Rec.709

Term from Color Correction industry explained for recruiters

Rec.709 is a standard way of handling colors in high-definition video production. Think of it like a recipe that ensures colors look consistent across different TV screens and video platforms. When someone mentions Rec.709 on their resume, they're showing they understand how to make sure videos look professionally colored for broadcast television and streaming services. It's similar to other color standards like sRGB (used in computers) or DCI-P3 (used in movie theaters). This knowledge is particularly important in roles involving video editing, color correction, or broadcast preparation.

Examples in Resumes

Performed professional color correction using Rec.709 standards for broadcast television shows

Established Rec.709 color pipeline for consistent deliverables across multiple streaming platforms

Color graded over 200 commercial projects following Rec.709 / BT.709 broadcast specifications

Typical job title: "Color Correction Artists"

Also try searching for:

Colorist Color Grader Digital Imaging Technician Post-Production Specialist Video Editor Color Correction Specialist Broadcast Technician

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage color workflow across different delivery specifications including Rec.709 and HDR?

Expected Answer: A senior colorist should explain how they handle projects requiring multiple delivery formats, their process for maintaining color accuracy, and their experience with color space conversion while preserving creative intent.

Q: How do you handle color critical client reviews when working with Rec.709?

Expected Answer: Should discuss their experience with calibrated monitors, remote collaboration tools, and methods for ensuring clients see accurate colors across different viewing environments.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your process for ensuring Rec.709 compliance in your color grades?

Expected Answer: Should explain their understanding of broadcast safe levels, use of scopes, and how they balance creative choices with technical requirements.

Q: How do you handle color matching between different cameras on the same project?

Expected Answer: Should describe their approach to matching footage from various sources while maintaining Rec.709 standards and ensuring consistency throughout the project.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is Rec.709 and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that Rec.709 is the standard color space for HD video and why it matters for broadcast and streaming delivery.

Q: What tools do you use to monitor Rec.709 compliance?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic understanding of waveform monitors, vectorscopes, and how to use them to check if colors are within broadcast safe ranges.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic color correction tools operation
  • Understanding of Rec.709 color space
  • Basic use of scopes and monitors
  • Simple color matching between shots

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced color grading techniques
  • Broadcast safe delivery preparation
  • Multiple camera matching expertise
  • Client collaboration experience

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex color workflow management
  • Multiple delivery format handling
  • Team supervision and training
  • High-profile project experience

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of broadcast safe levels
  • Lack of experience with professional color grading software
  • No knowledge of color management workflows
  • Unable to explain basic color theory concepts