Video Editing · Beginner level

Beginner level · Module 4: Colour Correction and Titles · Lesson 1 of 3

Colour Correction Basics

Fix exposure and colour so footage looks natural.

In this lesson you will

  • Correct exposure and contrast
  • Fix white balance

Key concepts

exposurecontrastwhite balancescopes

The lesson

Correction comes before creative grading: first make shots look natural and consistent.

Adjust exposure so faces are well lit and nothing important is pure black or pure white; adjust white balance so white objects look white, not blue or orange.

Scopes such as the waveform show brightness objectively, because screens and eyes can mislead.

Step by step

  1. Open the waveform scope.
  2. Correct exposure.
  3. Correct white balance.
  4. Match two interview shots.

Practice activity

Correct the colour of all shots in the sequence.

Expected result: Natural, consistent shots.

Check your understanding

  1. What should look white after white balance?

    Show answer

    White objects.

  2. Why use scopes?

    Show answer

    They measure brightness and colour objectively.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.