Master Color Grading Through Focused Practice
Look, color grading isn't something you pick up from watching a few tutorials. It takes real guidance and consistent work. We've built this program around that simple truth.
Over the past several years, we've refined our approach based on what actually helps people develop these skills. No shortcuts—just a structured path from basic color theory to advanced cinematic techniques.
You'll work with professional-grade footage, receive direct feedback on your grades, and gradually build the confidence to handle commercial projects. Most participants need six to eight months to feel ready for paid work, though everyone moves at their own pace.
How the Program Unfolds
We've divided the curriculum into four distinct phases. Each one builds on what came before, and you won't move forward until you've demonstrated solid understanding of the current material.
Phase One
Foundation Work
This is where everyone starts, regardless of background. You'll spend your first weeks understanding how color behaves in digital video—wavelengths, color spaces, the relationship between exposure and saturation.
- Color theory fundamentals and perceptual psychology
- Technical foundations of video signal processing
- Introduction to industry-standard grading tools
- Basic correction workflows for common footage issues
Phase Two
Technical Depth
Now things get more challenging. You'll work with increasingly complex footage—mixed lighting scenarios, log footage requiring full pipeline knowledge, and scenes that demand creative problem-solving.
- Advanced node structures and layer management
- Working with HDR and wide color gamut delivery
- Matching shots across different cameras and conditions
- Understanding scopes and waveform analysis in depth
Phase Three
Creative Development
This phase focuses on developing your aesthetic judgment. You'll study reference films, analyze specific looks, and learn to replicate them while understanding why certain choices were made.
- Creating consistent mood and atmosphere across scenes
- Building custom LUTs and look presets
- Working within specific genre conventions
- Collaborating effectively with directors and DPs
Phase Four
Professional Practice
Your final months involve working on full projects from start to finish. You'll handle real client feedback, manage revisions, and learn the business side of working as a colorist.
- Complete project workflows from conform to delivery
- Client communication and revision management
- Building efficient templates and saving time
- Portfolio development and presentation strategies
Learn from Working Professionals
Our instructors grade footage every week for actual productions. They understand current industry demands and can help you avoid the mistakes they see repeatedly from newcomers.
Linnea Fjellström
Commercial & Documentary Specialist
Linnea has graded over 200 commercial projects and numerous documentary features. She's particularly skilled at working with challenging documentary footage where you can't reshoot.
Focus areas: Natural color preservation, documentary workflows, difficult lighting conditions
Branimir Kovačević
Narrative & Cinematic Grading
With credits on independent features and high-end music videos, Branimir teaches the creative side of color work—how to support storytelling through precise color decisions.
Focus areas: Narrative storytelling, creative looks, music video aesthetics
Saoirse O'Doherty
Technical Pipeline Expert
Saoirse handles complex post workflows for streaming platforms and broadcast. She knows the technical requirements inside out and can guide you through delivery specifications.
Focus areas: HDR workflows, color management, technical delivery standards
Your Development Timeline
Most participants complete the full program in nine to twelve months. Here's roughly how that breaks down, though your pace might vary.
Months 1-2
Getting Your Bearings
The first weeks feel overwhelming for almost everyone. You're learning new software, absorbing technical concepts, and training your eye to see subtle color shifts. Expect to spend 8-10 hours weekly on coursework and practice.
Months 3-5
Building Technical Confidence
This is where things start clicking. You'll work through increasingly complex assignments, receive detailed feedback on your grades, and begin developing your workflow efficiency. Many participants find this the most demanding stretch.
Months 6-8
Developing Your Eye
By now you're comfortable with the tools. The focus shifts to aesthetic judgment—learning to evaluate your own work critically, understanding what makes a grade feel right for specific content, and developing consistency across projects.
Months 9-12
Professional Preparation
Your final phase involves complete project simulations. You'll work with feedback that mirrors real client notes, manage revision rounds, and build a portfolio that demonstrates your capabilities to potential clients or employers.