Color Management Pipeline

"I just want to see the same image everywhere..."

The Chaos

What I can do for you

In image post-production, the same challenges appear again and again: color management, camera data ingest, and shot publishing.

“I just want to see the same image in all my software and make sure my client sees what I see.”

This should be simple — but it rarely is.

I can help you understand the basics of color spaces and set up your DCC applications so they “talk to each other” when files move through your pipeline — from raw data ingest, through renders, to final previews.

Key concepts demystified

• Camera raw data development
• Edit conform
• Camera metadata
• Shot sequence parameters (resolution, aspect ratio, fps, bit depth, format, codec, naming)
• Shot publishing
• Color-managed DCC environments
• Color spaces
• Scene Referred vs. Display Referred workflows in post production
• ACES
• LUTs
• Preview files best practices

My experience

I built these skills originally as Head of 2D at UPP Advertising. Compositors are responsible for the final image, so we needed a robust pipeline from ingest to delivery. I stepped into the Datalab Department, created needed workflows and an imaging pipeline that allowed every department to work together with color-managed files and proper metadata.

To be clear — I’m not a developer. I don’t write code. What I do is give you the necessary overview, design and configure workflows using built-in tools, or guide your in-house developers if custom solutions are needed.

How it works

There are couple of basic steps necessary for the solutions to work.

1. Analysis – I review your current setup to understand your workflow needs.
2. Solution – I design a pipeline and setup that fits your needs.
3. Deployment – I configure your DCC apps and explain the essential color imaging theory.
4. Documentation – You receive written guides with screenshots, tailored to your environment.

Who I work with

Schools

I work with both private and public schools that focus on visual media. Whether it’s photography, film, animation, or VFX, students face the same challenges as professionals: inconsistent workflows, wrong image data handling, and confusing color management.

I usually begin with a presentation on color management theory to build a strong foundation. If possible, we then move into hands-on workshops where students bring their own project files and real-life problems — things like issues with their cameras, PC/Mac hardware, or software setups.

By nature, school environments are harder to standardize, since hardware and software can vary widely and most schools don’t have dedicated pipeline staff. Because of that, the first step is usually more theory-oriented. But if there’s enough interest, a follow-up workshop can focus on practical troubleshooting with student projects.

Method:
On-site or remote presentations & workshops + documentation for selected apps

Since I’m based in Prague, I can travel to any school in the Czech Republic, which often works best because students can ask questions directly during the sessions. For schools abroad, I provide remote presentations and workshops through Zoom or other platforms.

Individual Creators

More and more freelancers and independent creators run into the same issues as large studios when working with visual content — I know from experience.

When you’re using your favorite camera gear alongside tools like DaVinci Resolve, the Adobe suite, and 3D apps such as Blender, Unreal, or Cinema 4D, each program interprets color differently. Without a standardized workflow, it’s almost impossible to keep things consistent.

Method:
Remote presentations & setup showcase + documentation for selected apps

Because I cannot meet every client in person, I provide this service remotely via Zoom or similar platforms. The process usually begins with a theory overview, where I explain the main concepts of color management so you’ll understand not only which settings to use but also why they matter. After that, we move into a practical setup. Before the session, you tell me which applications you use; I replicate that setup on my side, then share my screen to walk you step by step through configuring each app. At the end, you’ll also receive documentation tailored to your setup, so you have a clear record for future use.

Studios

This is the most thorough and involved way to use my services — building or fixing your in-house workflows and pipelines for your team.

I can design a tailor-made solution for your team, explaining essential concepts like color spaces in clear, artist-friendly terms. I’ll standardize your workflows across departments so that everyone, from compositors to 3D artists, DMP artists and Colorists, sees the same image instead of wasting hours fighting mismatched outputs.

I also work with studios who need urgent support mid-project. If your next client delivery is approaching and things are spiraling due to unclear ingest or chaotic color management, I can step in with a practical “emergency fix.” It won’t cover every detail of a full pipeline setup, but it will get you back on track and help you meet your deadline.

Method:
On-site analysis and theory explanation, solution prep and on-site deployment with tailored documentation.

Alternatively a remote session similar to service for individuals is also possible - if your studio is abroad and interested in my services.

Tools

A list of apps I can help you set up and standardize — a blend of tools for camera data ingest, conform, shot publish, VFX, and delivery, all within color-managed environments.

DaVinci Resolve
The go-to solution for camera data ingest, conform, shot publish, comp, and delivery, with very solid color management features.

Filmlight Baselight
A heavyweight tool usually found in larger studios, offering advanced ingest, conform, and delivery options with extensive color management capabilities.

Autodesk Flame
After years of relative hibernation, Flame has re-emerged as a powerhouse for data ingest, conform, shot publishing, and very solid color workflows.

After Effects
A versatile tool where the main challenge is balancing linear and video compositing workflows. I can help you configure it for predictable and consistent results.

Photoshop
Known for its 32-bit mode limitations, but with the right setup these can be managed effectively.

Premiere Pro
Premiere has very limited color management features. I generally don’t recommend it for ingest or publishing, but if your workflow requires it, I can help you find practical workarounds.

Foundry Nuke
A powerful compositing tool with strong built-in color management, ideal for high-end linear compositing workflows.

Blender
An artist-friendly 3D package where proper color management ensures your renders match across applications.

Other 3D Packages
I can also assist with Houdini, Maya, or Cinema 4D — just let me know which is part of your pipeline.

Unreal Engine
Real-time rendering is becoming increasingly VFX-friendly. I can help set up Unreal’s evolving color management features so that it integrates smoothly with your wider pipeline.

Media Players
Whether you use VLC, Media Player Classic, CineSync Play, or DJV, I’ll make sure your preview files display correctly and match what you see in your DCC tools. Just as important, we’ll account for the fact that your clients are reviewing on different players and operating systems, so they can see the same image you intended without confusion or mismatches.

Pricing

The cost of my services depends on the complexity of your pipeline and what you need to solve.
The solutions can be separated into three basic categories.
They range from less complex (and therefore less expensive) setups to more interconnected and thorough workflows designed for larger budgets and full imaging pipelines.

1. Color Management
2. Color Management & Camera Data Ingest
3. Color Management & Camera Data Ingest & Shot Publish

Every school, individual, and studio has different needs, so each solution is tailored after an initial brief.

Feel free to reach out via email, and we’ll figure out the best approach and timing for your working environment — along with a fair pricing structure.

Thanks!

martin@robotbaron.com

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