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Inspiring
March 4, 2018
Answered

transcoding 8 bit to 10 bit suddenly will improve color correction?

  • March 4, 2018
  • 1 reply
  • 5706 views

I keep reading articles all over the web claiming that if someone transcodes their 8 bit camera footage to 10 bit it somehow magically makes the colors pop and color correction is easier. I don't see how this is possible when the original is already 8 bit. The only thing I do know transcoding does is it creates timecode, smoother playback and sometimes faster renders

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Correct answer excited_Genie16B8

You won't improve the original.  But the effects you use may produce better results when used on 10 bit footage.

1 reply

excited_Genie16B8Correct answer
Legend
March 4, 2018

You won't improve the original.  But the effects you use may produce better results when used on 10 bit footage.

Inspiring
March 5, 2018

so once I have my picture locked should I export it to say Cineform then do the effects?

R Neil Haugen
Legend
March 5, 2018

IF you need to use digital intermediate files, then yes, a 10-bit such as Cineform or I think HQ file flavors of the DNx codec would be the choice.

Some workflows based on heavy effects as a regular thing such as video noise reduction or Warp Stabilizer benefit from doing that bit then exporting a DI file to work with in the main project.

Many workflows and projects get by fine with using the small Cineform proxies just for easier playback.

Neil

Everyone's mileage always varies ...