In the previous article, we covered how to use software to correct image colors when you have the official red filter installed (Underwater Video Color Restoration 1.0 — LUT Extension Pack). However, a red filter does help compensate for some of the lost reds ahead of time. What if you happen to dive without one? What can you do in post to fix the colors?
How Do You Color-Correct Footage Shot Without a Filter?
This example was shot without a GoPro official red filter. The focus is on correcting underwater colors, with the core idea being: whatever color is missing underwater, add it back in. The software used is After Effects.
- Create an Adjustment Layer, apply Photo Filter, and change the Filter to Magenta. The concept is to simulate a red filter directly in post-production.
- Apply Selective Color, change the Color to Cyans, and boost Magenta to restore the missing reds.
- Apply Color Balance. The main adjustment is in the shadows — increase Red Balance and reduce Green and Blue Balance. For midtones and highlights, refer directly to the on-screen colors and correct accordingly.
- Apply Lumetri Color and experiment with the Look setting to define the overall color tone — similar to choosing which type of film stock you want the footage to look like.
- You can also add red back in using the Hue/Saturation Curve.
- Watch the before-and-after color grading comparison.
The GoPro's compact form factor makes it a perfect companion for divers looking to document their dives, and it's equally at home in all kinds of extreme sports. If you're interested in GoPro or are already a GoPro enthusiast, feel free to flip through One Pole for the World — GoPro Action Photography at your local bookstore and discover even more creative ways to use your GoPro! I also regularly share GoPro photos and videos on the One Pole for the World Facebook fan page — check it out to see more of my GoPro work.
