Color grading is another area where tools of the past are being replaced.

Cameras today record color settings as part of the data stream, something FCP X immediately detects and can correct. The Balance Color setting is a good place to begin, as everything starts with proper white balance. Why not allow the computer handle your shooting errors?

Apple has innovated FCP X's new color features with a tool that I never thought I would see: a simple, efficient way match the color and contrast between multiple clips--all handled mathematically. The Match Color setting is not perfect, but I have seen many editors try and fail at this task without proper monitoring.

Not surprisingly, the color correction interface has changed dramatically. Gone is the node-based look of the previous tools. The new Color Board is simple and straightforward, allowing users to correct color, exposure, and saturation. Unfortunately there is no numeric entry accompanying the slider bar, so you must use the Match Color feature to maintain color consistency across multiple clips.