Color Grading
Color grading is the process of adjusting and enhancing the colors in videos, films, or commercials to create a specific mood or look. It's similar to how photographers edit photos, but for moving images. Color graders work with directors and cinematographers to ensure that every scene in a film or video has the right visual feel, whether that's making a scene look warmer, cooler, more dramatic, or maintaining consistency throughout the whole project. This process happens after the filming is complete, during what's called post-production. Some people also call this process "color correction" or "color timing," though color grading typically refers to the more creative and aesthetic aspects of the work.
Examples in Resumes
Performed Color Grading for over 20 commercial projects using DaVinci Resolve
Led Color Correction and Color Grading for feature-length documentary
Collaborated with directors to achieve specific visual styles through Color Timing and Color Grading
Typical job title: "Color Graders"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Color Graders
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult client feedback during a color grading session?
Expected Answer: A senior colorist should discuss their experience in managing client expectations, translating subjective feedback into technical adjustments, and maintaining efficient workflow while incorporating changes. They should mention examples of successfully navigating challenging client situations.
Q: How do you approach color grading for different delivery formats (cinema, streaming, broadcast)?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of how to adjust their work for different viewing environments and technical requirements, ensuring the final product looks consistent across various platforms.
Mid Level Questions
Q: Can you explain your process for matching shots from different cameras?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain how they ensure consistency between footage from different sources, including analyzing color values, matching skin tones, and maintaining continuity throughout a project.
Q: How do you create and use reference stills in your workflow?
Expected Answer: Should explain their method for maintaining consistency across scenes and episodes, including creating style guides and reference images for different scenes or looks.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What's the difference between primary and secondary color correction?
Expected Answer: Should explain that primary corrections affect the entire image (like overall brightness or contrast), while secondary corrections target specific areas or colors in the image.
Q: How do you ensure proper skin tones in your color grading?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate basic understanding of how to maintain natural-looking skin tones while making other creative adjustments to the image.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic color correction techniques
- Understanding of color theory
- Familiarity with common grading software
- Basic technical knowledge of video formats
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced color matching abilities
- Experience with multiple delivery formats
- Client communication skills
- Efficient workflow management
Senior (5+ years)
- High-end commercial or feature film experience
- Advanced creative look development
- Team leadership and project management
- Complex color pipeline management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of color theory basics
- Lack of experience with industry-standard software
- Poor communication skills or inability to take direction
- No knowledge of different video formats and technical specifications
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