Cinematographer
1/4 CTO is my secret weapon for flattering skin tones in daylight. Pure 5600K can look cold on skin – with 1/4 CTO, I achieve a warmer 4900K.
Color temperature conversion filter at 1/4 CTO strength, warming light by approx. 600K. Ideal for subtle color correction and mixed lighting situations.
Technical Specifications
1/4 CTO (Color Temperature Orange) shifts the color temperature by -34 Mired, lowering daylight from 5600K to approximately 4900K. Lee Filters lists this filter as #206, Rosco as #3409. Light transmission is 70%, corresponding to a loss of only 0.5 stops.
Skin Tone Optimization
The 4900K color temperature is in the optimal range for natural-looking skin tones. Pure daylight (5600K) can appear bluish-cool on fair skin. With 1/4 CTO, skin appears warmer and more uniform.
LED Correction
Modern LED panels with a fixed 5600K color temperature particularly benefit from 1/4 CTO. Inexpensive daylight-only panels can be corrected afterward with 1/4 CTO diffusion.
Comparison of CTO Strengths
| Filter | Mired Shift | Kelvin (from 5600K) | Light Loss |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8 CTO | -17 | 5300K | 0.2 Stops |
| 1/4 CTO | -34 | 4900K | 0.5 Stops |
| 1/2 CTO | -68 | 4100K | 0.9 Stops |
| Full CTO | -131 | 3200K | 1.3 Stops |
From the crafts
Perspectives
Director
I use 1/4 CTO for the visual transition between a neutral and a warm look. An HMI with 1/4 CTO creates a subtle warmth that's perceived as friendly.
Producer
With only 0.5 stops of light loss, 1/4 CTO is the most efficient warming option. I don't need stronger lights.
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Quiz
1. Zu welchem Department gehört „1/4 CTO (Quarter Orange)"?
2. Wie viele verschiedene Fachperspektiven bietet dieser Eintrag?