Arri-news 2011

As of ALEXA Software Update Packet (SUP) 4.0, ALEXA cameras can apply custom ‘looks’ to manipulate the image output for different applications and individual creative preferences. ARRI Look Files are XML files that can be created with a MAC OS X application and then loaded into an ALEXA camera in order to modify the look of images coming out of that camera. They enable DPs to define various looks for a production and view images on set that are as close to their final intentions as possible. A look can be previewed on monitors or recorded into the image; either way all the associated metadata travel embedded in the media into postproduction. Look files are different from look-up tables (LUTs), which change one color space to another, for example from Log C to video. In essence, ARRI Look Files are a purely creative tool and whether they are created by the colorist or by the DP, they encourage greater and earlier interaction between production and post. The ARRI Look Creator is a MAC OS X application that can create look files for ALEXA through an easy-to-use interface based on film lab thinking, with printer light settings. This free-of-charge program is currently under beta testing; it can be downloaded at ARRI’s website, along with a quick guide. ARRI Look Files can also be created using Silverstack SET from Pomfort, with other developers planning to release their own applications in the near future. Each look file is based on a Log C DPX picture grab taken from an ALEXA and imported to the camera; creating looks based on ARRIRAW will be possible in a future software upgrade. ARRI LOOK FILES AND LOOK CREATOR “This is a completely new way of handling looks.” Colorist Florian “Utsi” Martin Download the free ARRI Look Creator: www.arri.com/downloads/alexa 120 FPS ARRI LOOK Files 6 ARRI NEWS