What is Video Color Correction?

Throughout post-production, a variety of techniques are used to improve raw footage and produce the desired outcome. Color correction is one of many editing techniques that are utilized in this final stage of filmmaking. But, exactly what is video color correction, and is it always necessary? This is a common question for aspiring filmmakers and editors that are still learning how these editing and post-production processes work.

Color Correction Definition

When someone asks, “What is video color correction?” The easiest answer is to provide a full definition of color correction.

By definition, color correction represents the process of white and black level adjustments to an image, including adjustments to exposure, contrast, and white balance in order to produce an image that has accurate colors that appear unprocessed.

Everyone’s eyes are different, and the point of color correction is to yield precise color through all subsequent color changes or adjustments regardless of how the image is viewed or who views it.

What is Video Color Correction Used For?

Video color correction is used to create a level of consistency among the visual representation of colors in your raw footage and scenes.

By correcting the color of each shot or scene, color correction is used to properly adjust or balance out the colors of your footage so that exposure, contrast, and things like white balance or the levels of underlying black and white within the color are accurately rendered across all of your scenes, shots, and footage.

Editors employ color correction to make the images look better, but there’s more going on than just a bit of image improvement. Color correction will ensure that any additional adjustments or steps that are taken to modify or otherwise alter color have the desired result.

For example, without color correction first, subsequent modifications of color to alter the tone or perhaps the mood of the color may not render exactly as intended and accidental mishaps can occur. 

Additionally, color correction is utilized to ensure that any steps taken to produce specific effects in color that will take place across a series or throughout the duration of the film will apply the same across the board.

For continuity purposes, as well as for the purpose of maintaining proper balance from episode to episode, color correction must take place first, and then color adjustments or effects can be employed.

So, what is video color correction and what is it used for? Color correction is the first step of a two step process that involves properly formatting the colors of your raw footage so that all images appear natural and have the proper exposure, balance, and contrast.

This is color correction, which comes prior to the second step which represents color grading and is where the special editing and creativity comes into play.