Your Color Grading Sucks, Not Your Footage!

Summary

In this video, the presenter shares a straightforward workflow for achieving a cinematic look using DaVinci Resolve, even in its free version. They walk through essential project settings and the process of building a node tree for color space transformations. Utilizing built-in film emulations and reference images from Frame Set, the video emphasizes the importance of balancing colors and adjusting exposure to enhance the footage. The final touches include adding subtle film grain and texture pop, culminating in a refined and visually engaging image. This informative guide caters to filmmakers looking to elevate their color grading skills.

Takeaways

• 🎥 Color grading in DaVinci Resolve can be done easily and effectively, even using the free version.
• 🔧 Start with proper project settings, including setting color science to DaVinci YRGB and using DaVinci Wide Gamut for a larger color space.
• 🌈 Build a node tree to manage color transformations, including transforming camera color space to DaVinci Wide Gamut and then to Rec 709.
• 📷 Use built-in film emulations, such as Fujifilm 3513 D65, to achieve a cinematic look.
• 📊 Use compound nodes to adjust the intensity of film emulations without affecting the underlying nodes.
• 🖼️ Reference images from platforms like Fram Set can guide your color grading process and help achieve desired looks.
• 📉 Adjust exposure and balance using HDR wheels and printer lights for targeted color corrections.
• 🔄 Utilize curves to fine-tune the tonal range by raising shadows and lowering highlights.
• 🌾 Add subtle film grain and texture pop effects to enhance the image quality and achieve a filmic feel.
• 💡 Implement power windows to create a controlled vignette, directing focus and managing light in the scene.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the video?

The video focuses on color grading in DaVinci Resolve, specifically demonstrating a workflow for achieving a filmic or cinematic look.

Which color science and timeline color space does the presenter use?

The presenter uses DaVinci YRGB color science and sets the timeline color space to DaVinci Wide Gamut.

What is the significance of using color space transformations?

Color space transformations are essential for converting footage from the camera's color space to a wider color space suitable for grading, ensuring accurate color representation on the monitor.

What camera settings are referenced in the video?

The footage is shot on a Sony A7S3 in S-Log3, using specific input color space and gamma settings to accurately transform the colors during grading.

How does the presenter apply a film look to the footage?

The presenter applies a film look by using DaVinci Resolve's built-in film emulations, specifically the Fujifilm 3513 D65, while ensuring the correct gamma settings.

What tool does the presenter suggest for finding reference images for grading?

The presenter suggests using Framset, a website that offers a collection of screen grabs from various films, commercials, and music videos for inspiration.

What adjustments does the presenter make to balance the image?

The presenter uses printer lights to adjust the color balance, subtracting red and adding blue to achieve a cooler tone closer to the desired look.

How does the presenter use the curves node in the grading process?

The presenter manipulates the curves node to raise shadows and lower highlights, effectively improving the contrast and overall appearance of the image.

What additional elements does the presenter add to enhance the final look?

The presenter adds film grain for a subtle texture and a texture pop effect to give extra detail and dimension to the image.

What is the purpose of creating a compound node in the workflow?

Creating a compound node allows the presenter to group multiple nodes together, making it easier to adjust effects collectively without disrupting the overall color grading structure.