Flame

Overview

Flame (full name Autodesk Flame) is professional software for visual effects (VFX), compositing, color grading, and finishing. It is used in the post-production of feature films, TV series, trailers, and especially commercials, combining editing, keying, compositing, color correction, and motion graphics into a single environment to produce the final master.

Unlike purely lighting or grip terms, Flame is a post-production tool in the Camera/Technique category – meaning it's part of the workflow *after* shooting, not the equipment on set. Flame is typically operated by Flame Artists, Compositing Artists, Colorists, and Finishing Artists.

Workflow and Functions

• Action: 3D compositing environment where layers, cameras, and lights are combined in an interactive 3D space; encompasses keying, tracking, transformation, deformation, lighting, and shading.
• Batch: node-based compositing for iterative linking of 2D and 3D elements, integrated with the timeline and desktop.
• Machine Learning Tools: semantic keyers that automatically isolate bodies, heads, faces, skies, or prominent objects, as well as an ML-powered slow-motion feature (Slow-Mo) in the Timewarp node.
• Color Grading: integrated color correction, including support for Tangent colorist control surfaces.
• Color Management: starting with version 2026, Flame relies on the open standard OpenColorIO (OCIO), replacing the previous Autodesk Color Management (SynColor).

Technical Specifications and Product Family

Flame is exclusively distributed via subscription. The Flame family includes the stripped-down variants Flare and Flame Assist alongside Flame itself. The color grading derivative Lustre was discontinued after version 2025.

Flame, Flare, and Flame Assist run on Linux and macOS; Lustre most recently required a Linux workstation.