At BIRTV 2024, Kevin Shaw, President of the Colorist Society, chaired a panel hosted by the Chinese Society of Cinematographers (CNSC) to discuss the use of High Dynamic Range (HDR) today. Here he shares is thoughts:

HDR has been debated since its launch in 2016, but as it evolves, we are still discovering the part it will play in tomorrow’s visual universe.

Here are five themes that arose in the recent panel discussion about how HDR is shaping filmmaking in 2024:

Removing limitations

HDR's ability to remove the limitations of Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) filmmaking is giving creators more range – literally. HDR allows cinematographers an easier way to deal with sky and other naturally high contrast situations, and to access a broader spectrum of colors which enhances the overall depth and realism of their visuals. HDR is about much more than just brighter images – it’s about creating a more immersive experience for viewers. By harnessing the new HDR display technologies, filmmakers can involve audiences in a much more emotional way.

Pursuing aesthetic goals

HDR fundamentally shifts the focus from overcoming technical challenges to pursuing more aesthetic goals. With HDR, cinematographers are empowered to explore creative visions using modern lighting and the improvements in color management from recent years. This evolution means that filmmakers can capture stunning narratives that resonate on a deeper emotional level. The increased dynamic range translates into more nuanced storytelling, allowing subtle details to shine through in both shadows and highlights.

Enhanced visibility

HDR not only enhances the viewing experience for audiences, but also equips cinematographers with tools to see more of what they’re capturing. The improved visibility of image capture means that professionals can finetune their shots in real time, ultimately leading to a more polished final product. This advancement creates an exciting opportunity for cinematographers to push the boundaries of their craft, especially when collaborating with the finishing colorist early in production.

More affordable, more ergonomic

Although HDR displays were once deemed prohibitively expensive, the BIRTV 2024 panel celebrated the newer, increasingly affordable and ergonomic solutions. This opens the door for a broader market, enabling emerging filmmakers and smaller production companies to access the same tools as major studios. With HDR, high-quality production is no longer the exclusive domain of the elite, allowing for a more diverse range of voices and stories to be told with unprecedented quality.

Heightened inspiration

As the discussion drew to a close, it became clear that HDR is more than just a technological advancement; it's an inspiring tool that rekindles great passion within the filmmaking community. Many panelists expressed how hard it is to revert to SDR after experiencing the freedom and vibrancy that HDR provides. The emotive power of HDR allows filmmakers to express their visions with less labor and more creativity, leading to a more enjoyable and fulfilling production process.

The BIRTV 2024 panel was a call for filmmakers everywhere to embrace HDR. By removing limitations; enhancing color management; and making this technology more accessible; HDR empowers cinematographers to elevate their art. As we move forward, HDR will undoubtedly play a crucial role in defining the future of visual storytelling – making this an exciting time to be a part of the cinematic world.

By Kevin Shaw, CSI

Kevin is President and Founder of Colorist Society, Co-Founder of the International Colorist Academy, and a globally renowned expert on color grading and related technology.