Introduction

This article will cover the concept of Linear Workflow. Apart from the theory behind it, there is also information on its implementation into both 3ds Max and Blackmagic Fusion and how to convert old files created with a legacy workflow.

In practical terms, Linear Workflow refers to a rendering workflow in which image Gamma is carefully taken into account in order to ensure proper light computations in a render.

On the bottom of this page you can also find all the References used to compile the following articles. If you're interested in further reading, do check them out.

Safety Notice: Some of the information that will follow might not make a lot of sense on first read. Don't worry, this is considered normal, as the topic is actually quite complex. If needed, go through the article a few times. Headaches are common but every bit of suffering is for your own good.

Contents

Conclusion

Linear Workflow can be a very frustrating topic to grasp at first. One can go very deep into it but for most cases a basic understanding and following the simple rules illustrated in these articles is enough. There are cases where rules can/need to be broken but with time artists start to anticipate such situations and understanding how to deal with them comes naturally with experience.

Hopefully, after the first few days of agony, you will be able to forget about the technical details and focus on the artistic side of things. Good luck!