Should you use LAYERS or NODES for VFX? (Complete Analysis)

[@InLightVFX]

Hey everyone! I put out a bonus video for any patrons where I show some past projects I've worked on and discuss how I chose After Effects or Nuke for the compositing (since I use both). You can check it out and become a patron here, thanks! www.patreon.com/posts/after-effects-or-85927423

[@bUildYT]

ok so as a conclusion: use davinci resolve :) u have ur normal layer editing and with one click u r in fusion to adjust one layer with nodes, all advantages combined in one software!

[@JaKlaro]

​@@bUildYTright, he even works with davinci too xD But Nuke is the industrie standard, and the edit page is not meant for visual effects in davinci

[@The_Daliban]

4:38 i see you chose AE to animate the graphics(: Great video, piece of art, really

[@InLightVFX]

@@The_Daliban haha good catch. And thank you

[@The_Daliban]

@@InLightVFX i do the same. Premiere for quick edits AE for easy animation Davinci for grading I haven’t used Nuke so far and am not familiar. The problem with Davinci fot me was, the nodetree is on a horizontal window which makes it cumbersome to move around, when the structure grows. Gonna have a look at nuke👍🏻 45 a month seems very ok

[@vinhdo1609]

comes on guys. you guys must appreciate this intro and video. he put massive effort on making every single video

[@InLightVFX]

Thank you! This one especially was a loooot of work! Not only from me but from those other guys listed in the description. Thanks for noticing :)

[@ArnoCilliers]

found this channel for the first time just now as a reference from 'chocofur', I'm only getting into motion graphics for the first time now and find this guy 'InLightVFX' really informative and useful. Hope I can support this channel some day when I start making something with my skills. Until then, I just wan to say thank you, thank you very much for the professional content.

[@smortonmedia]

@@InLightVFX I was so into it, I want a whole music video on layers and nodes, plz and thankyou, haha

[@AndreAdvocate]

Naw this intro was beyond fire. There is no way possible that anyone that actually knows what layers and nodes are. Would listen to that intro and not watch this video.

[@ucbeki]

​@@InLightVFXwow

[@michaelfae]

I did not...and I say again...I DID NOT...expect such a banger intro!!!!! And the video did not disappoint either...instant follow!

[@InLightVFX]

Haha, happy to provide the unexpected :) Thanks for subscribing.

[@lil_st]

THAT INTRO is what KZbin needs, not just quickly explaining what your title says. that INTRO

[@orcanimal]

Fusion is probably the most underrated Compositor. It's Node-based and has got almost everything Nuke's got + really good tracking + really good color & depth map simulation due to being part of Davinci Resolve. Plus - it's right there in Davinci so you can edit + composite VFX in the same program.

[@sotomonte_]

I love fusion and I agree, it's really good, but it does not have everything Nuke's got

[@orcanimal]

@@sotomonte_ Right. *Almost

[@KrunoslavStifter]

Yeah, and cost of Nuke alone makes it out of reach for many who don't have the budget for it. And for the price Fusion really has a lot to offer. Especially when pared with Davinci Resolve and reactor. Funny but I see latest version of Fusion 18.5 has added layers to the nodes, giving us a begging of some kind of hybrid.

[@nonamedpleb]

and isnt fusion free when bundled with resolve?

[@sotomonte_]

@@nonamedpleb Yes but there are some important nodes that aren't included in the free version. But you pay once and you get updates for ever so even the paid version is amazing

[@RHStevens1986]

I have been an after effects user for about 22 years and this is the best explanation of layers vs. nodes I've ever seen. I've been hesitant about nodes for a long time, and this has explained it to me in a way that makes me feel like without familiarity with a specific software, I could figure it out.

[@marioCazares]

The intro video is insane! It's so visually stunning! Also every video you do is so pristine and well communicated

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks, Mario! You really helped bring that intro song to life in an incredible way - thanks for your help!

[@BF-non]

it hurts my soul that this video does not have more views, it is the demand on the topic because the video is amazingly done.

