Archive notice: This article was originally published on November 11, 2014. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
Shortly before IBC 2014, Blackmagic Design acquired software developer Eyeon. The current version 8 is already waiting in the wings and, in order to attract new Fusion compositing users in advance, the company has now released Fusion 7 free of charge.
Fusion 7 Features
The free version includes extensive functions such as a toolbox for visual effects and graphics animation, all of which can be used without restriction. The workflow is node-based, and an unlimited 3D workspace is also available. Further features include 3D compositing, painting, rotoscoping, stabilisation, titling, keyers and a 3D particle generator. Fusion can import and render geometry and 3D scenes from other applications. In Fusion 7 Free, the output is limited to UHD quality, and network rendering functions, a stereoscopic 3D toolset and third-party plug-in support are not available.
Fusion Studio
Fusion 7 Studio, by contrast, offers these functions that are not available in the free version. According to Blackmagic Design, there will be no further annual maintenance or subscription costs after purchasing the Studio version.
Anyone who is already a Fusion 7 user and may now be annoyed can contact Blackmagic and update to Fusion Studio free of charge.
Fusion is said to have already been used on feature films and TV projects such as "A Dame to Kill For", "The Amazing Spider-Man 2", "The Hunger Games", "Edge of Tomorrow" and "Orphan Black".
Here is all further information about Fusion 7 and Fusion 7 Studio from Blackmagic Design.
In the upcoming DP anniversary issue, we talk to Steve Roberts, CEO and founder of Eyeon, about the development of the compositing tool, which is now already 25 years old.
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