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Dune: Prophecy Senior Finishing Artist Paul Carlin teaches "Feature & Episodic Conform on DaVinci Resolve" on February 15, 8 AM Pacific Time. This Masterclass is invite only. The only step that you can take now, if you’re truly interested, is to join our private waitlist.

Dune: Prophecy Senior Finishing Artist

Paul Carlin

teaches

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Feature & Episodic Conformusing DaVinci Resolve.

This masterclass dives deep into the art and science of conforming feature films and episodic television using DaVinci Resolve, the industry's leading post-production tool. Led by Paul Carlin, a Senior Feature Finishing Artist at Company 3 in Los Angeles with extensive experience in feature film and episodic conform, students will learn practical techniques, workflow innovations, and the integration of high-end post-production processes from editorial to final delivery.

Feb 15

8 AM Pacific Time.

Get Started Here.

Watch the 1-minute class teaser

Meet the

Marvelist

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Paul Carlin, a seasoned expert in the realm of post-production, brings over 30+ years of experience to our classroom. He is currently working as a Senior Feature Finishing Artist at Company 3 in Los Angeles, where he has been an integral part of the feature conform department for over 14 years. 

Paul has finished most of the Marvel Studios features beginning with Spider-Man: Far from Home, and including Black Widow, Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, Eternals, Spider-Man: No Way Home, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Thor: Love and Thunder, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, and The Marvels, in addition to more than 100 other feature films.

He just wrapped up the conform and finish of Dune: Prophecy which was colored by Stefan Sonnenfeld and Adam Nazarenko for HBO.  He will be starting his 12th feature film for Marvel Studios next. 

Filmography

Topic 1: Introduction to Featureand Episodic Conform

In this topic, students will gain an overview of the post-production workflow, focusing on the critical role of conform in feature and episodic projects.

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We begin by exploring image formats used in professional post-production, particularly focusing on EXR sequences. Students will learn how these formats support scene-referred workflows with linear light encoding, ensuring consistency and accuracy in color reproduction across various stages of the pipeline. 

 

Next, we delve into framing in post-production, including handling theatrical DCI projection standards, managing different aspect ratios, and employing different image scaling techniques. By analyzing real-world examples, students will understand how to adjust framing for different deliverables like Academy Scope and Flat, while preserving image quality through methods such as center extractions, safe areas, and non-square pixel aspect ratios.

 

This part of the course will also introduce students to calculating custom project settings for complex multi-camera workflows, accounting for multiple source resolutions and pixel aspect ratios while maintaining a 5% safety area.

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Following image formats and framing, students will gain a strong foundation in professional color management frameworks. This includes an understanding of Input, Working, and Output Color Spaces, and exploring the managed and unmanaged color options available in DaVinci Resolve. The discussion will also cover industry standards for delivery formats, best practices for maintaining clear and effective client communication and the importance of content security.

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Finally, the topic emphasizes understanding metadata and its importance in conform. Students will analyze key turnover materials like EDLs, AAFs, and reference media. They will learn about essential metadata elements, how to manage discrepancies that may arise during the conform process, and industry standards for metadata management. 

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Students will also become familiar with the critical hardware systems and infrastructure that power high-end post-production workflows, including discussions about Storage Area Networks (SANs), Linux operating systems, PostgreSQL database servers, and collaborative environments where multiple systems can access and work on the same project simultaneously.

Topic 2: Setting Up a Projectin DaVinci Resolve

In this topic, students will learn the project settings for feature and episodic content along with color space, resolution, and timeline setup. 

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Students will learn how to configure color space, timeline resolution, and image sizing within DaVinci Resolve, using the project "A Day in the Sun" as a practical example. We will explore how to set up for multiple deliverables, including theatrical screenings and streaming home video. This includes handling various aspect ratios like theatrical scope, flat, IMAX, and home video formats, as well as managing different output color spaces such as XYZ, HDR, and SDR.

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They will also explore the fundamentals of LUTs and the color pipeline, perform hands-on conforming tasks using EDLs and AAFs, and address practical challenges such as variable speed changes, resizes, and optical effects.

