[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”2%|20%|0%|20%|false|true” custom_padding_tablet=”4%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”6%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”7b1bf5ad-cc2a-4448-981c-4963d88bd6e8″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
The high-end professional color grading suite is a colorist\u2019s dream thanks to soft lighting, comfy furniture, massive calibrated displays, and dozens of twirly knobs and buttons.<\/p>\n
While you likely won\u2019t be able to match the requirements of a professional color grading suite at home<\/strong>, it is possible to get your home color grading suite most of the way there for just a fraction of the cost.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s build your home grading suite setup<\/strong> with recommendations and best practices for software, storage, lighting, and workstation.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”2514b1ee-af07-4bc3-a96b-c9aaa32f4a18″ text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”26px” width=”100%” width_tablet=”100%” width_phone=”100%” width_last_edited=”on|tablet” max_width=”100%” custom_margin=”|-54px|0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px|||0px|false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Table of Contents<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”2514b1ee-af07-4bc3-a96b-c9aaa32f4a18″ text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_cta title=”The Best File Transfer For Color Grading” button_url=”https:\/\/app.massive.io\/en\/signup” button_text=”Start for Free” module_class=”starttrial” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h5″ header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”26px” header_line_height=”1.3em” body_line_height=”1.8em” background_color=”#202332″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#072231″ background_color_gradient_end=”#031119″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”18px” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#0472ef” button_bg_color_gradient_start=”#0472ef” button_bg_color_gradient_end=”#005dc6″ button_bg_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” button_border_width=”0px” button_font=”Roboto|700|||||||” button_custom_padding=”10px|42px|10px|42px|true|true” custom_margin=”||20px||false|false” link_option_url=”https:\/\/app.massive.io\/en\/signup” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_color_top=”#3d72e7″ border_color_left=”#3d72e7″ box_shadow_style=”preset2″ box_shadow_horizontal=”-13px” box_shadow_style_button=”preset1″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_border_width__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_custom_padding__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_custom_padding__hover=”|2em|||false|false” button_border_width__hover=”0px” button_bg_color__hover=”#005dc6″ button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|desktop”]<\/p>\n Sign-up for MASV to receive 14-bit raw media and log footage for grading.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_cta][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”2%|20.1%|0%|20.1%|false|true” custom_padding_tablet=”4%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”6%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”7b1bf5ad-cc2a-4448-981c-4963d88bd6e8″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”basic-requirements” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”2514b1ee-af07-4bc3-a96b-c9aaa32f4a18″ text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Most color grading suites have basic technology requirements, including a computer, color grading software, displays, control surfaces, data transfer and storage, and other miscellaneous items<\/strong>. We\u2019ll dive deeper into each one in the next section.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/massive.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/What-is-Color-Correction-Color-Grading-Color-Correcting-Guide-Header-StudioBinder.jpg” alt=”Basic Requirements For a Home Color Grading Suite” title_text=”What-is-Color-Correction-Color-Grading-Color-Correcting-Guide-Header-StudioBinder” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n SOURCE: Studiobinder<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n But there\u2019s much more to remember when building your home color grading suite than simply buying and setting up the right technology. A home grading suite setup has specific non-negotiable requirements of the physical space, as well.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n While color grading suites don\u2019t need to be a particular size or shape, you should first keep in mind how many people you\u2019ll conceivably have in the room at any one time. You can get away with an average-sized room if the maximum is likely just you and one or two reviewers.<\/p>\n However, if you think you\u2019ll need space for more people, you\u2019ll need to adjust accordingly.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n There should also be enough space to accommodate the required viewing distances of your displays based on industry standards<\/strong>, including SMPTE viewing distance standards<\/a>.<\/p>\n Flanders Scientific Inc. (FSI), a manufacturer of high-end monitors used in color grading, says an HD resolution display should be between 3 and 3.2 times your monitor’s height<\/a>.<\/p>\n UHD resolutions require a distance of 1.6 to 3.2 times the picture height; FSI recommends a distance of around 2.5 times the picture height.