Python Optimization and Pro Tips For TouchDesigner

Python in TouchDesigner is a very powerful tool but one that can also be difficult to approach and can introduce performance issues in larger projects. One of our community members asked for tips on this tricky subject overall, when to use Python, and when to avoid it. Elburz dives deep into Python's recent developments and optimizations as the grounding for his philosophy of how to use it effectively in TouchDesigner. He covers not only practical strategies and tips but also the high level workflow approaches and mindset he uses when approaching large-scale high-end TouchDesigner projects that use Python extensively.

[InfiniteEditsHD]

Hey Elburz, I took your advice and just kept going on codecademy every night until i finished that python course. Now that I'm back in touchdesigner I feel so much more comfortable with being able to put my ideas into practical use and I'm happy I spent the time learning python fully. I've found I'm hitting the grey area you were speaking about. I'm trying to process several values across several channels in realtime for an LED project and im finding that the CPU is starting to get really high.
Is GLSL the way to go about processing that much data in realtime everyframe?

[PabloLucio]

Hi Elburz! As usual, great and useful content you shared in here. I think it's time to learn some Python to improve my TD skills, but I don't know how far should I get. Do you think there is some Python knowledge which is essential for TD? I mean, I am about to start learning, but I don't want to dive in it deeper than necessary. Specially when I have to learn GLSL right after learning Python! There are so many things, but I really would like to make a living with TD (as your other video claims). So... Could you please tell me how deep should I dive in? Classes, objects, etc? Thank you very much, Elburz. Inspiring as always.