As a camera assistant I was taught to always think about where the footage will go next–in that case it was paramount to make sure that my slates filled the frame and were legible, bright and in focus so the assistant editor could read them!–and this holds true for my work as a DP.

The best part of coloring your own footage is that you learn what kinds of shots are problematic, which makes life a lot easier when it comes time for a professional to grade your work. Besides, I like to play around and experiment, and while I’m no competition for a professional colorist I’m pretty good when it comes to manipulating my own imagery. I am not a professional colorist, and I can’t afford to hire one to tweak my reel. Tiffen partnered with Digital Film Tools and fleshed out the 55mm and Digital Film Lab products with digital versions of Tiffen filters, taking a great effects package and making it even better. Using a combination of After Effects, Apple Color and tools like Tiffen DFX, Joe makes sure that his passion for filmmaking comes through the way he intends it to–every time. Joe started his career as a colorist, and he has the skill to tweak footage for his reel in the privacy of his own home. I’ve been a fan of Tiffen’s DFX digital filters ever since director/DP Joe Murray showed me that their precursor, Digital Film Tools 55mm and Digital Film Lab, were tools he used when coloring his own professional work. Here’s how to take your footage to the next level without taking on a second full-time job as a colorist. Tweaking footage for your reel is a huge advantage.

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