Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Color Grading • Cyclorama • Crane

Vectorscope

Term from Television Production industry explained for recruiters

A Vectorscope is a special tool used in television and video production to make sure colors look correct and consistent. Think of it as a 'color quality checker' that helps video editors and broadcast engineers ensure that skin tones look natural, brand colors are exact, and all colors meet broadcast standards. It's similar to how a sound engineer uses audio meters to check sound levels, but for colors instead. This tool is especially important when working on professional broadcasts, commercials, or any video content where color accuracy is crucial.

Examples in Resumes

Operated Vectorscope to maintain precise color balance during live broadcasts

Calibrated studio equipment including Vectorscope and waveform monitors for optimal video quality

Trained junior editors on proper use of Vectorscope for color correction

Typical job title: "Broadcast Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Video Engineer Broadcast Technician Television Engineer Video Technical Director Color Correction Specialist Video Quality Control Specialist

Where to Find Broadcast Engineers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Industry Events

• NAB Show
• InfoComm

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you troubleshoot color issues in a live broadcast environment?

Expected Answer: A senior engineer should explain the process of using the vectorscope alongside other tools, managing color correction during live events, and ensuring consistency across multiple cameras.

Q: How do you train others on proper vectorscope use?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to explain complex technical concepts simply, create training programs, and establish standard operating procedures for maintaining color quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key indicators you look for on a vectorscope during normal operation?

Expected Answer: Should explain how to read the basic display patterns, identify correct skin tone indicators, and recognize when colors are within broadcast safe levels.

Q: How do you use a vectorscope to match multiple cameras?

Expected Answer: Should describe the process of aligning multiple cameras using color bars and vectorscope readings to ensure consistent color across all sources.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is the basic purpose of a vectorscope?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a tool for measuring and monitoring color accuracy in video signals, and describe its basic display format.

Q: How do you calibrate a vectorscope using color bars?

Expected Answer: Should understand the basic process of using standard color bars to verify proper vectorscope operation and basic color signal accuracy.