Apple Final Cut Pro 6 - Manual (Page 1386)

Chapter 27 Color Correction 601
III
The Match Color indicator fills with this color to let you know it’s been selected, and
either the Whites, Mids, or Blacks Auto-Balance eyedropper is highlighted to let you
know which Auto-Balance eyedropper you should use in the next step.
When selecting a match color, the level of the color you select affects how well the
match works. When matching flesh tones, choosing a highlight generally gives the best
results, but in certain circumstances you may achieve better results by choosing a
midtone or shadow.
Note: When selecting a highlight, make sure that the highlight you select is not
overexposed (for example, a reflection or surface with excessive shine), but rather
represents the lightest area of the actor’s face that accurately represents the skin tone.
6 Now, in the Color Corrector 3-way tab in the Viewer, click the highlighted Whites
Auto-Balance eyedropper.
The Auto-Balance eyedropper that is highlighted depends on what you selected as your
match color. If you selected a highlight, as in this example, the Whites Auto-Balance
eyedropper is highlighted, letting you know that it’s the appropriate eyedropper tool to
use. If you selected a shadow, however, the Blacks Auto-Balance eyedropper is highlighted.
Note: In general, it’s always a good idea to start by picking a match color that will
highlight either the Whites or Blacks Auto-Balance eyedropper, and make this adjustment
first. Adjust the midtones afterward, if it’s necessary to achieve the look you want.
Highlighted eyedropper
Match Color indicator
Click the Whites
Auto-Balance eyedropper.