How to Deliver a Master for Netflix, Amazon, and Theaters — Color Specs Explained

This post is written for filmmakers, editors, and post supervisors delivering to streaming platforms or theatrical screenings. If you're prepping your final export and want to avoid costly mistakes, this guide is for you.

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Finishing the edit doesn’t mean your work is done. Distributors like Netflix, Amazon, and theaters expect masters delivered to precise technical standards — not just something that “looks good.” Get it wrong, and you’ll risk rejection. Get it right, and your film plays back exactly as intended.

This article covers the color space, bit depth, and export settings required to deliver properly for each platform.

1. Know Who You’re Delivering To

There’s no universal master file. Here’s what the most common platforms typically require:

Platform	Bit Depth	Color Space	Preferred Codec
Netflix	10-bit	P3-D65	IMF (JPEG2000 in MXF)
Amazon Prime	10-bit	Rec.709 or P3	ProRes 422 HQ or XDCAM
Theaters (DCP)	12-bit	XYZ	JPEG2000 in MXF

🎯 Pro tip: Choose your grading target and output spec early in post. Your delivery format should shape how you color from the beginning.

2. Choose the Right Color Space From the Start

The wrong color space leads to shifts, compression artifacts, and rejection from QC.

• Rec.709 → Best for SDR delivery (Amazon, Vimeo, YouTube)

• P3 → Common for HDR grading or Netflix workflows

• XYZ → Required for DCP delivery in theaters

• ACES → Ideal if you’re future-proofing or delivering to multiple formats

If you're using DaVinci Resolve, make sure to match your timeline color space to your intended output — and apply the right Output Transform if using ACES.

3. ProRes Export Settings for Amazon Prime and Netflix

Here’s a standard export for most streamers and online delivery:

• Format: QuickTime .mov

• Codec: Apple ProRes 422 HQ

• Resolution: 1920x1080 (or 3840x2160 for UHD)

• Bit Depth: 10-bit

• Color Space: Rec.709 gamma 2.4

• Audio: 48kHz, 24-bit, stereo or mapped channels

If you're delivering to Amazon Prime Video, this will usually pass spec — as long as your levels are legal and there’s no RGB clipping.

💡 Need help optimizing your export for Prime? Check out our Amazon Delivery Guide.

4. Color Grading: Don’t “Eyeball It”

Platforms will reject your film if they detect illegal levels, blown whites, or broadcast-unfriendly color space errors.

Your Checklist:

• ✅ Use a calibrated monitor (or Rec.709 Color Managed workflow)

• ✅ Confirm levels using waveform scopes — not your screen

• ✅ Check playback on at least 2 devices (laptop + TV or projector)

• ✅ Keep luma under 100 IRE and avoid crushed blacks

🎯 Want to avoid stress? Work with a professional colorist who can ensure your file is QC-ready and tailored to the delivery platform’s spec.

5. One Export Doesn’t Rule Them All

Most filmmakers want their film to go to both festivals and streamers — but these require different specs.

Here’s a delivery plan:

• ✅ Export a 10-bit ProRes Rec.709 master

• ✅ Create a separate DCP (24fps, XYZ color space) for theaters

• ✅ Burn-in subtitles only when needed (festivals often require them)

• ✅ Convert to IMF (Netflix) or XDCAM (broadcasters) if requested

FAQ

What codec does Netflix use for delivery?

Netflix prefers IMF packages using JPEG2000 encoding, wrapped in MXF.

Can I use Rec.709 for Amazon Prime?

Yes, Amazon accepts Rec.709 gamma 2.4 in 10-bit ProRes formats.

Is XYZ required for DCP?

Yes — all DCPs are delivered in XYZ color space, often at 24fps, wrapped in MXF.

Conclusion: The Look is the Language

Delivering a technically correct master isn’t just about looking good — it’s about speaking the visual “language” of each distribution platform.

Whether you’re sending a short to Prime or prepping a feature for theatrical release, the right delivery specs ensure your film looks just as good on screen as it did in your color bay.

👉 Need help exporting a delivery-ready master or creating a proper DCP? Get a Quote — We specialize in post for indie filmmakers.

✍️ About the Author

Written by Mark Ledbetter, editor, colorist and founder of Testament Productions. He helps filmmakers deliver stunning, spec-compliant masters for social media, streaming and cinema.