Colour grading & look development · Working
ASC CDL
Also called: Color Decision List
ELI5
A simple standard for sharing basic colour adjustments between systems.
Used in conversation
“Send the ASC CDL with the dailies so editorial sees the intended basic grade.”
Definition
A standard set of slope, offset, power and saturation values used to exchange basic colour decisions.
Here “ASC CDL” means: A standard set of slope, offset, power and saturation values used to exchange basic colour decisions.
Pitch context
You may encounter “ASC CDL” in editing, colour, post & delivery conversations or materials.
Why it matters: Explains how recorded material becomes a finished, approved and technically deliverable work.
Connected terms
- Look-up tableA LUT maps input values through a fixed transform; CDL stores a small set of adjustable colour parameters for exchange.
Sources & evidence · 4
Supporting source families. This entry is an editorial synthesis rather than a quotation from one canonical glossary.
- Blackmagic Design — DaVinci Resolve Reference ManualSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences / ACES — ACES Glossary and User GuidesSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- Netflix — Partner Help Center Delivery SpecificationsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14
- European Broadcasting Union — EBU R 128 Loudness Normalisation and Permitted Maximum Level of Audio SignalsSupporting source family · primary · checked 2026-08-14