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VFTS: A new series of interviews bringing on-set voices to post production professionals
Have you ever wondered how sets are actually lit? How do the discussions go between the different on-set crafts?
At the start of a new interview series for Mixing Light, join me for a detailed conversation with Rick Kalivoda, a professional Gaffer (The Director of Photography’s right hand) with more than 30 years of experience in the industry working on feature films, TV shows, Superbowl commercials, and more.
Rick shares a ton of valuable information on how the technical and artistic choices on set dramatically shape the quality of light that ultimately creates the images we edit and grade.
“You have to understand this is such a changing industry …
Rick Kalivoda, Owner & Gaffer, First Unit Production Services
The development of the LEDs has changed as fast, as us having to use those LEDs.
So five years ago it’s not the same the LEDs that we’re using now, nor the science and the mixing of those.“
Why does this matter to Post Professionals?
Getting inside the mind of your DP is an integral part of being a professional colorist.
Therefore, a better understanding of the realities of on-set lighting mechanics and the ability to connect those with the images in front of you will help you fully realize your initial vision.
For example, knowing how different lights used on the set affect the color balance of your image will help you unpick problems created by on-set choices and compromises made in the heat of the moment, helping you ‘fix it in post.’
You may also be able to offer lighting-specific feedback from test shoots when you understand how the color of certain lights will affect the spectrum of colors captured by the sensor.
For example, if the lights are too green, they will wash out some of the red in the skin tones, making preserving those more challenging for you later.
In this Insight, Rick Kalivoda, owner of First Unit Production Services, a grip and lighting company in central Florida, offers a unique perspective on how light is created and shaped on set and the impact of new lighting technologies used today.
The Goal of This Series
Many people who work in post-production have never had the opportunity to be on set while the project is being filmed.
In this series, we’ll be introduced to some of the many roles that have a direct influence on the images we work with in the project’s editing and color-grading phases.
Stay tuned for more episodes.
Key takeaways from this Insight
By the end of this Insight, you should understand:
Mentioned in this Insight:
Related Mixing Light Insights
Chapters
Questions or Comments? Leave a comment!
Is this Insight useful to you? Let us know who you would like to hear from in this new series of interviews as we learn more about the craft of filmmaking from our comrades on set!
– Rich
