Hello,

Is there a way to stop Houdini applying a gamma correct to background images (jpgs) while using an ACES config setup? The only way I can find around this is:

Use exrs which are a lot heavier but don't get a gamma corrected
Bake an inverse gamma correction into the jpgs which means a separate set of images for Houdini from other DCCs.

Neither is ideal. The best solution would be the ability to turn the correction off which I can't figure out how to do.

I don't think so. You are only able to switch off ACES in the Viewport.
For what is worth, I am running all input picture data through a small Topnet witch takes care of the correction. Checks if its linear or rgb data and runs an ocio transform inside a cops network. As long its not pregraded all good here.
No need for other DCCs to get involved

Thanks sekow. That's what I thought.

It's more about trying to generate a backplate that works across multiple DCCs but I don't think it's going to be possible as they all seem to have different capabilities and approaches when it comes to handling viewport colour management.

Try incorporating the colorspace into its filename. If you absolutely don't want it corrected, name your file backplate_raw_0001.jpg. The other option is acescg to interpret it as linear rather than srgb.

Thanks malexander. That's the info I was looking for.