Compositing is the post-production stage where all elements of a scene—rendered characters, effects passes, background plates, and lighting layers—are combined into a single, seamless, final image using software like Nuke (Node-based) or Adobe After Effects (Layer-based). This is where the color grading is finalized, subtle atmospheric effects (like lens flares or depth of field) are added, and the final visual quality is polished to achieve the desired cinematic look. Compositing is the last technical defense against visual inconsistencies.

Students gain proficiency in non-destructive workflow practices, understanding how to use different render passes (like diffuse, specular, and shadow passes) to gain independent control over the final look of light and color in post. By mastering node-based workflows, particularly in Nuke, graduates develop the critical technical skill to manage hundreds of layers of visual data, ensuring visual continuity and maximum flexibility for directorial changes before final output.