Why Raw Files Look Colorless and Low-Contrast
The Importance of Proper Processing
Clients are often surprised when they first see draft footage or unprocessed photographs that appear flat, muted, and low in contrast. Instead of vibrant colors and cinematic tones, they see something that feels unfinished. And that’s exactly what raw files are meant to be — the foundation of a much more refined final result.
What Are Raw Files?
Both video and photo raw formats — such as LOG profiles for video and RAW for photography — are designed to preserve the maximum amount of image information. They intentionally look desaturated, soft, and low-contrast because nothing has been added yet. Think of them as a painter’s sketch: all the essential structure is there, but the beauty appears only after the artist begins to work with color and detail.
Why Do Professionals Use Log and RAW?
Imagine taking a photo on your phone at sunset. The highlights may blow out, or the shadows may turn muddy. A log profile, however, captures both bright skies and deep shadows without losing detail. RAW photo files work the same way — they hold every nuance of color and luminance, like a digital negative that can later be shaped into its final form.
These formats give us immense creative freedom during color grading and retouching. By starting with the cleanest, most flexible version of the image, we ensure that the final photos and videos have depth, richness, and timeless quality.
Why Drafts Look Flat
When you see videos in LOG or RAW photos before processing, they will naturally appear dull, grayish, or low in contrast. This is completely normal — and expected. These unprocessed files are not the final artwork but the raw material that allows us to sculpt color and mood exactly as intended.
Once color grading, contrast shaping, and skin tone refinement are applied, the transformation is dramatic. The final result reflects the cinematic richness you expect.
Viewing Raw Drafts
For clients who want to view drafts correctly, we provide guidance on how to preview videos shot in LOG or how to view RAW photos with proper color profiles. A raw file becomes much more understandable once a LUT or color profile is applied.
Need All Files Converted to Normal Color?
If you ever need all your raw materials converted into standard color profiles for easier viewing, we can provide this service. Pricing depends on the volume and starts at $100.
This additional processing ensures the files look natural and properly corrected before the final creative grading stage.