Colin is the first person at the school to be Petrified. He is found holding his camera near the hospital wing after the Gryffindor versus Slytherin Quidditch match, with a bunch of grapes beside him. Professor McGonagall and Professor Dumbledore think he was attempting to visit Harry when he was attacked; his camera, when opened, lets out a jet of steam and the acrid smell of burnt plastic.
Colin calls down the Gryffindor table to greet Harry. He tells Harry excitedly that his brother, Dennis, is starting at Hogwarts this year, and asks Harry to keep his fingers crossed that Dennis is sorted into Gryffindor. Colin is thrilled when his brother joins Gryffindor, and listens excitedly as Dennis tells him about his journey across the lake. He enthusiastically points out Harry to his brother, and asks Dennis if he knows who Harry is.
Colin arrives in Professor Snape's fourth-year Potions class to fetch Harry. He tells Snape that Harry is needed for a Triwiard champion-related meeting. He escorts Harry to the classroom where the champions are required, wishing Harry luck as they reach the door.
Colin leads Harry from the Potions classroom to the room Harry is needed in. He tells Harry that the photographs are for The Daily Prophet, and wishes Harry good luck when they reach the right room.