Color Correction vs. Color Enhancement

Color Correction vs. Color Enhancement

June 6, 2013

I've been having some interesting discussion about this in regards to my post, Color Correction. 

"Color Correction" is one thing, basically what I described - finding a reference within the scene and then matching the rest of the material to it. "Color Enhancement" on the other hand, is the work usually done in the DI Suite. This term should refer to "improving the aesthetics of an image, establishing stylized looks, and setting the mood of a scene through color" (from wikipedia). In my mind it's very important to draw the distinction between the two as they are potentially different services, may require different working conditions and time commitment, and are ultimately different skill levels - one very technical, the other creative. 

It's interesting because the film, Oh Brother Where Art Thou?, is still the poster child for Color Enhancement. To me, it's probably one of the least photographic (that is, the most effected) mainstream motion pictures ever made. Not that it's a bad thing but I think it's important to recognize the difference. 

Need Scratch Lab?

Need Scratch Lab?

June 6, 2013

At 6000 USD, Lab is not a cheap piece of software. But if the bulk of your work is processing the production's deliverables, it's an essential tool. Assimilate is currently offering a massive discount on Lab for Local 600 members, down from 5999 to 2499. This includes 1 year of support and updates. After that, it's 1000 per year for continued service. 

Here's an interesting discovery though - you don't actually need to be a 600 member to get this discount. When prompted for Local 600 Member ID #, any 4 digit number will work. 

On the next screen, put in the coupon code "LABFOR2499" and voila - you just paid a lot less for Scratch than me and many others! 

Creating production deliverables on the set is often very challenging and complicated work and Scratch Lab gets the job done reliably and efficiently. I'm not sure how long this promotion is going on but it's quite the bargain for all users - union and non-union alike.