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”physical” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_4_text_color=”#444444″ background_color=”rgba(158,213,247,0.19)” custom_padding=”2%|3%|2%|3%|false|true” border_width_left=”5px” border_color_left=”#3d72e7″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n That means a 24-inch HD display requires viewers to be around three feet away, while a 55-inch UHD display would need a viewing distance of more than 5.5 feet. Be sure to plan accordingly.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Natural light is a staple of the modern office space, but not<\/em> when it comes to color grading.<\/p>\n Natural light in any color grading suite is bad because it can distort a colorist\u2019s perception of color and interfere with the display quality of a monitor. And because the angle and intensity of ambient natural light changes throughout the day, your perception of color changes, too.<\/p>\n We\u2019ll provide more in-depth information on the ins and outs of lighting your color suite (along with selecting wall paint) in the lighting section below.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_cta title=”Transfer Files for Color Grading Without Limits” button_url=”https:\/\/app.massive.io\/en\/signup” button_text=”Try MASV for Free” module_class=”starttrial” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h5″ header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”26px” header_line_height=”1.3em” body_line_height=”1.8em” background_color=”#202332″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#072231″ background_color_gradient_end=”#031119″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”18px” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#0472ef” button_bg_color_gradient_start=”#0472ef” button_bg_color_gradient_end=”#005dc6″ button_bg_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” button_border_width=”0px” button_font=”Roboto|700|||||||” button_custom_padding=”10px|42px|10px|42px|true|true” custom_margin=”||20px||false|false” link_option_url=”https:\/\/app.massive.io\/en\/signup” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_color_top=”#3d72e7″ border_color_left=”#3d72e7″ box_shadow_style=”preset2″ box_shadow_horizontal=”-13px” box_shadow_style_button=”preset1″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_border_width__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_custom_padding__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_custom_padding__hover=”|2em|||false|false” button_border_width__hover=”0px” button_bg_color__hover=”#005dc6″ button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|desktop”]<\/p>\n MASV handles an unlimited volume of files and file packages of unlimited size.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_cta][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”2%|20.1%|0%|20.1%|false|true” custom_padding_tablet=”4%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”6%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”7b1bf5ad-cc2a-4448-981c-4963d88bd6e8″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”best-practices” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”2514b1ee-af07-4bc3-a96b-c9aaa32f4a18″ text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n While technology in the media and entertainment space moves so fast that a recommendation today can be out of date in a week, some of the most popular technology solutions for setting up an affordable color grading suite or color correction system have staying power. See below.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”color-grading” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Plenty of software exists to facilitate the color grading and correction process, including:<\/p>\n While some of the above are preferred for other tasks such as video editing, the most popular color grading software is Blackmagic Design\u2019s DaVinci Resolve<\/strong>.<\/p>\n It offers 32-bit image processing in free and paid versions. Although if you\u2019re willing to drop coin on an entire color suite, it\u2019s not wise to defer to a free and more limited version of DVR.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/massive.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/color.jpg” alt=”Color Grading and Correction Software” title_text=”color” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n SOURCE: Blackmagic Design<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Resolve supports several video formats<\/a>, including QuickTime, Mp4, AVC, DCP<\/a>, MXF<\/a>, DPX<\/a>, TIFF, REDCODE, and Blackmagic Raw. It is known for its ability to handle high-resolution raw files and other video editing software support. It also features plenty of balancing, adjustment, and matching tools such as log grading wheels, hue vs. hue curves, hue vs. lum curves, and trackers able to follow objects within a scene.<\/p>\n It also supports GPU acceleration to optimize the power of your computer\u2019s GPU.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”physical” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_4_text_color=”#444444″ background_color=”rgba(158,213,247,0.19)” custom_padding=”2%|3%|2%|3%|false|true” border_width_left=”5px” border_color_left=”#3d72e7″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Workflow Tip:<\/strong> Many post-production houses and color grading facilities<\/a> also use MASV<\/a> to hand off large, high-resolution files to collaborators and clients.