Color Grading Animation with Seasoned Colorist John Daro
How does color-grading animation differ from live action? Find out in our discussion with veteran editor and DI Colorist John Daro.
Python 101 Part 6 - Supercharging Code Writing With ChatGPT
Using Python to extract Chapter Markers and create a VTT subtitle file, Kaur Hendrikson teaches how to code with an 'AI' assistant.
Python 101 For Post: Intro To Python Scripting for DaVinci Resolve
In Part 5 of our Python scripting series, you will learn how to connect to Resolve's API, and connect to and manipulate timelines.
Office Hours Live: NAB 2024 Recap and Resolve 19 Public Beta
We discuss insights from NAB2024 & the Resolve 19 Beta. Join Daria Fissoun & guests as they delve into Blackmagic's latest tools & hardware.
Creating Custom Reusable Fusion Wipes for the Edit Page
Learn to build Fusion transitions ready for the Edit page using the Anim Curves tool to finesse every element of your template.
When Is A Dissolve A Wipe? On The Fusion Page, Of Course!
Learn how to create custom gradient transitions in DaVinci Resolve Fusion to customize and enhance your edits with unique wipe patterns!
Python 101 For Post: Verify Data And Perform Checksums
In Part 4 of our Python for Post Professionals series, we add checksum verification and colorful ASCII colors to our media copy script.
Python 101: Scripting Media Management Operations
In Part 3 of his series, Kaur Hendrikson dives into the deep end and teaches you to script a Media Management operation for copying files.
How To Adapt A Photoshop 'Channels' Technique to Resolve
Patrick answers a member's question about simplifying their node tree, adapting a Photoshop color grading technique to DaVinci Resolve.
A Guide To Composite Modes in DaVinci Resolve
Refresh your knowledge on blending modes: What they are, what they do, and how to utilise them as color grading tools in DaVinci Resolve.
Python 101 - Dealing With Input Errors, Loops, Lists, & Debugging
Kaur Hendrikson fixes the errors from Part 1. Then he adds complexity, teaching more foundational Python concepts, as we skill up.
Fusion Tools for Colorists - Shot Matching Composites In Fusion
Senior Compositor and Trainer Bernd Klim shares his tips and tricks on color-matching live-action footage in DaVinci Resolve Fusion.
Fusion Tools for Colorists - Building Color Page Grading Tools
There are useful Color Page grading tools that don't exist in Fusion. No worries, get guidance on creating them yourself.
Python 101 For Post Production Professionals - Getting Started
Workflow specialist & developer Kaur Hendrikson is teaching coding for post production! A skill that may help you break into the business.
Fusion Tools for Colorists - Getting Comfortable Grading in Fusion
Learn to use the color-grading tools in Fusion, from Curves to Printer Lights while displaying multiple scopes with the viewer's A/B buffers.
Fusion Monitoring Part 3: Accurately Viewing On External Displays
How do you *accurately* monitor a color-managed image from Fusion on your external monitor? Colorist Daria Fissoun teaches the workflow.
Connecting the APIs: From DaVinci Resolve To OpenAI, Part 2
Igor Riđanović shows you how to create a YouTube summary from a Resolve timeline with the APIs from DaVinci Resolve and OpenAI using ChatGPT.
Connecting DaVinci Resolve and OpenAI - Part 1
Using a little bit of Python code, you'll learn the fundamentals for connecting OpenAI and DaVinci Resolve using their APIs.
What's The Role of VFX Colorist? With Christian Ganea Reitmeier
What does a VFX Colorist do? Christian Ganea shares his views and workflows on some of Hollywood's biggest movies & shows at DNEG.
Build Your Own Custom Abstract Animated Backgrounds in Fusion
Igor Riđanović teaches how to quickly & easily generate unique animated backgrounds using DaVinci Resolve Fusion's 3D toolset.
Accurately Viewing Fusion Compositions in ACES Workflows
Images in Fusion can look different to the Edit and Color pages when color management systems clash. Here's how to fix that in ACES workflows
Animating Fusion Titles - Polishing Your Shared Title Templates
In Part 3, VFX artist Bernd Klimm customizes a shareable animated Fusion title template with expression modifiers, user controls, and macros!
Fusion-Photoshop Painting/Cleaning Workflow – Part 2
VFX artist Bernd Klimm continues his Photoshop to Fusion workflow with tips and tricks for removing an object using painting techniques.
Skill Up: Fusion-Photoshop Painting/Cleaning Workflow - Part 1
VFX artist Bernd Klimm imports one frame of a painted Photoshop still (removing an object) and shows how to composite it into a moving image.
