Post Production: How to Use Color Tweaking

Many times, realistic color is just not correct on a movie and this is where post production color tweaking comes into play. There are many different ways to use color and by making small and large adjustments it is possible to completely change the look and feel of the image. This type of color adjustment is found in all types of software including photo editing software, drawing software and video editing software.

Step 1. Select the Image

To start color tweaking, it is necessary to determine which object needs color adjustment. It is possible to adjust the color on the entire image as well as the color on a specific object or figure. Once the object is selected there are many different color tweaks that can be used. You can make the picture more vibrant, realistic or create an entirely different environment.

Step 2. Software

The actual process for tweaking color will differ depending on the software that is being used for video editing. Some software will allow you to simple click and fill the image in which the color should be changed. Other programs will have you change different color using sliders. Mattes can also be used for color corrections and adjustments. All type of picture and video editing software will offer color tweaking in some form.

Step 3. The Color Tweak

It is possible to change the color based on the balance of different colors and hues. The main adjustments that can be made include the balance between magenta to green, cyan to red and yellow to blue.  There are also functions to change the midtones, shadows and highlights. By adjusting these colors and tones it is possible to completely change the color of the image.

Step 4. Luminosity

When using color tweaking it is important not to change the brightness or luminosity of the image or clip. First use color tweaking to change any colors and then see about changing the brightness and other light options.

Step 5. Start Small

When using sliders be aware that a small movement will produce a big color change. This may not be the best choice for slight color adjustments on specific objects. Sliders work the best for changing the color of the entire image. Applying masks can be a good way to alter the color of specific projects as it is possible to set what is transparent between the different layers, mattes and masks.

Step 6. Color or Brightness

Be aware that in order to achieve the desired colors in the picture it is not necessary to add or darken a color but instead to change the brightness of that color. This is generally the case with blue sky. To make a blue sky bluer you add brightness.

Step 7. Experiment

If you do not have a lot of experience with color tweaking then set aside some time to try things out. Make all different kinds of adjustments and see what the outcome is. In the future you will find it much faster and easier to achieve the desired results if you understand what each adjustment will do to the image or clip.