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”workstation” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n High-resolution color grading is extremely resource-heavy regarding CPU, GPU, and RAM requirements. That\u2019s why many colorists build their own PC rather than dropping thousands on a powerful Mac.<\/p>\n Whichever route you choose, if you\u2019re planning on using DaVinci Resolve or similar software you\u2019ll need to look for a machine that can easily handle the software\u2019s minimum technical requirements<\/a>.<\/p>\n For DaVinci Resolve, that looks like this:<\/p>\n Mac Users<\/strong><\/p>\n PC Users<\/strong><\/p>\n Whichever gear you ultimately choose is largely a matter of personal preference. Many colorists who need portability combined with power prefer the M1 or M2 Macbook Pro.<\/p>\n But many others \u2014 such as professional colorist Jake Pierrelee \u2014 build their own desktop PC to make things more affordable. Pierrelee outlines his workstation in this YouTube video<\/a>, which includes:<\/p>\n Colorists who need extra graphics processing power can also pick up an external graphics processor such as the Blackmagic eGPU Pro.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”display” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Rich, big displays are the hallmark of many color grading suites<\/strong>. Just remember it\u2019s also very easy to overspend when looking for the best display.<\/p>\n Some colorists looking for affordable and effective displays use Reference Mode on their iPad Pro, which turns an iPad into a reference monitor for professional content creation workflows.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/massive.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Affordable-colour-grading-monitors-2020.webp” alt=”Display” title_text=”Affordable-colour-grading-monitors-2020″ _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n SOURCE: Jonnyelwyn.co.uk<\/a><\/p>\n Many colorists, however, instead prefer full-on computer monitors. FSI is a well-known display brand because they\u2019re built specifically for post-production and color grading, come pre-calibrated from the factory, and support fast and accurate volumetric auto monitor calibration via probes such as the i1D3DS OEM.<\/p>\n As a colorist, it\u2019s important to regularly calibrate your displays<\/a> to ensure they don\u2019t drift over time<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The only issue? FSI monitors are somewhat expensive:<\/p>\n Sometimes colorists also require a larger display when conducting screening sessions with clients. Lowepost\u2019s Stig Olsen recommends the LG CX OLED TV, which offers 4K resolution at frame rates of up to 120 fps.<\/p>\n Other things to keep in mind when choosing a display include:<\/p>\n Bigger isn\u2019t always better for display, but it can also be challenging to determine exactly what size you need. When in doubt, revisit the viewing distance best practices mentioned earlier. If you don\u2019t have enough space to view your display properly, you need a smaller monitor.<\/p>\n It\u2019s best practice to grade on a screen that\u2019s at least the same resolution as your footage<\/span>. If you\u2019re working on 4K footage, you should use a 4K screen or you\u2019ll lose valuable visual information. Grading 1080p footage on a 4K screen (for example) could also leave you with visual artifacts due to video upscaling<\/a> unless you grade in a windowed view and not fullscreen. Bottom line: Always get the highest resolution display you can afford, but be sure to insulate yourself from potential issues based on your footage resolution.<\/p>\n Always check potential monitors for contrast ratio. Contrast ratio is important for detailed color work. A 1,000:1 contrast ratio is considered the bare minimum but most colorists will want something more robust. The FSI DM220, for example, has a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio. And while plasma screens were traditionally considered the best for delivering the best contrast and black levels, most colorists now prefer OLED technology. They\u2019re also super thin.<\/p>\n While consumer displays are typically 8 bits, colorists should always look for a 10-bit display. The latter supports more than a billion colors (compared to around 16 million for 8-bit displays).<\/p>\n Also consider your potential new display\u2019s color space capabilities<\/a> and make sure they\u2019re suitable for the video standard you primarily work with:<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”control-surface” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Just like modern DJs use physical controllers instead of software controls for better mixing precision, so do colorists \u2014 and there are plenty of options. Some of the most popular color grading panels for colorists include:<\/p>\n While most of the above are typically between $800 and $2,000, and others are even cheaper (with fewer features), the DaVinci Resolve Advanced Panel will set you back nearly $30k.<\/p>\n Colorists can also add a video editor keyboard to their setup for even greater control.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/massive.