Name
A Multispectral Scanning and Post-Processing Workflow for Historical Film Colors
Track
Advancing Color Science: Multispectral Applications and Advanced Displays (Chaired by David Long)
Date & Time
Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 11:45 AM - 12:10 PM
Description

The vast range of historical film color processes necessitates an advanced workflow and digital representation for scanning and post-processing the multitude of dyes and pigments. Our previous research indicates that optical configurations limited to 3 or 4 spectral bands often miss important color information. Multispectral scanning and rendering provide a better starting point for adjusting the appearance of source materials. After more than a decade of research into the technology and aesthetics of historical film colors and scanning, including the development of a conceptual framework and complete workflow with hardware and software, we have integrated this research into an available solution. This presentation will offer insights into the concept of this technology and showcase recent real-world projects, highlighting the advantages – but also addressing the current challenges – of a multispectral workflow for the film technical community.

Barbara Flueckiger