Color Space Conversion with 3-D LUT for Laser Film Recorder

A new method of color space conversion for the laser film recorder is proposed. The input image file (10 bits or more, RGB) is converted by a new three-dimensional look up table (3-D lut), then fed to the film recorder as data of 10 bit RGB. By using this conversion method, the image on print films are colorimetrically improved and matched to the image on the CRT monitor. The paper reviews the color transformation by the conventional film recording, that uses only a one-dimensional lut, then, the 3-D lut is built based on a gamut mapping algorithm to compensate for the difference of the color gamut between the CRT monitors and the print films employing a new soft clipping method. Also, three gamut compression (clipping) methods are evaluated. The calculation on the 3-D lut is based on CIE LAB color coordinates and the evaluation was performed by several observers from the post-production department. The paper additionally discusses a guideline for quality control in color management in film laboratories. This new system was successfully applied to actual production of feature animation footages.

Published

2001-11

Content type

Original Research

DOI

10.5594/M00975

ISBN

978-1-61482-935-5