What It Does
smartMessage brings instant messaging directly into Nuke and Maya. Unlike email or external chat apps, it works inside your VFX software and shares actual production data, not just links or screenshots. You can send node setups, cameras, animated geometry, images, and files to other artists in your studio or anywhere in the world.
The plugin operates in two modes. Local mode keeps all communication on your network, storing text and files on a local path without requiring internet access. Global mode connects to artists worldwide through the cragl server, with all data encrypted and stored securely.
Key Features
Direct data sharing. Send complete node setups from Nuke or rigged cameras from Maya in seconds. The recipient gets the actual nodes or geometry, not an export file they need to manually import.
Dual network modes. Switch between local studio networks (no internet required) and global connections to collaborators anywhere. Text history and files are stored appropriately for each mode.
Encrypted storage. All messages and shared data are encrypted on the cragl server when using global mode. Local mode stores everything on paths you control.
User management. Add and remove contacts, limit message history length, set custom icons for your profile.
File attachment support. Share URLs, images, project files, or any other document type alongside your messages and node data.
Who It’s For
smartMessage is built for VFX teams working in Nuke and Maya. If your workflow involves passing comp setups between artists, sharing camera rigs across departments, or collaborating with remote freelancers, this solves the friction of exporting, uploading, and reimporting assets. Small studios benefit from the local network mode that doesn’t require external services. Larger operations can use global mode to coordinate with distributed teams.
Pricing
smartMessage costs $39 for a single-user license. The developer also offers site licenses and studio annual subscriptions that bundle access to all cragl tools. A trial version is available to test compatibility before purchasing.