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Control-Surface.jpg” alt=”Control Surface” title_text=”Control Surface” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n SOURCE: Pro Video Coalition<\/a> [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”storage” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Colorists need storage and backup<\/a> solutions to keep older media properly archived and current clips accessible at the fastest speeds.<\/p>\n And because the price of data storage solutions such as solid-state drives<\/span><\/a> (SSDs) keeps dropping, there\u2019s really no excuse not to have as much storage as you need.<\/p>\n Most colorists prefer a combination of either traditional HDDs (slowest and least expensive), SATA SSDs (faster but more expensive), or NVMe SSDs (fastest and most expensive). You can also configure these three storage types as a RAID or NAS enclosure<\/a>. For the best performance it\u2019s usually recommended to work directly from an internal SSD.<\/p>\n Cloud storage, external HDDs, optical discs, or LTO tape are often conscripted to handle file backup and archive.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ background_color=”#f2f4f9″ custom_padding=”3%|3%|3%|3%|true|true” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n \ud83d\udca1 Read More<\/strong>: Serial vs. Parallel Write Speed: Which One is Better for Transfers?<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”data-transfer” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Setting up a home studio for DIY color grading means remote collaboration, which \u2014 unless you\u2019re willing to deal with the hassle of shipping hard drives<\/a> back and forth \u2013 also means setting up cloud-based workflows for data storage and data transfer.<\/p>\n MASV, a large file transfer service that allows unlimited file sizes when transferring file packages, is a popular data transfer platforms for colorists. Colorists can benefit from MASV in the following ways:<\/p>\n Share Limitless Quality<\/strong> MASV users can effortlessly share pixel-perfect footage effortlessly. MASV supports file packages of unlimited size<\/span>, ensuring quality without compromise.<\/p>\n Seamless File Collection<\/strong> Easy collection of high-res shots, plates, and reference imagery via a secure upload Portal<\/a>.<\/p>\n Send Thousands of Files<\/strong> Experience exceptional performance with both large files and image sequences composed of thousands of small files.<\/p>\n MASV helps ensure colorists receive the high-res or raw files they need quickly, reliably, and in the right structure to begin working immediately.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_cta title=”Easily Transfer Video Files For Color Correction” button_url=”https:\/\/app.massive.io\/en\/signup” button_text=”Send Files for Free” module_class=”starttrial” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h5″ header_font=”||||||||” header_font_size=”26px” header_line_height=”1.3em” body_line_height=”1.8em” background_color=”#202332″ use_background_color_gradient=”on” background_color_gradient_start=”#072231″ background_color_gradient_end=”#031119″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”18px” button_text_color=”#FFFFFF” button_bg_color=”#0472ef” button_bg_color_gradient_start=”#0472ef” button_bg_color_gradient_end=”#005dc6″ button_bg_color_gradient_direction=”90deg” button_border_width=”0px” button_font=”Roboto|700|||||||” button_custom_padding=”10px|42px|10px|42px|true|true” custom_margin=”||20px||false|false” link_option_url=”https:\/\/app.massive.io\/en\/signup” border_radii=”on|10px|10px|10px|10px” border_color_top=”#3d72e7″ border_color_left=”#3d72e7″ box_shadow_style=”preset2″ box_shadow_horizontal=”-13px” box_shadow_style_button=”preset1″ locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” button_border_width__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_custom_padding__hover_enabled=”on|hover” button_custom_padding__hover=”|2em|||false|false” button_border_width__hover=”0px” button_bg_color__hover=”#005dc6″ button_bg_color__hover_enabled=”on|desktop”]<\/p>\n Secure, reliable, and fast transfer of massive 4K, 8K, or 12K video files with MASV.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_cta][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”2%|20.1%|0%|20.1%|false|true” custom_padding_tablet=”4%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” custom_padding_phone=”6%|0%|0%|0%|false|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”7b1bf5ad-cc2a-4448-981c-4963d88bd6e8″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”optimizing-lighting-conditions” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”2514b1ee-af07-4bc3-a96b-c9aaa32f4a18″ text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n After selecting your space and equipment, you\u2019ve got to get that space ready for color work \u2014 which may take a little more time than you might expect, especially if the space has a lot of outside windows.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Although it has several important health benefits, natural light from the outdoors is the sworn enemy of colorists. That\u2019s why most colorists choose a windowless space.<\/p>\n Barring that, colorists can also pick up blackout shades or blinds, which are excellent at blocking sunlight.<\/p>\n Just make sure to take a walk every now and then.