Best Post-Production & Colour Grading Houses in London.
Looking for a post production house in London? Well, you’ve come to the right place.
Welcome to our blog on London’s best post production, vfx and colour grading companies.
This guide is for anyone, whether you’re looking to hire a team to help you with post production or if you are a filmmaker aiming to elevate your work.
As a video production & video editing company in London we are well versed at who to trust and to avoid in the post-production world. Keep reading and let us know what you think.
What’s In This Blog?
1. What Is Video Post-Production?
2. What is Visual Effects?
3. What Is Colour Grading?
4. Top VFX, Colour Grading, & Post-Production Houses in London
5. Here Now
6. Wash
7. The Look
8. Priory Post Production London
9. Colour Grading London
10. Union
11. Envy
12. Gravity House
13. Tips For Picking The Perfect Post Production Partner
14. Conclusion
Before we explore the best VFX and post production companies in London let’s explore some of the most commonly asked questions.
What Is Post-Production?
It's the stage where all elements of filmmaking come together to form a coherent, engaging film.
The process includes:
Video Editing
Colour Grading
Sound Mixing & Design
Visual Effects
Each element crucial to breathe life into the final product.
What is VFX?
VFX is a big old world but here is the crack in the most simple processes:
1. Digital Compositing: Merging different images or videos to create one final scene. It's like adding a dragon to a real-world video.
2. CGI: Creating digital 3D animations and models. Think of digitally made characters or objects in movies.
3. Rotoscoping: Cutting out a subject from its background in a video. Useful for changing the background or adding special effects around a character.
4. Motion Tracking: Making sure digital effects follow the camera's movement in the original video. It's to ensure CGI looks natural in a moving scene.
5. Particle & Fluid Simulation: Making digital versions of natural things like fire, smoke, or water. It's about recreating real-life movements on screen.
6. Matte Painting: Creating digital backgrounds or landscapes. It's a way to show places that are hard or costly to film in real life.
What is Colour Grading?
Ever wondered what actually goes into colour grading? Well, here’s a breakdown of some of the key processes:
1. Correction: Adjusting video to look natural. This means fixing lighting mistakes, balancing shots, and ensuring consistent colors.
2. Look Development: Giving a video its "mood" or "feel" with colors. For example, a warm, golden look for a romantic scene or a blue, cold look for a sad or tense scene.
3. Match Shots: Making sure colors are consistent across different shots. If two scenes are supposed to happen at the same time of day, they should look similar in color.
4. Highlight & Shadow: Adjusting the brightest and darkest parts of a video. This can emphasize certain parts of a scene or create depth.
5. Saturation: Controlling how vibrant or muted colors appear. This can be used to make a scene feel lively or dull.
6. Skin Tones: Ensuring that people's skin looks natural. Regardless of the overall color mood, skin tones are often kept true to life.
Why London?
Now, why are we focusing on London, you may ask?
Well, London has become one of the world’s hot beds for the visual arts and for post production this is no different.
With some of the worlds biggest film studios being based here they need a place to turn to and as good as the rest of the UK are… It’s London that takes the crown.
Top Post Production Houses in London
So, we’ve got the basics covered. It’s time to explore our list of the very best post production and colour grading companies in London.
We’ve ranked these companies on their experience, the quality of their work, price point & much more. So, here’s the list…
1) Here Now Films
Yep, that’s us!
You may think it’s cheeky putting ourselves at the front of this list but as one of the UK’s leading video production agencies we are grounded in great post production and colour grading.
We’re proud to be great at documentary and commercials and don’t even try to claim we’re in the leagues of cinema.
That being said, we’ve never been asked. “cough, cough…” Spielberg, if your reading this… we got you buddy.
Anyway, that’s enough chat. We think our portfolio speaks for itself!
FatFace
Over the last two years we’ve delivered production and post production for FatFace’s big Spring commercials.
We deliver all post production, sound design and colour grading in-house delivering hundreds of assets from single productions.
In our second year of working with them it’s safe to say they’re pleased with the work we’ve done so far.
Flite Board
Next on the list is our recent work with Flite, the world leaders in electric hydrofoil technology.
We travelled to the slopes of the Alps, the dunes of Pilatt and the Isles of Scilly. All editing, colour grading and sound design was done in-house.
The Tate
The Tate is one of London’s most loved brands.
When we were asked to edit two micro documentaries together about Barbara Hepworth we knew there was only one option.
We brought together hours of archival film and imagry along with hours of footage we captured ourselves.
On top of that we mixed old recordings with modern interview to create seemless storytelling.
Interested in working with a post production house in London? We’d love to chat!
From documentary series to TVC commercials we work as a post production partner to some of the UKs best loved brands and biggest agencies.
