Duplicate the timeline to be graded.

Relink to files to be graded. If XML/AAF/EDL files are linked to offline media, project may incur overages or shift the delivery schedule

Collapse all layers down to one video track and remove elements not to be graded (text, graphics, overlays, FX and audio)

Uncouple nested clips and replace with original clips

Remove dissolves, reversals and dynamic speed changes. (Extend shot lengths to cover removed dissolves and speed changes)

Export an XML or AAF and backup EDLs.

Create a ProRes 422 “XFER” Reference QuickTime for each XML/AAF.

QuickTime should EXACTLY MATCH, frame for frame, the timeline to be graded.

Include burnt-in SOURCE TIMECODE and SOURCE CLIP NAME. This is critical to confirm prep is accurate.

Include the “OFFLINE” Reference Quicktime for each approved edit

This is the picture locked edit with graphics, sound, VFX and working color

A drive with either all the Raw Media

If sending a link, only the consolidated Raw clips that will be graded