[@MCJamZam]

I can't even begin to imagine much effort must've gone into this. As both a VFX artist and musician myself I can appreciate both parts of this on a technical level, but even just the creative part, script writing etc is seriously impressive. Very very well done on breaking down a complex topic into a very digestible and enjoyable video.

[@InLightVFX]

Thank you for your kind words, I really apprecaite it.

[@peppersiegel7636]

Wow, This is a superhuman amount of production quality. Awesome work.

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks!

[@ManishPohekar]

DUDE YOU LITERALLY MADE ME NODES LOOK SO EASY AND BETTER THAN LAYERS😭😭😭 THANKS ALOTTT

[@Bentamitouhaminourine]

Congrats, bro! The intro was really good. The motion graphics explaining the difference between layers and nodes were excellent. Thank you so much for your effort!

[@ASKVFX]

I've wanted to make a video like this for years but never could organize the information effectively. You knocked it out of the park! Amazing work dude! Some of the best informative VFX content I've seen on KZbin! Excellent execution.

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks, Chris! I have definitely watched and learned from your videos before so thank you for the stuff you've put out there as well!

[@rano12321]

This is like the best compositing related video I've ever seen. And yes, I agree as well, once you go nodes especially for VFX, there's no going back.

[@xanzuls]

Jaw dropping quality and beautifully executed. For compositing, once you go nodes, there's no going back, using layers would feel like going back to times before wheels were invented lol. For mograph, it might be a different story depending on the software. And that's the reason why pretty much every VFX studios working in movies from the dawn of VFX has been using nodes based software. It all started with Flame then Shake, Fusion, Nuke etc.

[@AK00500]

This is the best video I have ever seen explaining difference in working same project with Nuke and AfterEffects.The videos I earlier tried was waste of time and from this video I understand nuke and love to work in it for the first time..... great work bro❤

[@IBpostproduction-e4q]

Try fusion instead. Way cheaper 😊

[@sebastian_trzaska]

By far the most concise, clear and objective comparison of nodes vs layers that I've seen!

[@MikeRock25]

This is the most brilliant way ive seen someone explain layers vs nodes, OMG man, Excellent work.

[@CalebNatale]

Incredible work! The level of effort and time shines through man!

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks, Caleb!

[@PawFromTheBroons]

Patrick Stirling sent me. Thanks for that very thorough video. Your production value is insane, seriously.

[@Jaredvic]

I couldn’t imagine comping anything other than a KZbin video with layers. Anything in production needs to be nodes

[@TomSidProductions]

At my uni almost everyone uses layers in Ae, only a few of use use nodes with fusion (uni doesn't have nuke in the labs sadly)

[@KrunoslavStifter]

While nodes have a steeper learning curve and are generally more flexible, they are not always needed and something like After Effects has so many scripts, plug ins and other third party stuff added to it that it can do a lot of things without nodes for many users. And for those who are comfortable with it, its time saved. That being said, nodes are part of Nuke, Fusion and most 3D and dedicated VFX programs for a reason. The flexibility, parametric nature and complexity of tasks can make layers reach their useful limit very fast. But not all projects need such complexity. So best to pick the best tool for the job.

[@yonick]

I was kinda scared of nodes before and didn't really even want to understand them, because of how complex it looked from above. This really helped me to get a nice overview about the differences, basic workflow and I have a new opinion!

[@huskiilove]

This is the best explanation of node's I have seen. As a long term AE user I was hesitant to jump into nodes but this so much more sense now. Thankyou

[@InLightVFX]

Give 'em a try! They're fun!

[@Cloganart]

I love this! Thank you for the wonderful showcase InLight! It really shows you how two types of softwares have their own strengths and weaknesses.

[@PeeJ_ENT]

This video is a great explanation comparing the two methods, finally a good video to recommend to my friends who criticize a node workflow

[@InLightVFX]

Happy to provide some ammunition :)

[@FalconWingz88]

best VFX channel to date

[@CompositeNation]

Brother this video quality is amazing! Excited for the VFX course, you explain very well! Keep on coming this amazing videos and production quality man, cheers from Mexico!