2) Wash
Located in Farringdon, Wash is a boutique post-production facility specializing in color grading and VFX. Serving commercials, music promos, TV, and feature films, Wash strives to offer clients superior quality, creativity, and expertise in a personalized and intimate environment.
Equipped with cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art equipment, Wash prides itself on its latest grading monitoring system and support for HDR mastering in three suites. Additionally, with four grading suites, two finishing suites, and a skilled VFX team, Wash provides comprehensive services. Private meeting rooms and breakout areas are available for client use.
Wash's agility and personalized approach ensure a bespoke experience with experienced operators in a stylish environment. Join Wash and experience exceptional post-production with a personal touch.
3) The Look
The Look is renowned for delivering world-class post-production experiences to industry giants like Netflix, Apple, Sky, and Amazon Studios. Our state-of-the-art facilities embrace 4K 16-bit Dolby Vision HDR, setting the stage for unparalleled visual quality.
With seamless integration of conform, grade, online, and playouts within a unified 4K architecture, The Look stands out as a beacon of innovation, providing flexible workflows that exceed expectations.
Our cinema grading theatre showcases the stunning Sony X300 4K monitor and immersive 4K HDR laser projection on a 4m screen. All our suites feature the same top-of-the-line Sony X300 4K monitors, ensuring precise visual representation. High-end domestic screens facilitate client reviews.
Effortless collaboration is facilitated by our internal video matrix, enabling smooth distribution of video and audio throughout the building, ensuring productivity and minimal disruptions.
At The Look, client comfort is paramount. We provide super-fast 1GB Wi-Fi, a well-stocked fridge with a variety of beverages, and a selection of teas from around the world. Our freshly ground coffee from Profitec ensures a rejuvenating experience.
4) Priory Post: Production London
Priory Post, located in a stunning gothic chapel, is the world's top-reviewed boutique color grading and VFX studio. Led by senior freelance DaVinci Resolve colorist Gabriel Xavier, along with his exclusive team of advanced VFX artists and junior colorists, we offer exceptional services from our luxury custom-built Central London suite, both on-site and remotely worldwide.
With an impressive client portfolio consisting of renowned brands, agencies, and record labels, Priory Post's innovative creativity, technical excellence, and unbeatable reliability rival those of any Soho post-house. We take pride in delivering outstanding results across various mediums, including TV commercials, brand content, music videos, and feature films.
As a true boutique, Priory Post combines a personal approach with the affordability and flexibility of a freelancer. Attended in-person color grading sessions start at just £70/hour, while remote sessions are available from £50/hour. This unique blend of quality and cost-effectiveness ensures that clients receive exceptional value for their projects.
Experience the Priory Post difference—where your vision is meticulously brought to life by industry-leading professionals. Contact us now to explore how we can elevate your projects to new heights.
5) Colour Grading London
Colour Grading London is an independent studio in North West London, specializing in Hollywood-quality color grading for feature films, shorts, documentaries, and videos. Their passion and expertise bring creative visions to life with breathtaking color.
With a recent feature film project premiering at the prestigious Berlinale film festival and winning the Teddy Award for Best Feature Film, Colour Grading London proves their commitment to excellence and outstanding results.
Whether it's a small indie film, art house production, or international blockbuster, Colour Grading London collaborates closely with clients to deliver spectacular color. They offer competitive rates and flexible project fees for color grading and correction.
Explore their work and elevate your project with Colour Grading London's Hollywood-quality color expertise.
5) Union VFX
Union, with headquarters in Soho, London, and a sister studio in Montréal, Quebec, is renowned for its originality, innovation, and collaborative approach. Their experienced team of supervisors, producers, and artists passionately bring filmmaking and storytelling to life with imaginative solutions and stunning results.
Trusted by renowned filmmakers worldwide, Union serves as a reliable technical partner and creative ally. Specializing in VFX design, CG animation, compositing, and more, they excel in delivering exceptional visual effects. From prestigious film projects like Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri to notable episodic works such as Moon Knight and The Crown, Union's versatility shines through.
Union's remarkable achievements include collaborating with Danny Boyle's creative team to deliver short films for the London 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony. As members of Access: VFX, they actively promote diversity and inclusion in the industry.
With TPN auditing and full remote capabilities, Union ensures seamless operations in any working environment.
Union: Where creativity meets collaboration, delivering exceptional VFX.
6) Envy
Since 2006, ENVY has established itself as a renowned post production facility, delivering exceptional results across a wide range of projects. Their collaborative approach keeps client needs at the forefront, fostering strong relationships that have contributed to ENVY's industry-leading reputation. From documentaries to multi-episodic series, ENVY's portfolio continues to grow, attracting clients worldwide.
