5 Key Factors to Consider in Colorimetry: A Practical Guide for Beginners

In the world of video editing and image postproduction, understanding key factors in colorimetry is essential. Learn about psychology, references, monitors, white balance, and lighting.

Hello, video editing and image postproduction lovers!
Today I want to share with you 5 key factors to keep in mind when working in colorimetry.

If you are just starting out in this exciting world or just want to improve your skills, this practical guide will be of great help.

Understand the psychology of color:

Choosing colors is not random. Colors have an emotional impact on the viewer and can influence how a scene is interpreted. For example, cool colors such as blue and green can create a sense of tranquility, while warm colors such as red and orange can convey energy and excitement. Before you start adjusting the colors in your project, research what emotions you want to evoke and choose your palette consciously.

Analyze the reference:

Color is subjective, so it is essential to have a clear reference before you start working. Whether it is a sample photograph or a reference image from another project, make sure you have a starting point to maintain consistency in the colorimetry of your project.

Use a calibrated monitor:

One of the biggest challenges in colorimetry is accurate color representation on different devices. To avoid unpleasant surprises when viewing your projects on different screens, it is vital to have a calibrated monitor. A calibrated monitor will provide you with an accurate representation of color and help you make more informed decisions.

Adjust the white balance:

White balance is the key to a balanced image. Make sure the whites are true white and that there are no unwanted color casts. This will help you create a solid foundation on which you can work more effectively.

Don't forget about lighting:

Lighting is a critical factor in colorimetry. Make sure the lighting in the scene is consistent and adequate. If the lighting is poor, no matter how many adjustments you make in post-production, you will never get the expected results. So always remember to pay attention to the lighting both during shooting and in the color correction stage.

Additionally and as an important part of the whole universe of colorimetry, I would like to introduce you very briefly to the ACES or Academy Color Encoding System: An open color management and exchange system developed by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) and industry partners such as Technicolor, ARRI, RED and many others.

ACES has revolutionized the motion picture industry by becoming the universal standard for color management and production in film. This system has enabled the entire film post-production and distribution process to be performed more efficiently and accurately, ensuring faithful and consistent color reproduction at all stages of the process.

To learn more, take a look at this document I made explaining ACES, what it's for and how it has become the film industry standard. Using it will open doors to professional jobs.

And to close this tour, I invite you to join the experience of my course in Domestika "Film Post Production" where you will learn everything you need to post-produce a film or audiovisual work.

I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with you!

See you there!