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To manage the high data rates associated with 4K EXR files, students will be introduced to optimized media, proxy workflows and caching. Through hands-on demonstrations, they'll understand the balance between achieving real-time playback and maintaining image fidelity.

 

This module also covers advanced tools in DaVinci Resolve, including settings for extracting reel names and timecode from any source media. Students will learn to establish organized project folders, and tailor settings for shared network environments like Storage Area Networks (SANs). 

 

Further, students will gain insights into technical issues such as edge ringing caused by the Sharper Filter method and ways to mitigate these effects using more advanced resize algorithms.

Topic 3: Conform and Fusion

In this topic, students will engage in a comprehensive conform and update process for a theatrical project, which includes integrating VFX updates and numerous Fusion compositions to finalize opticals and QC fixes. They will learn streamlined workflows for handling and color tracing multiple VFX updates concurrently, benefiting from tips and insights gathered over decades of professional experience.

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We will utilize EDLs and AAFs to address practical challenges such as variable speed changes, resizing, and the integration of optical effects. This segment dives deep into the complex yet vital process of managing and integrating VFX comps into the timeline. Students will explore how to import and set up reference QuickTime files, apply the correct LUTs, and ensure metadata accuracy, including reel names and timecodes, for seamless conform processes.

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Techniques for adjusting reference sizing, locating and replacing missing debayers, and cleaning up timelines will be demonstrated, equipping students to effectively manage incomplete turnovers from editorial departments. Hands-on experience with integrating AAFs into the main timeline will also be provided.

 

The class will then shift focus to Fusion compositing, where students will tackle complex tasks like split screens, stabilization, and title integration. Lessons will start with using Fusion to enhance conform workflows by aligning offline references with high-resolution media, employing point and planar trackers for stabilization, and crafting seamless split screens. Practical examples will guide students through the most common editorial requests.

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The topic also covers managing speed changes and minimizing motion artifacts, alongside discussing common QC fix requests and how to address them directly within Fusion on the timeline. This comprehensive approach ensures students are well-prepared for the nuances of professional post-production workflows.

Topic 4: Automation andScripting

This topic introduces students to the transformative capabilities of automation and scripting in DaVinci Resolve, aimed at boosting workflow efficiency and minimizing repetitive tasks. Through practical, hands-on examples, students will delve into the fundamentals of Lua and Python scripting, alongside using AI tools like ChatGPT to craft and troubleshoot scripts, even without prior coding experience. The exploration of the Resolve API will reveal how to automate tasks like applying LUTs, adjusting clip properties, and organizing media.

Students will start by familiarizing themselves with the scripting environment, learning how to use the console for testing commands, receiving immediate feedback, and debugging errors. Practical exercises will guide them in interacting with various Resolve objects, methods, and properties—ranging from accessing project timelines and extracting clip data to modifying settings.

 

By engaging with example scripts and adapting them, students will build confidence in creating personalized scripts that cater to their specific workflow requirements. This hands-on approach not only demystifies scripting but also empowers students to leverage automation for more efficient post-production processes.

Who shouldtake this Class?

Aspiring & Current Filmmakers

Film students or graduates keen on specializing in post-production, particularly in editing, color grading, and visual effects. Students who are looking to break into the world of high-end finishing. Conform is a gateway to becoming a colorist, if that is the student’s ultimate goal. 

Independent filmmakers who are handling much of their post-production in-house or are looking to expand their skill set beyond just directing or cinematography.  

Educators & Trainers

Teachers and trainers in film schools, online/offline workshops who want to incorporate DaVinci Resolve into their curriculum to better prepare their students for industry demands. 

Post-Production  Professionals

Video editors, colorists, and visual effects artists who are looking to either switch from other non-linear editing platforms to DaVinci Resolve or to enhance their skills with this software.

Professionals from broadcast and film industries who want to stay current with industry-standard tools and techniques. 

Freelancers & Small Business Owners

Individuals or small boutique companies in the media production sector aiming to streamline their workflow, reduce costs, and increase their service offerings by mastering an all-in-one post-production tool.