[@ReachSuryansh]

What the Intro you guys made. I am genuinely speechless.

[@donghary4009]

So much effort on explain in easy way. So appreciate !!! Hope you health and happy

[@InLightVFX]

Thank you very much!

[@senthilkr1970]

I am used to work on layer based (AE) and finding it very difficult to migrate to node based. The difference is well explained. Great video. This is the one that truely compares the advantages and disadvantages of both the work flows. Very well done. Thank you

[@InLightVFX]

No problem! Take your time as you learn nodes, you will get there! Just be persistent and patient.

[@brokenstudiotv]

This is one of the most beautiful videos I've seen in a while! Thank you for all your hard work, you've been a tremendous help for me and I'm sure for other people as well. God bless ❤

[@DanielVesterbaek]

Amazing video!! Thanks a lot for taking the time to create it and share it with us all. This exact question is what I have been asking myself lately, so it was very insightful to dive deeper into it all. Eye opening stuff!

[@InLightVFX]

Hey thanks so much, Daniel!

[@Battleevents]

"Allah! There is no god but He - the Living, The Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him Nor Sleep. His are all things In the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede In His presence except As he permitteth? He knoweth What (appeareth to His creatures As) Before or After or Behind them. Nor shall they encompass Aught of his knowledge Except as He willeth. His throne doth extend Over the heavens And on earth, and He feeleth No fatigue in guarding And preserving them, For He is the Most High. The Supreme (in glory)." [Surah al-Baqarah 2: 255]

[@pixush]

I have never seen anyone explain THIS WELL on youtube! The quality is INSANE! Subbed

[@InLightVFX]

Thank you so much! :)

You just don't get enough recognition man, your videos are soy helpful, well witten and easy to understand. Thank you so much

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks so much!

[@yehonataniiii]

Thanks for the awesome video! I was stuck with an AE project where the track mattes didn't behave as I wanted them to. Thanks to the explanation of the render order I solved it!

[@InLightVFX]

You are most welcome, glad it helped!

[@Blendiculous]

James Bond intro is unironically a banger

[@rakmichal]

Wow, just wow. This is absolutely the best video on this subject I've ever seen. It popped up on youtube, I watched it, I saw the intro, and I was blown away. It must have taken a lot of work and I appreciate it very much. I'm subscribing and looking forward to more videos. I'm a fan

[@InLightVFX]

Thank you very much Michal!

[@Netloader]

Premium content and knowledge on YT that's very helpful, useful and easy to understand, that's all to be said. Please keep creating videos with this unique quality.

[@progressSH]

Phenomenal video, I love how much work was put into this, the clean voice & camera work, the smooth editing and your honesty! Lovely channel, will recommend!

[@digicraft4259]

Really really helpful. you put so much efforts.. hats off.

[@MaximoJoshua]

Great video! I couldn't' help but think "doesn't resolve just give you both?" you do have a timeline (cut and edit), and you have nodes (fusion), so you can see your actual video in either style. I know nuke is a bit more feature rich, but i haven't run into its limitations yet.

[@jaym2267]

It took me until the patreon plug to realize this video only had 5k views. Criminally Underrated.

[@joshdrewpic]

THE SONG! did not expect that! What a lovely treat!

[@CinemaZiggy]

Intro was absolutely insane!

[@keshetkaridi9428]

Phenomenal video. You do a great job at illustrating a lot of the frustrations that come with layer based software, however I think that the ideal solution is somewhere inbetween both layers and nodes. Have a look at Autograph and Cavalry, both find ways to innovate within a familiar layer based environment. I haven't played around with Autograph much, but i have been using Cavalry and it's amazing. Also one note on your glow section at 8:48 there are work arounds there like using an adjustment layer and a track matte in order to affect those layers alone without pre comping. There a lot of work arounds that can avoid needless precompositions such as using parented nulls and adjustment layers

[@InLightVFX]

Just took a quick look at Cavalry, I may have to play with that to make the mograph for my next tut - looks very nice! Thanks for the comment!

