum and Masking

We set up the spectrum for the background ocean, configure masks to blend the ocean spectrum with the bulk simulation, and integrate these elements into Solaris.

Class 3: Lighting and Shading

Creating the lighting and shaders for creatures and FX elements.

Class 4: Lighting and Shading (Continued)

Finalizing the lighting and look development for all elements in the shot.

Class 5: Render Passes

Setting up render passes and AOVs for FX and creature elements for use in the final composite.

Class 6: Compositing and Final Review

We composite the rendered passes in Nuke, add underwater effects such as caustics and god rays, and incorporate elements such as water wipe transitions to enhance the camera movement between underwater and surface shots.