Film Emulation Masterclass

Discover the secrets of Film Emulation and elevate your filmmaking skills to new heights by mastering the art of adding the aesthetic of analog film to digitally captured images. Dive deep into the history of image capture on celluloid and learn to create breathtaking visuals that resonate emotionally with your audience. Unlock the full potential of digital images and craft your own iconic cinematic looks.

ABOUT THIS MASTERCLASS

This comprehensive course stands out for two key reasons: you'll learn not only how to emulate film but also why it matters. Gain an understanding of the psychological impact of color on viewers and uncover the foundational elements of cinematic looks using digital emulation technology.

In the practical component, you'll go beyond off-the-shelf LUTs and filters. You'll learn how to construct intricate image processing trees that replicate key elements of the film aesthetic, such as modulation transfer function, halation, diffusion, and more.

Starting with DaVinci Resolve's built-in tools, we’ll progress to industry-standard tools like Look Designer and Grainlab, and ultimately master the cutting-edge Film Emulation tool Filmlab AI, built with the latest AI-driven image analysis techniques. This certification is essential for gaining access to Filmlab AI, which is currently unavailable on the open market.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN

MODULE 1: How Film Works

Explore the mechanics of film, its structure, and the photochemical processes that transform light into highly detailed images. The focus will be on the ECN-2 process, a cornerstone of modern film capture.

• Film Image Structure: Understanding how images are formed on film.

• Film Image Characteristics: Key properties that define film aesthetics.

• ECN Film Negative Processing: The foundation of professional film workflows.

• KODAK 2383 Film Print: A deep dive into the iconic look of film prints.

MODULE 2: Elements and Building Blocks of Film Emulated Looks

Analyze the unique qualities that distinguish film-captured images from digital ones. This critical stage will train your eye to recognize the subtle details that define celluloid imagery.

• Image Base: Dynamic range, contrast ratio, and density.

• Image Body: Color palette and the DNA of a cinematic look.

• Image Finish: The importance of texture in the final image.

MODULE 3: Film Emulation Process and Techniques Using DaVinci Resolve Built-In Tools

Recreate the film aesthetic step-by-step using only the readily available tools in DaVinci Resolve Studio. Develop a foundational node tree to build upon in future modules.

• Color Management: Establishing a strong starting point.

• Contrast Control: Shaping tonal values.

• Film Negative Emulation: Mimicking the look of film negatives.

• Film Print Emulation: Reproducing the unique qualities of film prints.

• Film Grain: Adding texture for authenticity.

• Weaver & Flicker: Enhancing realism.

• MTF & Frequency Tools: Controlling modulation transfer function.

• Halation & Diffusion: Recreating signature film effects.

MODULE 4: Expanding Looks Using Look Designer and Grainlab

Take your skills beyond the limitations of built-in tools with Look Designer and Grainlab. Access a library of film stocks and explore the industry’s first subtractive emulation to unlock advanced creativity.

• The True Subtractive Color: Achieving unparalleled color reproduction.

• Film Negative Library: A diverse range of film stocks at your fingertips.

• Film Print Library: Options for cinematic finishing.

• Contrast and Crunch: Advanced tonal control.

• PFE Legalization: Ensuring professional-grade output.

• Stress Testing: Evaluating look robustness.

• EL Zones: Mastering exposure latitude.

• Grainlab: Creating authentic film textures.

MODULE 5: Film Emulation Using Filmlab AI

Crown your learning journey with Filmlab AI, the state-of-the-art film emulation tool built on advanced AI image processing technology.

• JPLog2 and IONodes: Enhanced log workflows.

• ODT Tonal Mapping: Optimizing tonal reproduction.

• Lens Emulation: Mimicking cinematic lenses.

• MTF & Diffusion Effects: Precision tools for detail and ambiance.

• Advanced Texture: Pushing visual creativity.

• PrintLab: Finalizing your cinematic look.

• HaloLab: Perfecting halation for added realism.

PROJECT-BASED LEARNING

Participants will create three stylistically distinct film emulation looks. By the end of the course, you’ll take home full node tree setups and receive a 30-day FilmLab AI license for further experimentation.

SPECIAL OFFER

All participants will receive an exclusive $150 discount towards further training or tools.

REQUIREMENTS

This is an in-person class held at AbelCine Training Facilities in New York and Los Angeles. Participants must bring their own laptops to follow along with the training.

Minimum Hardware Requirements:

• macOS: MacBook Pro (Intel or M Series), macOS 13+. MacBook Air is supported but not recommended.
• Windows: Windows 10 or 11, with an NVIDIA GPU (Intel and AMD GPUs are supported but not recommended).
• Screen Resolution: Minimum of 1920 x 1080.

All attendees will receive the necessary software and training materials. Participants are eligible for a 50% discount on Colourlab AI, valued up to $495. Access to an online version of the course will be provided upon completion.