Colorist Inspiration – Creating Looks from Reference Images

Apologies for the delay in this insight, I figured it was better to be a little later instead of being a flu filled mess.

Time to get back to the challenge!

This insight is a follow up to my last insight about what makes a good colorist and more specifically how I create looks when I grade.

My Methods

In my last insight, I issued a challenge to anyone that would like to become a professional colorist.

At least once a week challenge yourself to create and match looks in lots of different areas like :

• Glossy Commercial
• Fashion
• Gritty Features
• Music Videos

In the video below I show you exactly how I do this myself.

The first method I share is how I approach every single project when I don’t have a clear idea of what to do in the grade.

I am a visual person so comparing 10 extremely different looks always inspires me to get going.

In the second part, I show you how I match to existing looks to expand my skills and help refine my eye.

I also reference some clips that are the perfect canvas for those of you that don’t have access to high-quality footage.

This can all be found on the Blackmagic Design URSA Mini page here.

Once you are on that page just click download RAW footage and it’s yours!

Enjoy!

-Dan