Today we introduced TouchDesigner
- Introduction to TouchDesigner (TD):
- TD is a node-based system and programming language used for creative industries.
- It’s easy to learn and useful for quick tasks compared to other software like Maya or Unreal.
- Comparison to Processing and other creative coding platforms:
- Similar to Processing and P5.js, TD offers visual coding capabilities.
- It’s favored for its ease of use and quick experimentation.
- Features and Capabilities:
- TD supports real-time compositing, rendering, and data visualization.
- It’s versatile, handling various media inputs and outputs, including videos, images, and data.
- Operators in TouchDesigner:
- Texture Operators (TOPs) for 2D and 3D images.
- Channel Operators (CHOPs) for time-based data.
- Surface Operators (SOPs) for 3D geometries.
- Compositing Operators (COPs) for compositing and processing tasks.
- Material Operators (Mats) for handling materials.
- Composite Operators (Comps) for organizing operators.
- Best Practices:
- Keep projects organized with groups and annotations.
- Organize nodes horizontally for clarity.
- Use Nulls to mark the end of logic.
- Save frequently and start with smaller projects.
- Embrace trial and error and be open to unexpected results.
- Cost and Resolution:
- TD offers cost-effective solutions with good resolutions and frame rates.
- Higher resolutions may require a subscription and powerful hardware.
- Tasks for Practice:
- Create compositive sequences using film footage.
- Remix soundtracks using film sounds and apply reactive effects.
- Experiment with OSC control and feedback loops.
- Resource Sharing:
- Shared project files for hands-on practice.
- Encouragement to follow demonstrations and explore tasks.