ENVY takes pride in their numerous high-profile awards, including six Best Post Production awards from the Broadcast Awards, making them the most decorated post firm in its history. The creative staff at ENVY has also received prestigious recognition with awards from RTS, BAFTA, The Grierson Awards, and Broadcast Awards.
As a full-service, end-to-end post production facility, ENVY boasts unparalleled technical capabilities, allowing for flexible and customized workflows to meet any requirement. Their facilities are designed to inspire creativity while offering comfort and exceptional customer service. ENVY welcomes projects of all sizes, ensuring that every client feels valued and at home.
ENVY's commitment to excellence, technical expertise, and client-centric focus continue to redefine the standards of post production, cementing their position as an industry leader.
7) Gravity House
Gravity House, part of Gravity Media, is a leading destination for post production spanning six floors. This state-of-the-art facility offers spacious, high-spec editing and online multi-use suites. With 40 versatile rooms, Gravity House accommodates a wide range of productions, including feature films and TV, catering to offline editing, VFX, production offices, meetings, and screenings.
The Gravity House team provides remote editing solutions, tech support, connectivity, and media storage for on-site or off-site projects. Beyond its technical capabilities, Gravity House fosters a sense of community, with a sociable bar and breakout spaces on different floors, bringing together production and post production professionals.
Additionally, Gravity House features a private screening room, a roof terrace, and a series of engaging events, all located in the vibrant heart of Soho.
As part of Gravity Media, renowned for its global production capabilities, Gravity House offers state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, spearheaded by a team of experienced technical, engineering, and creative experts.
Discover the epitome of post production excellence at Gravity House, where creativity meets cutting-edge technology.
How To Pick The Perfect Post Production Parter
Alright folks, so you're ready to take your project to the next level and need the perfect post-production partner in crime? Well, you've come to the right place! Here's the lowdown on what you should be looking for:
Portfolio Perfection: Dive headfirst into their portfolio. Does their work give you goosebumps? Have they rocked projects similar to yours? A stellar portfolio is a sneak-peek into what they're capable of, so make sure it impresses!
Client Chatter: Got your detective hat on? It's time to hunt down those client reviews. Real-life experiences with the house can spill the beans on their professionalism, their respect for deadlines, and if they play well with others. Word-of-mouth is powerful - use it!
Tech Titans: We're in a digital world, folks! Your post-production house needs to be fluent in the latest software and tech wizardry. Not only does this guarantee top-notch work, but it also shows they're up-to-date with the ever-evolving industry standards.
Communication Champions: Good communication is key! Your post-production house should be able to vibe with your vision and explain their strategies clearly. They should be ready to take your feedback and loop you in every step of the way. After all, it's your baby they're nurturing.
Budget Balance: High quality doesn't always mean emptying your pockets. Make sure their services don't break your bank, but remember - don't compromise on quality. The sweet spot is top-tier service at a competitive price.
Project-Specific Pros: Your project is unique, and so are your requirements. Need a heavy dose of VFX? A very specific colour grading style? Find a house that specializes in exactly what you need - it'll make all the difference.
Creativity Connoisseurs: Sure, technical skills are crucial. But creativity? That's the secret ingredient. The ability to think outside the box can catapult your project from 'good' to 'unforgettable'.
Remember, folks - you're not just hunting for a service provider; you're looking for a partner in your creative journey. By keeping these tips in your arsenal, you're all set to find a post-production house that will blast your project out of the park! Happy hunting!
Conclusion
As we wrap up this thrilling journey through the vibrant world of post-production, it's clear that the right house can make a world of difference to your project. Remember, it's not just about adding flashy VFX or mood-altering colour grading; it's about elevating your story, enhancing its emotional depth, and ultimately, captivating your audience.
London's post-production scene is a dynamic tapestry of talent, creativity, and technology. From startups pushing boundaries with innovative solutions, to industry heavyweights renowned for their craftsmanship, there's an array of options for you to explore. The key is to find that perfect partner who resonates with your vision, understands your unique requirements, and has the right tools to bring your vision to life.
Whether you're a filmmaker, a brand, or an enthusiast, choosing the right post-production, VFX, and colour grading house in London can catapult your work from being 'pretty good' to 'absolutely unforgettable'. So, trust in your vision, take these insights, and step boldly into the exciting world of post-production.
And there you have it! Here's to creating cinematic magic and captivating stories. Keep the cameras rolling, keep the ideas flowing, and most importantly, keep dreaming in technicolor!
Remember, knowledge shared is knowledge doubled, so don't forget to pass on this guide to your fellow filmmakers. Stay tuned to our blog for more insights and industry secrets. Lights, camera, action!
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