tinyblast/README.md

Tinyblast Plugin v2.0.0-beta

Tinyblast is a custom playblast tool for Maya, designed to offer more flexible control over the output format, codec, and playblast settings than the default Maya playblast options.

New in v2.0.0-beta

• Removed the button from the Playblast Options window.
• Created a new custom window that contains options to choose the file format and codec.
• Added playblast options such as:
  • Quality slider
  • Resolution scalar
  • Frame padding

Known Limitations

• Windows Only: This release is optimized for Maya’s .avi file output on Windows. Future versions may extend support to other platforms and formats.
• Uncompressed AVI Temporary File: Tinyblast relies on Maya’s built-in playblast function, which still generates an uncompressed .avi file before converting it to the other format. This .avi file is temporary and will be deleted by Maya after a few minutes.

Known Issues

• The .mov format currently does not work with the DNxHD, DNxHR, or ProRes codecs.

Installation

1. Download and install Tinyblast.
2. Load the Plugin in Maya:
   • Navigate to Windows > Settings/Preferences > Plug-in Manager.
   • If Tinyblast.py is not listed, click Browse and locate the Tinyblast.py file.
   • Check the Loaded box to enable the plugin.
   • (Optional) Check Auto-load to automatically load the plugin every time Maya starts.
3. Access the Playblast Options window in Maya.

How to Use

The plugin creates a custom shelf called Tinyblast in Maya with a button that opens the Tinyblast Options window where you can choose settings and create a playblast. Use Tinyblast as you would the regular Maya playblast.

Future Plans

• Further improvements to format and codec compatibility.
• Adding more formats and codecs if needed.
• Refining the UI for easier access and use.

Requirements

• Maya (tested on Maya 2025, but should work with any version that supports the same OpenMaya plugin version).
• FFmpeg bundled with the plugin.