‘Topaz Video AI’ Review: Video Processing Using Machine Learning
Jason Bowdach shows why you might use Topaz Video AI for difficult video manipulation tasks such as upscaling, retiming, and stabilization.
Runway AI - What Can It Do And Will It Take Over Our Jobs?
Are AI tools taking over our world? Tour some of RunwayML’s 'AI Magic Tools' and see if the results match the hype and can replace a pro.
Deep Dive Into A Complex Fusion Fuse Effect For The Edit Page
Igor Ridanovic shows how to write a reasonably complex Fuse, and save it as a Fusion Macro to access it in Resolve's Edit Page Effects panel.
Quick Tip: Exploring The Infinite Images Machine Learning Tool
Fill a vertical 9:16 image into a 16:9 horizontal frame - by painting it in using RunwayML.com's 'Infinite Image' machine learning tool.
Refining A Fusion Title Animation & Creating A Reusable Template
Learn how to use shading layers, add intro/outro animations, and package your Fusion animation as a *.drfx template for easy sharing.
A Deep Dive Into Creating Fuse Effects for DaVinci Resolve
Colorist, finisher, scripting/automation developer Igor Riđanović begins a 2-part dive into creating custom Fuse FX for complicated effects.
Grading An Animated Film: Speeding Up The Fusion Composition
In Part 2 of this series, colorist Patrick Inhofer shows you how he enabled complex Fusion comps for real-time, interactive color grading.
Using Custom Curves To Emulate Fill-Light Adjustments
Sometimes you want to 'open up' the shadows as if you added a bounce card or fill light to the scene. Custom curves make this easy.
Fixing Dead Pixels And Image Artifacts in Baselight
Image repair and dust-busting are frequent duties of colorists & finishers. Learn how Baselight's DSpot and Paint tools perform these fixes.
How To Manage Versions for VFX & Graphics in DaVinci Resolve
If you have many graphics or visual effects shots that might be replaced at the last minute, learn the value of Resolve's 'Take Selector'.
Advanced Optical Flow Techniques For Image Repair
Learn to use optical flow for more than speed changes. In this Insight, fix a corrupt frame and repair archival footage pull-down artifacts.
Digging Into The ResolveFX Surface Tracker (For Retouching)
Resolve 18's Surface Tracker combines a multiple-point tracker and a warper in one tool. Learn how it works while prepping a retouch job.
Joey’s Custom Workshop - Two Useful Scripts And A Fusion Effect
Colorist Joey D’Anna shares with you new custom tools for batch rendering, automatic backups, and a 3D motion control template.
Creative Coding with DCTL Part 8 - Refining UI Parameters
Colorist Cullen Kelly finished defining his Davinci Resolve DCTL plugin. Learn how he tweaks the interface, eliminating 'dead zones.'
Binary Logic In The Node Tree: Creating Procedural Node Structures
What does binary logic have to do with color grading? Colorist Joey D'Anna shows you how to build switches and logic into your Resolve node structure.
Match Move ResolveFX: A Color Page Multitool
In this Insight, Joey D'Anna shows you how to use the DaVinci Resolve Match Move ResolveFX plugin for powerful tracking, stabilization, and paintwork
Joey's Custom Workshop: Solving Problems Using DCTL and Python
Expand your colorist toolbox with custom Python scripts and DCTLs for Frame.io workflows, subtractive saturation, and timeline duplication.
Creating Reusable Custom Transition Presets In Fusion
Learn to use DaVinci Resolve's Fusion page to build custom, reusable transitions to work inside a node based ACES pipeline.
How Can You Color Process Mars Rover's Images In DaVinci Resolve?
Learn how to use DCTLs (and texture references) in DaVinci Resolve Fusion to debayer Perseverance rover raw images, yourself.
Creating Your Own Fusion Effects Plug-ins with DaVinci Resolve 17
Get an overview of how you can create your own 'plug-ins' for DaVinci Resolve's Edit Page with its new Fusion Effects functionality.
Using Fusion's 3D Camera Tracker for Patching and Object Placement
Learn how to insert 3D objects or paint out defects in videos with a moving camera using DaVinci Resolve Fusion's 3D Camera Tracker.
Using the Mocha Pro OFX Plugin in DaVinci Resolve Fusion
See the MochaPro OpenFX plugin in action to track and remove a logo on a car door - and finish / refine the composite in Fusion.
Better Blurring In DaVinci Resolve: Part 2
In the second part of his series on better blurring, Joey jumps into Fusion to explore its powerful capabilities to create natural-looking blurs.
