What does the process of conforming refer to in post-production?

The process of conforming in post-production specifically involves relinking offline proxies to online source footage. This stage is crucial because, during production, filmmakers often work with lower-resolution copies of the original footage—known as proxies—to make the editing process more manageable and efficient. Conforming is the step where editors take the work they've completed with these proxies and then match it back up with the high-resolution source files, ensuring that all edits, cuts, and sequences align correctly with the best quality footage available.

This step is essential for maintaining the integrity of the project, especially as it prepares the film for further processes, such as color grading and sound mixing, where high-quality footage is vital. It sets the stage for all subsequent post-production work, so a solid understanding of this process is fundamental for any film production workflow. By ensuring that the final cut reflects the intended vision with high-quality imagery, conforming plays a pivotal role in the overall production pipeline.