Baselight

Term from Color Correction industry explained for recruiters

Baselight is a professional color grading system used in movies, TV shows, and commercials to adjust and perfect the colors and overall look of video content. Think of it like a very advanced photo editing tool, but for video. It's made by a company called FilmLight and is considered one of the top tools in the industry. Colorists (professionals who adjust video colors) use Baselight to make sure all scenes in a film match visually and create specific moods through color. Other similar systems include DaVinci Resolve and Lustre, which all help make video content look polished and professional.

Examples in Resumes

Performed final color grading on feature films using Baselight

Managed Baselight workflow for Netflix series color correction

Led team of junior colorists on Baselight systems for commercial projects

Typical job title: "Colorists"

Also try searching for:

Digital Colorist Color Grading Artist Senior Colorist Color Correction Artist Post-Production Colorist Film Colorist DI Colorist

Where to Find Colorists

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle color grading for multi-camera productions?

Expected Answer: A senior colorist should explain their process for matching footage from different cameras, creating consistent looks across scenes, and managing client expectations throughout the process.

Q: What's your approach to creating and maintaining color consistency across an entire series?

Expected Answer: They should discuss tools like reference stills, color libraries, and how they document their work to maintain consistency across episodes and seasons.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you handle HDR color grading?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the basics of working with high dynamic range content and the differences between HDR and standard dynamic range workflows.

Q: What's your process for matching shots from different lighting conditions?

Expected Answer: Should describe their approach to analyzing footage, using scopes, and making adjustments to create visual consistency.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic tools in Baselight you use most often?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with basic color correction tools like lift/gamma/gain, curves, and qualifiers.

Q: How do you organize your grading timeline?

Expected Answer: Should explain basic project organization, creating versions, and managing client feedback.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic color correction techniques
  • Understanding of color theory
  • Basic Baselight operations
  • Following established look guidelines

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced color matching
  • Working with different camera formats
  • Creating custom looks
  • Client interaction skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex grade management
  • Team supervision
  • Technical troubleshooting
  • High-end feature film experience

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of color theory
  • Lack of experience with professional video formats
  • Unable to explain basic grading terminology
  • No experience working with clients or directors