[@Hamitrope]

Great explanation of the differences between the two systems. I have been using AE for a number of years and have wondered about the pros and cons of switching to a node-based system. This clarifies a lot for me moving forward. Thank you!

[@InLightVFX]

I'm glad to hear that!

[@MissaelKaban]

really premium content, well prepared video, and amazing intro..love it

[@ryz177]

That intro is just awesome! So is the entire video, from sound, tutorials, & cats! Bravo!

[@tyler.t.seaman]

This is a fantastic video! I lol'ed IRL at that intro song. Very well done, my friend!

[@Andromeda-ai]

i can't believe this quality of content are available for free! Thank you so much such a great effort you made

[@ZeriaaZombiePro]

Great video man, you deserve lots of support on your channel. Quality content and well structured video concepts. Keep up the amazing work :)

[@yinon_tal]

Amazing review! Thanks for the effort of making this video!

[@InLightVFX]

You are very welcome!

[@nicomsanta]

wtf bro, your videos are Hollywood movies, congratulations you are a beast

[@ptrsncreative]

would you say that Resolve either is or is working towards being a marriage between the two thanks to their implementation of fusion?

[@seeqret]

The intro is banger, wow

[@BECHEEKHA]

Thank you❤

[@The_Daliban]

I'm at 3:35 and want to thank you. this is explained so well i'm stunned. I'm coming from AE and struggling with Davinci Fusion. This makes so much sense now. Amazing Content, also visually🙏

[@TechnicallyTrent]

Amazing video! I like layers for image based work, but I've really started to appreciate nodes for dynamic work like video (DaVinci Resolve) and materials (Blender).

[@InLightVFX]

Well put, I definitely agree. Thanks, Trent!

[@Easy_Forex_Strategy]

M still learning after effect but I am more into Davinci resolve. Just 1minute into this video I can see how how much effort you took to make it.

[@foxy2348]

Duuude What?! You do the best personal learning content that I've ever seen! And I'm not even rly an VFX artist! ^^ The love and dedication you put in is mind blowing. I thought it's not possible to put this much effort in a Video because it's just not financially worth it. I hope you can live of this in a good way and hope people take inspiration. I Will, by putting in the work and trusting that people want it! Thanks for teaching me never to use After effects again!

[@ciforoso]

I gotta say, that was a great explanation of these different environments. As an After Effects user, i've always been kinda scared of Nuke, but after seeing this, i really feel like taking a shot at it. Thank you!

[@InLightVFX]

Give it a go and take it slow! You got this!

[@AyushKumar-ow6lv]

the content quality is just mind blowing

[@mikebdaniels]

excellent video and execution, well done! I've been in the (mograph) industry for 10 years and usually the (vague) argument I always here is "nuke is more powerful than AE and you can do more". breaking it down in terms of the order of operations was a clear description of how they work under the hood. great job

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks, Mike!

[@iamnimish]

love the intro video & obviously the song. Thanks for sharing this knowledge!

[@gharkefukrey1391]

Great work bro❤

[@jacksimcox]

The production quality of this video is amazing!

[@ocdvfx]

One of my fav vfx artists on this platform, always putting us on to the insight will an objective and honest approach

[@Mahdi_Fazeli]

Excellent video! I really enjoy the way you explain every hints clearly and obvious! Thanks a lot 💙

[@YordleStrategist]

this should have a million views like honestly

[@The_Daliban]

Ok i'm at 4:39 and was already wondering how long this takes. A month is insane and one can tell. This is put together so well

[@gopikrishna.rajmohan]

man you help a lot, i know nothing about nuke but in this relating to AE these all make sense .thanks a lot

[@InLightVFX]

Sure things, my pleasure!

[@Exilleron]

Absolutely fantastic Intro to this theme. Thank you for that big smile on my face! :) Saying hello from Germany. Good luck with your VFX!

