Color Correction

Vettcross

Vettcross

Member
I am editing my first short film, My question pertains to color correction.
The project is being edited in Prem Pro CS5. I am famliar with the mechanics of using the color correction tools. What I really need to know is - what is the process for keeping a standard color look or signature throughout the entire film. There are several different interior sets used along with exterior. Is there a formula or process for this or is it just done by sight?

THX,
C
 
Ideally, it's done by shooting a calibrated target during production. If that wasn't done, then you've got your work cut out for you.
 
PerroneFord said:
Ideally, it's done by shooting a calibrated target during production. If that wasn't done, then you've got your work cut out for you.
Click to expand...
Ouch- That wasn't done. So I guess I just go visually?

By your method though I assume that you use that "calibrated target" to adjust white balance in post?

Thanks much Perrone for your response.
 
I just color correct the first clip of each scene by playing around with the settings. Once I get a look I like for that one shot, I copy and paste it to all the other clips in that scene, and make minor adjustments until they all look consistent.
 
You probably want to have your blacks balanced out to something consistent, not just the whites. This is a big part of obtaining consistency through Color Correction. Beyond that Grading is the process of stylizing your look, and that can go in any direction you would like.
 
What I did for my most recent was to get a X-Rite ColorChecker Passport and for every setup shoot it right after clapping. It is cool because it has white, grey, and a bunch of colors to really lock in "correct color" before grading. Really great way to do it.

Since you didn't shoot a standard target, try to choose something that is present in every shot (like a white shirt the actor wears or a prop that is in all the shots, etc) and adjust to both that and skin tone to get the right levels and balance, then get artistic after that.
 
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