Steve Oliff, born February 20, 1954, is an American colorist who has shaped the look of comics for more than four decades. Working under the studio name Olyoptics, he entered the industry in 1978 and built a reputation as one of the most technically accomplished colorists of his generation, particularly during the pivotal transition from traditional production methods to computer-assisted coloring.
Hulk #17 (1979)
His catalog spans an impressive range of titles — over 260 credited issues across a career stretching from 1979 into the mid-2020s. Among the books most associated with his work are Todd McFarlane's *Spawn*, Sam Kieth's *The Maxx*, and a cluster of titles that defined the early Image Comics era, including *Pitt*, *Cyberforce*, and *Strikeback!*. He also contributed to *Airboy*, demonstrating range beyond the superhero genre. Oliff was at the forefront of applying computer coloring techniques to mainstream comics at a time when the medium was actively reconsidering what color on the page could achieve — not merely filling in line art, but contributing genuine atmosphere and mood.
The DragonLance Saga #1 (1987)
His work on *Akira* for Marvel's Epic imprint, though not reflected in the catalog excerpt here, is widely regarded within the industry as a landmark application of digital coloring to comics. His longevity and consistent quality have made Olyoptics a trusted name among artists and publishers alike.