[@andy-mendez]

this music is heavenly

[@TechMayor]

A lot of us probably came into this section to see how others appreciate this master piece ❤

[@im_safla]

Can't tell you how much I love your intro! Stella shit dude!

[@augustino0]

This video is super top notch. Great visual and explanations.

[@CrossfeetGaming]

I used to work with layers in AE. But now, ever since switching to Davinci Resolve Fusion, I have since loved using nodes and prefer it now.

[@mk-ou5si]

what do you do?

[@CrossfeetGaming]

@@mk-ou5si youtube. I got through film school using AE.

[@poppinfamm]

damn that intro was sick along with the precise and no b.s review with any time waste.

[@lkhan5279]

i just saw the first glimps of the intro and Subscribed 🤩

[@Nova1784]

One of the best explanation videos I've seen in a while. Great job! Love the intro.👍

[@Hi-HK]

This was an excellent explanation. Especially because of nodes and how simply you explained it. It gave me more confident to use node base softwares. Thank you and I really appreciate your work ❤

[@InLightVFX]

I'm glad this was a confidence boost, you got this!

[@maotao2441]

I clicked like before I watch the content because of your intro, really awesome

[@boogss.j.3206]

Ive been using AE for 12 years and recently switched to davinci fusion for compositing. I only go back to AE when theres heavy motion graphics involved because It's easier to do with layers (well, for me)

[@marcosarroca]

First time stumbling onto your channel. That intro alone made me subscribe.

[@BurzowySzczurek]

The song at the start is awesome. I rewatched it few times. It's also a good way to hook people up for a video.

[@TeamA-f2i]

no zajebisty jest ogólnie ten typek

[@gerwaeld]

as a Nuke veteran, I immediately hit the like button as soon as the intro song was done.

[@o_cirion]

This intro really caught me offguard. Awesome video!

[@hankchen8169]

This is the most detailed and clear instructional video I have ever seen in my career. Thank you very much for your hard work Patreon support, hope you can produce better content for us Thank you so much

[@mugicreative5496]

Like yooooooooo, respect the intro, the time, effort and skill put in, dalm....

[@markiavelli]

Love the breakdown! Great Work!

[@encxlad8427]

Bro, this is such a quality video. I am so impressed. It was fun to watch and kept me hooked throughout the whole video. The interest retention was on the level of huge youtube creators like Kurzgezard or Veritasium.

[@lubaka8269]

Nodes all the way! And I must acknowledge, brilliant work on the intro! 👏👏👏

[@BrunoReisVideo]

Fusion being a part of DaVinci Resolve really minimizes the "editing" advantages of layer based compositing

[@InLightVFX]

That's true, it's definitely nice to have both the compositing tab and editing tab right by each other.

[@backbenchers3547]

Bro i really appreciate your hard work and level of information you're providing.....keep going ❤️🎉

[@jeremyevans2985]

This is a fantastic explanation of the difference between workflows. The intro is amazing. I'm sure it is not appreciated as much as it should be but if you have clients, you should be used to that. Very well done.

[@InLightVFX]

Thank you very much, Jeremy. I appreciate the kind words :)

Very interesting subject, you've said it all! I agree !

[@fernandobricenoo]

This is an amazing way to explain both softwares, thank you

[@pateto_21]

You’re my hero man. Love your passion and presentation. You’re really well prepared. Really appreciate everything you’ve done

[@InLightVFX]

Absolutely, thanks for watching!

[@tycse]

Hands down the best vfx channel on youtube. Always so clean and clear. EDIT: If you see this comment - how to do you like the vertical mouse? I have an MX Master 3 but have been eyeballing that MX Vertical.

[@InLightVFX]

Thanks for your kind comment! And I'm definitely a fan of the vertical mouse. It helps relieve wrist pain which is the main reason I purcahsed it.

[@amswil3232]

The intro is just good

[@tpaprince9856]

that's some top notch intro right there