Autodesk launches new tools.(PRODUCTS: VFX * FINISHING)

Autodesk announced the 2009 releases of its Inferno, Flame, and Flint software for visual effects systems, along with the Smoke finishing system, in addition to Extension 1 for its Toxik 2008 software, used for digital compositing.

New features and enhancements in the 2009 releases of Autodesk's visual effects systems include new creative tools, such as high-quality blur and glow tools, enhancements to the 3D tracking tool set for faster matchmoving, and auto-stabilization capabilities. The products also have expanded format support, including the ability to input Panasonic P2 MFX files and common professional QuickTime codecs, along with timeline enhancements, including support for the Smoke SoftFX in a multilayer timeline. In addition, they contain enhancements to the OpenEXR workflow, allowing artists to perform compositing operations using HDR files from applications such as Maya and Toxik, and new productivity and troubleshooting tools, such as WiretapCentral, which allows users to browse the Autodesk systems' clip libraries and encode media using a network-connected Web browser.

[ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]

New to Smoke ...