Color Matching Different Camera Models

So luckily in our case, we are using all PTZOptics cameras. But in some instances, our customers are trying to match PTZOptics cameras with other SONY and Panasonic PTZ cameras. In these cases, it’s best to use a third party application for color matching such as the NewTek Connect Pro which can color correct and provide a color grade as needed to match the camera up properly. Also, noted by Rudy in our chat room (which is displayed below) always use a good color calibrated monitor when trying to compare cameras for color quality.

Starting an Auto-White Balance

One Push White Balance

Getting the proper exposure from our cameras is the end goal. But as mentioned in our chat room, once again thanks to everyone in the chat for your comments, many live streaming professionals like to start with an “auto-white balance”. The auto white balance will automatically calibrate your camera’s white balance based on an object in your room. So it’s best to use a white or grey card with a solid background to calibrate from. Once you have run the auto-white balance, you can then go into your settings for exposure and start to adjust your camera image.

Matching Camera Exposure

Studio Camera Exposure with Wide Dynamic Range

When you are attempting to match multiple cameras exposure for a live shoot you should take notes from the settings of the first camera. Ideally, each camera can have the same exposure settings to ensure a match. But you may find that due to varying camera angles the exposures may need to be slightly adjusted to match perfectly. With live streaming, we cannot use post-production but we can apply a live color correction or color grade. In the camera exposure area, you can adjust wide dynamic range which can have a nice boosting effect on your live video. Try adding an equal amount of wide dynamic range to each camera shot you are color matching. As you can see we have our Wide Dynamic Range or “DRC” set to 2.

Image Contrast and Luminescence

 Final Tuning of Cameras

In our final tuning stages, we can alter contrast, luminance, sharpness, and gamma. We definitely want to use the same or very close setting on sharpness to make the transitions between each camera consistent with detail. Contrast and Luminance work together to create a sharp image with the proper amount of lighting. This part is really up to your personal and organization standards for the style your looking for but I like an image with sharp contrast and little darker rather than a little lighter. A perfect balance between luminance and contrast between all of the cameras in your production will put the finishing touch on your camera color matching. I hope this has been helpful! I have included the chat room messages from YouTube below for reference. There are some great tips from our professional audience below.