Resources
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Welcome to SaberComp's Resources page! Here, you'll find a wealth of information and tools to help you take your lightsaber skills to the next level. From tutorials and training videos to equipment guides and event recaps, our Resources page is your go-to source for all things saber-related. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or just starting out, we're confident you'll find something here to help you on your journey to becoming a master of the blade. So grab your saber and let's get started!
(More to come)
Lightsaber Glows
Undoubtedly, the iconic glow of a lightsaber is an essential component of any realistic duel. Whether you're a newcomer to the art of wielding this elegant weapon, or simply seeking to refine your compositing skills, our resources are designed to support your journey toward mastering the look you’re after.
Lightsabers from Scratch
Check out Ricky Elliott’s brand new all-encompassing tutorial that covers everything from the rotoscoping process to getting proper lightwrap and contact flares.
Ryan Wieber Old School Method
The OG saber method for so many in this community, still hosted on TheForce.net. Head on over there if you want a blast from the past.
Not once, not twice, but thrice.
Software
We've put together a list of both free and paid software options specifically tailored to help you elevate your saber combat videos to the next level. From industry-standard programs to cutting-edge new tools, our guide covers a wide range of options to suit any budget and skill level. So whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, let's explore the best software options to bring your saber battles to life!
Editing
Visual Effects
Free
3D Modeling, Animation, Rendering
Camera Tracking
2D Compositing
BlackMagic Fusion - Part of DaVinci Resolve
2D Compositing with 3D camera and layering support
Nuke - Non-Commercial
Limited to HD renders
Cannot be used for paid work
Scripts not cross-compatible with other versions of Nuke
Paid
Education Pricing Available
Nuke - Industry Standard Compositing Package
Limited to 4k renders
Limited Python/Customization Support
Plugins
Here is a list of plugins and tools for software packages that are endorsed by the SaberComp community in some way. If you have something you think should be here, pop over to the Resources section of the Discord and let us know!
After Effects
Andrew Kramer has a new fully featured plugin for After Effects called Saber. You can download it here.
Another glow plugin for After Effects is Real Glow, by Jae Tools, which is simple yet effective, available here.
Deep Glow - Generates a beautiful, physically accurate glow. You'll never want to touch After Effect's default glow again.
Nuke
AuthorityFX - An amazingly realistic, open source glow plugin on GitHub.
Ben McEwan’s Optical Glow - Contains “Wieber” and “Caauwe” presets based on Ryan vs Dorkman 2 and Alex vs Nate 2 respectively.
Exponential Glow - A glow tool used on a daily basis and favored by SaberComp admin Nate Caauwe.
Note from Nate: This isn’t the exact node I use every day. But this is based on the one I use and produces the same result with the same control knobs (Falloff, Intensity, and Size. ‘Squeeze’ is the ‘Anamoprhic’ control).
Practice Footage
If you're looking to sharpen your skills with roto or simply want to experiment with new glow techniques, we've got you covered. Feel free to download some plates from past LCC entries, complete with rendered saber mattes.
BQ_200
From Brothers' Quarrel - LCC 2015 Winner
Sound Effects
Many folks ask where they can find lightsaber sound effects for use in their duels. The short answer: we rip them from the films and video games. The lazy answer: you can download a collection below.
Here is a large collection of sound effects and many more SFX resources organized by Ryan Wieber, available as either .wav or .mp3 filetypes:
This particular collection was originally downloaded from TheForce.net and then expanded upon by Nathaniel Caauwe.