Introduction
Preflight Workflow
Digitization is split into preflight (setting up), production (capturing material in that set up), Post-Production, and Processing. These correspond to the Calibrate, Capture, Crop, and Export tabs in DT Nexus.
In a camera-based digitization system the preflight process is:
Framing & Focus: Setting the capture area to a given size or PPI by moving the camera, and ensuring the camera is focused properly at that distance.
Exposure (rough): Using a color target, setting shutter speed, aperture, iso, and light power so that target values are lower than their aim values.
White Balance (rough): Using a color target, white balance the image prior to targeting.
Even Fielding: Using a white or gray card or paper to eliminate illumination non-uniformity.
White Balance (fine): Using a color target, precisely white balance the image prior to targeting.
Exposure (fine): Using a color target, setting shutter speed, aperture, iso, and light power so that target values are precisely the same as their aim values.
Color Profile: Create an in-situ ICC profile based on the setup of the camera as it is now, or use an existing profile (either an in-situ profile or one provided by the manufacturer)
The blue steps are done by the user using Capture One’s tools (Live View, Camera Controls, and White Balance).
The green steps are automated by the current version of DT Nexus and its “Create Color Profile” feature. We expect to further automate the preflight process in future versions of DT Nexus.
Calibrate Tab
The Calibrate tab in DT Nexus is crucial for preparing and calibrating your system prior to production. It ensures that all elements are correctly set up for optimal performance. This tab contains two key tools:
- Color Profiles: This tool features a user-friendly wizard for creating custom ICC profiles (and Fusion profiles if you are using DT Stellar lights). It helps ensure accurate and consistent color representation across your digitization process.
- Light Control: This tool provides control over DT Stellar lights, allowing you to adjust lighting conditions to meet your specific requirements and achieve the best results.
Utilizing these tools in the Preflight tab helps establish a well-calibrated system, setting the stage for a successful production workflow.