What is the purpose of brand-approved targets during color grading?

• A. To randomize color across shots.
• B. To hide colors from brand team.
• C. To reduce file size.
• D. To ensure the colors align with brand guidelines.

Answer: (D)

The main idea is using reference targets to keep colors consistent with brand guidelines. Brand-approved targets provide a standard set of color and brightness values that the grading team uses to calibrate monitors and verify that the image matches the brand’s defined look. By comparing the graded image to these targets, you can adjust hue, saturation, and luminance so that key brand elements—like product colors, skin tones, and logos—stay within approved ranges across all shots.

These targets also act as a clear communication tool with the brand team, giving an objective measure of whether a shot meets the brand’s color identity. If a sequence drifts toward an unintended look, the targets make the deviation obvious and easiest to correct, promoting visual consistency throughout the entire project.

They aren’t meant to randomize colors, hide colors from the brand team, or reduce file size. The purpose is alignment with brand guidelines, ensuring a cohesive and on-brand presentation from first shot to last.