Multi-layer FX

Breakdown

This shot was developed as a compact reel piece to demonstrate layered simulation work within a single cinematic beat. The intent was to combine destruction, energy, lava, and smoke in a way that felt dense and dynamic while still reading clearly in a short presentation format.

The main work was built in Houdini, with attention on rock breakup, procedural energy motion, lava interaction, smoke shaping, and the timing relationship between the different simulation layers. I treated the shot as an exercise in control and readability, adjusting the pacing of each element so the sequence would feel connected rather than overloaded.

Post FX

All assets were assembled in Solaris for lighting, layout, and scene organization, and rendered using Karma. Multi-pass renders were then composited in Nuke, where I handled integration, color balance, and final image polish to ensure consistency across all simulation layers.

Technical Focus

The main technical challenge was keeping the shot cohesive while several effects overlapped. I focused on balancing primary motion with secondary detail so the sequence felt layered rather than noisy.

Additional Notes

Character model provided