Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
Appendix I. Customizing Nuke with Python
A lot of features might seem to be missing from Nuke—things you may be used to
from other applications, or that seem like they would be nice to have. Maybe you
keepdoingaseriesofproceduresforwhichyouwishtherewereasinglebutton.Well,
But other features, such as automation and user interface customization (amongst
otherthings),needamoreopenandrobustframework.ThisiswherePythonscript-
ing comes in.
Python
is a scripting language that was introduced into Nuke to replace the aging TCL
scriptinglanguage.PythonisnowthemainscriptinglanguageinNuke.Itisawidelyused
scripting language, and learning it for use in Nuke may prove useful when working with
your operating system and other software applications. In fact, you can control your oper-
atingsystemandotherapplicationsthatsupportPythonfromwithinNuke,makingPython
a powerful tool in your arsenal.
In this appendix, I only cover how to use Python to do very basic things that I believe are
absolutely necessary if you use Nuke anywhere—except for in a big organization that has
people who take care of all customization for you. But I encourage you to learn Python,
as it can really become a very powerful tool at your disposal.
Note
This appendix assumes you have completed
Chapter 12
. If you haven't, you
won'tunderstandsomeofthetermsusedhereandyouwon'thavethecorrect
files in place to complete the steps as written.
Python Scripting Basics
In
Chapter12
youlearnedhowtobuildaGizmo.Toaccessit,youusedthetoolboxcalled
Other and the Update button to load all plug-ins from all paths into an alphabetical list.
Sure, you can keep doing that—but it's nicer to be able to simply get to the Gizmos you
use with an easy-to-access button in an easy-to-access toolbox.
Aneasyrequest,butforthattohappenyouneedtolearnalittle abouthowNuke'sPython
customization setup works. Remember, Nuke is a production tool that relies on hardcore
knowledge of advanced systems. You need to know a little Python scripting to be able to
do that. Let's start.
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