We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Will Gehring a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Will, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?
I learned color grading online from experts like Darren Mostyn and Walter Volpatto, and gained hands-on experience with short films and music videos. This led to confidence in handling a variety of projects, from commercials to features.
Looking back, diving in sooner and embracing mistakes would have sped up my learning. Key skills included a keen eye for color, a solid grasp of grading techniques, and adaptability to different project requirements.
The main obstacle was my own hesitation and fear of failure. Overcoming this, recognizing mistakes as learning opportunities, and staying updated on industry trends were crucial. In hindsight, a more fearless approach would have accelerated my journey. I am very happy with where I am today and I hope to grow so much more in the coming years.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My name is Will, and I’m a post-production colorist in the film industry. I work on everything from commercials and documentaries to narrative films, series, and music videos.
I have a lot of experience working with directors and DPs to craft the perfect final look for all kinds of genres, whether it’s a lighthearted comedy or a heartwrenching drama. I always like to collaborate closely with the rest of the production and post team to ensure the perfect look for the project is achieved and everything runs smoothly across the entire process.
I view every new project as a new puzzle of challenges to overcome. My favorite shots are ones I am able to transform and give the director and DP a new perspective they had never considered before. I started working on set, so I am very aware that set life is fast moving and mistakes happen. As such, I am very adept at fixing any technical issues that are needed, all while delivering fast and high-quality results.
When I’m not color grading, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family and dog, Tofu. Be sure to check out my website for plenty of examples of my work and all my contact info. I can’t wait to work with you!
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
At the core of my creative journey is a dedication to delivering unparalleled results in color grading. I’m on a mission to provide clients with a transformative and visually compelling experience. Through meticulous color grading, I aim to enhance the emotional impact and storytelling elements of each project. The goal is not just technical proficiency but an artful approach that elevates the visual narrative. By marrying technical expertise in color grading with a commitment to client satisfaction, I strive to create a seamless and memorable creative journey for every project.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
Maintaining a strong connection with clients and building brand loyalty is a multifaceted process for me. Firstly, my keen eye for color grading serves as a cornerstone of our collaboration. I ensure that every project reflects not only technical excellence but also a nuanced understanding of the emotional nuances that color can convey.
In addition to delivering top-notch results, I stay committed to incorporating the latest industry practices. This involves continuous learning and staying abreast of technological advancements in color grading, ensuring that clients benefit from cutting-edge techniques and trends.
However, beyond the technical aspects, I prioritize fostering personal relationships. I believe that open communication and understanding the client’s vision are integral to a successful collaboration. Regular updates, transparent discussions about the creative process, and incorporating client feedback contribute to a sense of partnership. This personalized approach aims to make the entire experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible, fostering not just satisfaction but also brand loyalty. By combining technical excellence with a personable touch, I aim to create lasting connections that extend beyond individual projects.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.willgehring.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willgehringcolor/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamsgehring/