What It Does
Fixel LightIT 2 brightens underexposed shadows in After Effects footage by applying local color correction to dark regions. Its non-linear masking algorithm identifies shadow zones automatically, leaving properly exposed areas untouched. Works as a companion to Fixel DeLightIT (which handles highlights).
Key Features
Non-linear masking. The plugin automatically isolates dark regions without affecting midtones or highlights. Unlike standard curves or levels, it applies corrections only where shadows exist, avoiding the flat look from global adjustments.
No halos. The limited effect range prevents the bright edges that plague linear shadow-lifting tools. Transitions between corrected and untouched zones stay smooth even with heavy adjustments.
Preserve saturation mode. Corrections affect only luminosity, so colors don’t shift toward gray or muddy tones when you lift shadows. Useful for preserving skin tones in underlit footage.
User controls. Adjust the transition smoothness between relighted and original zones, and customize the masking threshold. All controls integrate directly into the After Effects interface.
Multi-CPU acceleration. Rendering happens faster on machines with multiple cores, important for working with HD or 4K footage.
Who It’s For
Colorists working with footage that has crushed shadows or poor lighting. Common in documentary work, event coverage, or any situation where you can’t control exposure on set. Also useful for compositors who need to match plate exposures without creating artifacts.
Pairs well with Fixel DeLightIT for full tonal control: lighten shadows with this plugin, tame highlights with the other.
Pricing
$49.99 (regular price $60). One-time purchase with no subscription. Owners of Fixel LightIT 1.0 get 50% off. Discontinued in current form but still available for sale. Compatible with After Effects CS5 through CC 2015.