My Davinci Color-Grading Workflow Explained | Simple & Effective!

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore a simplified color-grading workflow using Davinci Resolve, based on Kevin Ciotta's approach. Whether you're a beginner or someone looking to refine your technique, this guide will break down the essential steps for effective color grading, making it easier for you to enhance your video projects.

Step 1: Starting the Process

• Load Your Project: Open Davinci Resolve and import the video project you want to work on.
• Select Your Clip: Navigate to the timeline and choose the clip you wish to color grade.
• Access Color Workspace: Click on the "Color" tab at the bottom of the interface to enter the color grading workspace.

Step 2: Color Space Transform (CST) Explained

• What is CST: Color Space Transform helps to convert your footage from one color space to another, ensuring accurate color representation.
• How to Use CST:
  • Find the “Color Space Transform” effect in the effects library.
  • Drag and drop it onto your clip in the node editor.
  • Choose the input color space (the space your footage is in) and output color space (the space you want).

Step 3: Adjusting Settings

• Basic Settings: Ensure your settings match your project requirements.
• Node Structure: Organize your nodes logically. A typical structure may include:
  • CST Node
  • Primary Color Correction Node
  • Look Node
  • Secondary Correction Node

Step 4: Primaries Adjustment

• Access Primaries: In the color grading panel, locate the "Primaries" section.
• Adjust Lift, Gamma, Gain:
  • Lift: Adjusts shadows.
  • Gamma: Adjusts midtones.
  • Gain: Adjusts highlights.
• Practical Tip: Use the waveform monitor to keep an eye on your levels as you adjust.

Step 5: Creating a Look

• Use LUTs or Effects: Apply a LUT (Look-Up Table) to create a specific look or style.
• Fine-Tune Adjustments: After applying a LUT, make minor adjustments using the color wheels or curves to fit your vision.

Step 6: Working with Windows

• Using Windows for Isolation: Create masks (windows) to isolate areas of your image for targeted adjustments.
• How to Create a Window:
  • Select the "Window" tab.
  • Choose a shape (circle, square, etc.) and draw it over the area you want to adjust.
  • Refine the mask shape and feathering for a natural look.

Step 7: Adding Halation

• What is Halation: Halation effects mimic the soft glow seen around bright areas in film.
• Applying Halation:
  • Use the effects panel to find halation effects.
  • Adjust parameters like strength and spread to achieve your desired look.

Step 8: Export Settings

• Prepare for Export: Once satisfied with your grading, navigate to the "Deliver" page.
• Select Render Settings:
  • Choose the format and codec that suits your needs (e.g., ProRes, H.264).
  • Set the resolution and frame rate.
• Export Your Project: Click "Add to Render Queue" and then "Start Render" to finalize your project.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, we've covered the essential steps for color grading in Davinci Resolve, including setting up your workspace, understanding color space transforms, making primary adjustments, creating looks, and exporting your project. By following these steps, you should be able to enhance your video projects effectively. Consider experimenting with different settings and looks to find your unique style. Happy color grading!