Film Colorist Career Profile, Salary & Job Outlook
What does a Colorist do?
A film colorist designs and edits the color palette of a film. The colorist works with the Director and Director of Photography to establish a color scheme that fits the film’s narrative, mood, and overall style. During the final stages of post-production, colorists enter the process after the film is edited and near its final form to color correct and color grade footage.
How much does a Colorist make?
According to Ziprecruiter, Colorists make a national average of 23.54 an hour (as of June 2023). Entry-level film colorists make around $28,500 annually, with senior-level film colorists making $55,000 a year. But, of course, this wide range also depends on skill, seniority, company/studio, production budget, and location.
What impact does this career have towards the film industry?
Colorists are responsible for stylizing a film. During shoots, light can be inconsistent and affect the continuity of a movie. Colorists also correct flaws that can alter the film’s storytelling. They are technicians and artists.
What is the job outlook for this career?
Analysts predict that film revenue will grow to $392.34 billion by 2025. In addition, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opportunities in the design field (including Colorists) are expected to increase at a rate of 3% percent this decade.
How to kick-off your career:
- Study color theory.
- Intern or shadow at a post-production studio.
- Explore the NYU x Rolling Stone x IndieWire Film + TV Industry Essentials online course.
- Download Yellowbrick’s Ultimate Film Career Guide.
Learn from:
Judd Apatow, Film & TV Industry Essentials contributor,
Film director/producer/screenwriter/ comedian
Related Careers:
Film Director | Location Manager | Production Assistant Gaffer | Key Grip | Camera Operator | Cinematographer | Props Master | Script Supervisor | Boom Operator | Stunt Coordinator | Leading Actor/Actress | Production Designer | First Assistant Director | Second Assistant Director | Director of Photography | Line Producer | Assistant Props Master