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve killed the natural light in your space, it\u2019s time to add ambient lighting. While most color correction light placements come down to personal preference there are a few best practices to keep in mind:<\/p>\n In this YouTube video<\/a>, Dale Campbell of Still Moving Media recommends Manfrotto Lykos light panels (~$300) that are daylight-balanced and placed in strategic spots around the room. That means they only provide ambient, and not direct, light. Having the right ambient light level is crucial to a high-performing color suite: Too bright and you\u2019ll likely end up with color issues; too dim and you’ll likely strain your eyes.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/massive.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/add-ambient-light-photo-1.jpg” alt=”Cambrian Photo” title_text=”add ambient light photo” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_line_height=”1.8em” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n SOURCE: Cambrian Photo<\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text module_id=”physical” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_4_text_color=”#444444″ background_color=”rgba(158,213,247,0.19)” custom_padding=”2%|3%|2%|3%|false|true” border_width_left=”5px” border_color_left=”#3d72e7″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The most important thing, however, is keeping your ambient light consistent throughout the day. As mentioned earlier, allowing differing light levels at different times of day in your suite can spell disaster for colorists.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Even though we just said light placement is mainly down to personal preference, there\u2019s one spot you must consider placing a light: Right behind your display.<\/p>\n A bias light (also known as a backlight) helps light the area of your field of vision, which helps improve image contrast and lessens potential eye strain. It also looks cool.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_3_text_color=”#000000″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n A color suite\u2019s paint \u2014 especially on the surrounding wall right behind the display \u2014 should be 100% pigment-free neutral gray, also known as 18% or middle gray<\/a>.<\/p>\n Most colorists recommend ordering this color directly from the manufacturer<\/span> instead of having paint mixed at the store<\/strong>, which can be inaccurate.<\/p>\n This hue allows for a constant and predictable perception of color. Bright colors can distort perceptions. Red walls, for example, will make your eyes adjust to that color \u2013 which will likely affect your work, and not in a good way.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re not into painting you can use curtains, cloth, or other materials. Just get those walls covered with middle gray.<\/p>\n After setting up the space, you can begin filling it with furniture (many colorists prefer black) and your technology choices.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ custom_padding_last_edited=”on|phone” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ background_color=”#f5f5f5″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”2%|20%|2%|20%|true|true” custom_padding_tablet=”4%|0%|4%|0%|true|true” custom_padding_phone=”6%|0%|6%|0%|true|true” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”7b1bf5ad-cc2a-4448-981c-4963d88bd6e8″ custom_margin=”||||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||true|true” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.3″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text module_id=”conclusion” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ _module_preset=”2514b1ee-af07-4bc3-a96b-c9aaa32f4a18″ text_text_color=”#000000″ text_line_height=”1.8em” header_2_text_color=”#000000″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n There are many considerations when setting up a home color grading studio, from the office space to the lighting to technology. At minimum, color grading studios need:<\/p>\n But no matter which route you take, you will need a tool to send and receive large high-res or raw files quickly and reliably. MASV is trusted by colorists<\/a> and finishing artists worldwide for reliable and easy-to-use file transfer that boasts some of the fastest transfer speeds in the industry.<\/p>\n MASV runs on a usage-based pricing plan with rates as low as $0.05 depending on how much data you plan on using.<\/p>\n\n
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Basic Requirements For a Home Color Grading Suite<\/h2>\n
Room Size<\/h3>\n
Viewing Distance<\/h3>\n
Natural Light<\/h3>\n
Best Practices: Color Grading Software and Hardware<\/h2>\n
Color Grading and Correction Software<\/h3>\n
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Workstation<\/h3>\n
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Display<\/h3>\n
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Size<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Resolution<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Technology<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Bit depth<\/strong><\/h4>\n
Color space\/gamut<\/strong><\/h4>\n
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Control Surface<\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nStorage<\/h3>\n
Data Transfer<\/h3>\n
Optimizing Lighting Conditions<\/h2>\n
Natural Light: Eliminate It!<\/h3>\n
Add Ambient Light<\/h3>\n
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Add Bias\/Back Light<\/h3>\n
Paint the Walls (Or Cover Them Some Other Way)<\/h3>\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n
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