Moderators

Paul's Masterclass promises to be an unforgettable event, guided by TAC's beloved duo: Picture Shop Senior Colorist, Walter Volpatto and award-winning filmmaker Raymond Linares. Together, they will rewind the clock, infusing the session with a nostalgic, fun energy.

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Walter Volpatto
 

Walter Volpatto is a distinguished motion picture colorist renowned for his work on numerous acclaimed films. Currently a Senior Colorist at Picture Shop in Hollywood, California, he has collaborated with visionary directors and cinematographers, including Francis Ford Coppola on "Megalopolis," Christopher Nolan on "Dunkirk and Interstellar," Peter Farrelly on "Green Book," and Rian Johnson on "Star Wars: Episode VIII – The Last Jedi." 

 

Over the past two decades, he has amassed an extensive filmography, contributing to features such as "The Woman King," "Hustlers," "Red Notice," "Moonfall," "Rampage," "San Andreas," "Bad Moms," "Independence Day: Resurgence," and "The Master." 

 

His exceptional work has earned him multiple accolades, including the Hollywood Professional Association (HPA) Award for Outstanding Color Grading for "Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty" in 2023, and nominations for "Sweet Tooth" in 2021 and "Green Book" in 2019.

 

Walter is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and an Associate Member of the American Society of Cinematographers (ASC). He is also a consultant to the Academy’s Science and Technology Council, and an ACES pioneer. 

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Raymond Linares

Raymond is an award winning filmmaker and director of photography based in Florida. He's also a national champion pool player and a father to a 5yo little girl and a cat-dad to a 6yo female cat. Requests for autographs from his beard, which has developed a following of its own, are available by email or private message—As the beloved host of TAC since its inception, Raymond has been a cornerstone of the platform’s success.
 
He hosted our inaugural masterclass with Walter himself, setting the standard for excellence that continues to define TAC. His charisma, passion for storytelling, and commitment to education make him an integral part of the TAC community, and he remains a trusted guide for aspiring artists navigating their creative journeys.

Class Trailer

Watch the 3-Minute Class Trailer

First Round of Invites

The First-Round signup invites will be emailed to selected waitlist applicants on Monday, January 28, 8:00 AM Pacific Time. Keep an eye out on your inbox.

Waitlist Closed.

$149 $199 
Access

If invited for the first round, you’ll have 24 hours to secure your spot at an exclusive price of $149, instead of $199 applicable for the second round.

Waitlist Closed.

Second Round of Invites

The Second-Round signup invites will be emailed to selected waitlist applicants on Monday, February 10, 8:00 AM Pacific Time. Keep an eye out on your inbox.

Waitlist Open.

$199 $249 
Access

If invited for the second round, you’ll have 24 hours to secure your spot at an exclusive price of $199, instead of $249 applicable for the final round.

Waitlist Open.

Why is this class relevant to you?
I'm intrigued.
It directly addresses my current goals.

Invite-only.

This Masterclass is reserved exclusively for invite-holding participants and is not open for direct enrollment. If you’re truly interested, answer the questions at the end of this section and join our private waitlist. If selected, we’ll send you a personalized invite via email. Participants will be given access to the class recording and any linked assets. 

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These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern participation in the waitlist campaign ("Campaign") for Paul Carlin's Masterclass: Feature & Episodic Conform using DaVinci Resolve ("Masterclass"), organized by Cinemagus’s Classroom Private Limited ("Cinemagus"), operating under the brand name "TAC" ("Organizer"). By registering for the waitlist, participants acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms. Participants further agree to comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

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The Campaign is open to all individuals who provide valid and accurate personal information during registration. Employees, agents, or affiliates of the Organizer, as well as their immediate family members, are not eligible to participate. The Campaign grants waitlist participants the opportunity to be selected for exclusive early access to the Masterclass, which is scheduled for February 15, 2025, at 8 AM Pacific Time. Joining the waitlist does not guarantee selection or access to the Masterclass.

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