What do you do if the color grading in videos needs feedback?

When you gain a new client, it's essential to develop a shared vocabulary, which may require several rounds of communication. For example, terms as simple as adjusting the AC can mean different things to different clients; one might want it colder and would say "can you turn down the AC" and it meant "make it colder" while another might say the same thing and mean they're too cold and want it warmer. Not all clients communicate their needs clearly. Some may not use standard terminology to express their concerns. Developing an intuitive sense of their needs and learning to ask guiding questions can help them articulate their issues more clearly. This "spidey-sense" should be a key skill in your toolbox, improving with each new client.

When giving feedback on video color grading, thoroughly watch the content to understand its context and evaluate aspects like color balance, contrast, and saturation. Pinpoint strengths and weaknesses, offering specific, constructive suggestions for improvement while explaining your reasoning clearly. Encourage collaboration and maintain a respectful tone, recognizing the effort put into the work. By following these steps, you can provide helpful feedback that enhances the quality of the color grading in the video.

When people are accustomed to seeing things a certain way, any significant or minor changes can provoke resistance from directors, producers, or editors. If this happens, let them sit with the change for a few days. They could also present the new version alongside the original to neutral parties for feedback. If these parties support your vision, the initial resistance might soften, or even disappear. Conversely, if your changes don’t serve their creative vision or story, your role is to adjust accordingly. It’s crucial to understand and respect your clients' perspectives, even if they differ from your own aesthetic preferences.

When a client joins me in the grading room, I actively listen to their feedback on shots. If the fixes are quick, I address them immediately, allowing us to approve each change on the spot. For similar issues across multiple shots, we establish a "hero shot" as a reference for consistency. I typically avoid getting too technical unless it helps the client communicate their needs more effectively. If a shot is technically compromised, I explain the problem, discuss their options, and how it will impact surrounding shots or the story’s coherence. This dialogue helps us decide if the shot’s flaws are too distracting and need attention.