What is the purpose of white balancing in video production?

The purpose of white balancing in video production is to establish a reference to true white. This process ensures that colors in the video appear natural under various lighting conditions. Different light sources, such as fluorescent bulbs, incandescent bulbs, or daylight, can emit light with different color temperatures, leading to a colored tint in the image if not adjusted. By correctly white balancing, the camera compensates for these variations, allowing white objects to look white and other colors to render accurately, contributing to the overall fidelity and quality of the video.

This essential practice helps prevent unwanted color casts and ensures that the imagery reflects what the human eye would perceive, providing a more authentic viewing experience. As a result, well-balanced colors can significantly enhance the visual storytelling in video production.