Color is fundamental in design and visual storytelling, as it conveys meaning beyond what we see on screen. We use it to describe objects, express emotion, and evoke responses among audiences. In the post production process of a video production, perfection of color is done through color grading or color correction. Once a job only for color professionals, color grading and color correction tools today are found in most video editing programs and is accessible to anyone. Often used interchangeably and mistaken for one another, color correction and color grading are in fact different.
Color correction is usually done first. This is because raw footage tends to be over-saturated and the colors need to be balanced out. The process of color correcting does just that, by making sure footage looks exactly the way that the human eye sees things. If the white and black levels match what the human eye sees as white and black, then the other colors should be balanced as a result.
Color grading is the next step, where you create the actual aesthetic of your video. But this is an entirely optional process, especially if the film is meant to be as realistic as possible. However, the right color grading does help convey a visual tone or mood to heighten the narrative.
Try describing a color without referencing something you can see. It’s pretty hard to do. And similarly, color-editing processes might be better understood through video. Luckily, videos are what we specialize in at Vimeo. Take a look at this concise, 30-second visual explanation of the differences between color correction and color grading:
Let’s say you have a bigger budget production, though. You might be able to get a colorist, who can bring their refined training and expertise to better your film. Colorists take on a hefty role, as they usually put some of the final touches on a film. Not only do they help craft the look and feel of the story, but they also make sure that the shots throughout every scene match each other, keeping your visuals consistent.
Commentaires