Pitch Dictionary by pitch.dog
Cut stages & review versions · Core

Picture lock

Also called: lock, locked cut

ELI5

The point when the edit’s timing and shots are meant to stop changing.

Used in conversation

“Sound and VFX can begin final work once we reach picture lock.”

Definition

The point at which the picture edit and duration are fixed for final sound, VFX, colour and delivery, barring authorised change.

Here “Picture lock” means: The point at which the picture edit and duration are fixed for final sound, VFX, colour and delivery, barring authorised change. Other meanings are stored as separate sense entries and must be chosen explicitly.

Pitch context

You may encounter “Picture lock” 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

  • Final cutFinal cut concerns authority or final approval; picture lock is a workflow point when picture timing should stop changing.
  • Director’s cutA director’s cut names a version and authorship position; picture lock names editorial stability for downstream work.
  • Fine cutA fine cut is highly refined; picture lock means timing changes should stop because downstream work depends on it.
  • Locked cutA locked cut indicates editorial restriction; picture lock is the formal point after which downstream departments rely on timing not changing.
  • EditThe edit is normally approved before picture lock.
  • ConformConform normally relies on the locked editorial timing.
  • Final mixFinal sound work depends on stable picture timing.
Sources & evidence · 10

Supporting source families. This entry is an editorial synthesis rather than a quotation from one canonical glossary.