Conforming
vs Compositing
Technical · VFX Finishing
These are two key VFX finishing steps, often confused. Conforming prepares the final timeline faithful to the edit; compositing creates and integrates the visual effects. They follow and complete each other.
Two steps, two roles
Conforming
Rebuild the final sequence at full resolution from the approved edit: gather the original source rushes, apply the exact cuts, transitions and edit effects. The result is a clean base, faithful to the edit.
Compositing
Combine multiple sources — live action, green screen, 3D elements, matte paintings, 2D effects — into a single believable image, matching light, color, shadows, grain and perspective.
Why they are complementary
Without clean conforming, compositing would build on an unstable base. Without compositing, conforming would remain a plain assembly with no effects. In Autodesk Flame, both flow within a single environment, which speeds up iterations and guarantees a consistent final render.
Concrete examples
SK-II – Pitera
High-resolution conforming for giant screens in Tokyo & China.
View the project → Multi-layer compositingChanel – Take Your Chance
Live action / 3D blend in a dense, dreamlike world.
View the project → 3D compositingCôte d'Or – Force de Caractère
Integration of 3D elements and effects on live footage.
View the project →Also read what a Flame Artist does.
Frequently asked questions
What is conforming?
Rebuilding the final high-resolution timeline from the approved edit, before compositing and grading.
What is compositing?
The believable assembly of multiple sources (live action, green screen, 3D) into a single image, with light and color management.
Is it the same job?
Two distinct but complementary steps, often done by the same Flame Artist.
A finishing to conform or composite?
Alexandre Rouanet, freelance Flame Artist in Paris, available remote.