Post-production is the last piece of the filmmaking puzzle. At heart, it is about chopping and weaving bits and pieces of the entire film. Post-production involves several technicalities. That is precisely why even industry veterans have a hard time mastering it, let alone beginners. There is no shortage of films that did not end up doing well only because they were manhandled by the post-production folks. If you are new to the filmmaking world, you are better off outsourcing this complicated task to seasoned post-production services providers.
Wondering what these professionals do that sets them apart from a typical filmmaker? Well, among several other things, they follow a step-by-step process to spice up their post-production game:
Choose A Suitable Editing Method
First thing first; handpick an editing format that goes best with your style of work. There are multiple types of editing including linear, non-linear, offline, online, insert, and so on. This is a very crucial stage. If you select an appropriate editing format, it will make things a lot easier for you down the road.
Color correction
Colors play a huge role to spark up the footage. They are a key component that optimizes the visual experience. Hence, you should be at your supreme best while delving into the color correction process.
The core objective of color correction is to enhance image accuracy by skillfully manipulating exposure levels, white balance, and contrast. It also improves visual consistency to a significant degree. Color correction does not require you to introduce major tweaks to the footage. Rather, it is all about performing subtle changes.
Contrary to the popular assumption, an expensive camera is no guarantee to give you the desired results. You will have to learn different techniques to really excel at color correction.
Color Grading
Color grading is often mistaken for color correction. But it is a completely different ball game. Color grading involves tasks such as changing visual tone and eliminating distracting objects. According to professional filmmakers, color grading is a tad bit more technical compared to color correction. You have to be techy as well as creative to get the job done.
If you are iffy about the outcome, we would recommend you get hooked up to an experiencedpost-production services company for color grading.
Lock Music
Cutting corners on music is commonplace among new filmmakers. But that is not how proficient post-production services companies operate. They always give top priority to the music. Therefore, you should not shy away from investing in quality music as it helps to trigger specific feelings in the audience.
Another mistake people commit is that they add songs without obtaining their copyrights. It can land you in danger big time. Your video or film will become a subject to controversy. Worse yet, you might be liable to pay a handsome amount if the opposite party files a suit. So go for original songs (of course, after buying their rights.)
Generate Titles and credits
Not many filmmakers invest much time and energy when it comes to titles and credits. But little do they know that they are super important to capture the audience’s attention right from the get-go. All renowned names in the world of the post-production services industry make it a point to push the envelope at this front.
Add Visual Effects
Visual effects can virtually take the final product to a different level. They can singlehandedly transform dull footage into a captivating one. However, it is typically observed that rookies get carried away by a myriad of transitions the latest software have to offer. It proves to be counterproductive and scares the viewers away. The real pros do not overexploit the visual effects and keep their usage at a minimum to maintain an element of originality.
Create A Trailer
We have made it to the final part. As a rule of thumb, a trailer should not exceed 2 minutes. The trailer has to be a juicy bit that reveals just about enough to tempt people into watching the film.
Summing Up The post-production process has somehow developed the reputation of being the most challenging aspect of filmmaking. But you can actually sail through it without much fuss as long as you stick to the steps mentioned above.