Role · VFX
Every layer of a VFX shot, combined so nobody can see the join.
The compositor combines filmed plates, CG and effects into the final shot.
The job
Compositing is the last stage of a VFX shot. You take the plate, roto and prep, CG renders, matte paintings and effects elements, and combine them into one image that looks shot in camera.
You pull keys from blue and greenscreen, match black levels, grain, lens distortion and light, and integrate it all so the eye believes it. You own the shot until it's approved.
A typical day
- Review your shots and notes in the morning dailies.
- Pull a key from a greenscreen plate and fix the edges.
- Integrate a new CG render, matching grain, defocus and light wrap.
- Check the shot against the edit and the grade reference.
- Submit versions for the lead and supervisor to review.
- Address client notes from the production's VFX supervisor.
Skills
- Nuke at a high level.
- A trained eye for light, colour, perspective and photography.
- Understanding of cameras, lenses, colour spaces and image formats.
- Problem-solving. Every shot is different.
- Working to notes and to a delivery schedule.
Reporting lines
You report to the compositing lead, and through them to the compositing supervisor and the facility's VFX supervisor. Junior compositors and roto artists may work on your shots.
How people get in
Most compositors start in roto or prep and move up. Others join from VFX or animation courses with a compositing reel. Learning Nuke thoroughly is essential; a non-commercial version is available for learning. Photography or fine art training helps your eye.
Next step up
Senior compositor, then compositing lead and compositing supervisor. Senior compositors can move into VFX supervision.
Find out more
Skills checklist · VFX
Artist (compositor, lighter, FX)
Owning shots in your discipline.
Tick what you can do now. It saves on this device only. Print it or save it as a PDF and bring it to your competency check.
A guide, not a qualification. Built from our vfx ladder and the artist guide. Checked 13 November 2026.
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Last reviewed 9 November 2026