There are many tools to learn the art and craft of color correction and enhancement. Some are free on the Internet, others come in books, DVDs and in the form of online tutorials and there are even multi-day classes available.

Though their names may differ, here is a sampling of the color tools found in most current editing software Effects bin or folder.

• Auto Color Drop this filter on your poorly white balanced shot and you'll get a greatly improved image. Although not perfect, it's a great starting point to correct your white balance woes.
• Hue, Saturation & Luma Adjusting This filter alters the grade (or angle), intensity and brightness of color, by using a series of sliding bars for fine tune fixes.
• Three-Way Color Correction This is the granddaddy of color correction and alteration. There are numerous tutorials produced to aid in the use of this one tool. It allows precise control over hue, saturation and brightness in highlights, midtones and shadows.
• Waveform Monitor A digital oscilloscope (device that measures and displays wave forms and voltage) that displays the luminance information of video.
• Vectorscope A digital oscilloscope that graphically displays the Chroma, or color, portion of video.

These are just a few of the filters and tools that will not only let you fix color mistakes you made while shooting but can let you enhance the color of your moving image to further your storyline. With these powerful tools, your knowledge and imagination are the only limits to the limitless color possibilities.

Morgan Paar is a nomadic producer, shooter and editor currently making documentaries in South America.