ACES 201 - Node-based Grading, Sharing Looks to On-Set and VFX
In this webinar, learn an alternative approach to color grading ACES projects in DaVinci Resolve plus collaborating with others in ACES.
Removing Unwanted Elements Using ResolveFX Revival Plugins
Do you want to remove artifacts from dirty lenses or remove objects that are distracting. These ResolveFX can help you, in Resolve Studio.
Colorist Inspiration - January 2020
Dan kicks off January 2020 by looking back on 2019 and speaks about his personal favourite grades & experiences of the past year.
Macros on MacOS - Switching from AutoHotKey to Keyboard Maestro
Learn how to use Keyboard Maestro and Stream Deck to supercharge your workflow in DaVinci Resolve on Mac with powerful macros.
Color Grading In Spectachrome Part 2 - Working With The Fuji XT-3
Working with new cameras is always a challenge. Get an inside look at what Dan does when working with the Fuji XT-3 camera
Color Grading 'Origins' In Baselight - Project Overview
In this new series, Dan's grading the short film 'Origins' (using Baselight). It's got VFX, ACES, multiple deliverables (and light sabers).
Color Grading In Spectachrome - Starting With Grain
Dan answers some comments from members about why he adds his grain to the image at the very beginning of his node graph
Color Grading In Spectachrome - Going Full Wes Anderson Part One
Dan cracks open another project fresh from the grading suite. In this part we take a look at the Spectachrome brief & project organisation.
Working On The Road - Taking Vacation As A Freelance Colourist
Working as a freelance colorist seems like freedom and flexibility. But what do you do on vacation - and the client has urgent revisions?
Building and Re-using Fusion Setups and Macros in DaVinci Resolve
Learn how to build (and re-use) your Resolve Fusion comps as Groups and Macros. Plus, choosing which settings are exposed on the Edit Page.
My Favourite New Feature In Resolve 16 - Analog Damage ResolveFX
Dan shares his thoughts on recreating tape based artifacts using the brand new Resolve 16 Analog Damage tool.
Troubleshooting 101 – Color Compressor & Node Resizing
Dan shares his breakdown of cleaning up a bike frame using the color compressor and node resizing in Resolve
Troubleshooting 101 - Cleaning Up An Annoying Background
Dan shares his thoughts behind his solution to removing a reflection using Resolve's Color Page - on a 16mm shot with moving grain structure.
Overview of Materials and Auxiliary Channels in DaVinci Resolve Fusion
Learn the workflow of the 3D toolset in DaVinci Resolve Fusion. Discover how to change materials, add reflections, color grade 3D objects.
Look Inspiration - Emulating VHS Camcorder Footage
What's harder than faking a VHS-look from a high-end camera? Intercutting that look with actual crummy VHS. Learn one way to do it.
Colorist Inspiration January 2019 - Most Memorable Jobs of 2018
Every year Dan looks back at the previous year and shares his greatest successes. This year, he focuses on his most memorable jobs.
Using DCTLs And Expanding Resolve's Functionality
Do you perform repetitive tasks on a regular basis when color correcting or finishing? Then learn how to use DCTLs to automate those tasks!
Behind The Curtain - 16mm Style Grade Part Four
Dan wraps up his behind the curtain series with a watch through and matching pass on the whole video to make sure it flows as a whole film
Behind The Curtain - Not So Near-Set Grading
Dan shares his story from a recent "not so near-set grade" for an upcoming collaboration with friends on a short film.
Behind The Curtain - 16mm Style Grade Part Two
Dan picks up where he left off in this series on real time grading a music video. In part 2 we look at the noisy internal scene.
Behind The Curtain - 16mm Style Grade Part One
Dan shares the opening part to his full unfiltered look at how he graded a music video in a 16mm film style.
Introduction to Fusion's 3D Camera, Part 2 (using Expressions)
Learn how to animate unrelated properties using Expressions. In Part 2, we use the Camera's Z-position to drive another element's Opacity.
Behind The Curtain - 16mm Film Emulation
In this Insight, Dan shares his approach to creating a classic 16mm Film Emulation that he used on a recent music video.
Behind The Curtain - 80s Release Print Dirt & Texture
Finding the right balance of noticable and realistic is always a challenge. Dan shares behind the curtain on a film release print style grade.
Using Python and Expanding DaVinci Resolve's Functionality
Resolve's new scripting APIs open up exciting new possibilities. Learn how to get started by using Python to import comments from Frame.io.
Color Correcting With Blending Modes -Recovering Highlights With Multiply
Dan shares his technique of using the multiply blending mode to recover highlights easily and naturally via a layer node.
Colorist Inspiration - UK Music Video Awards 2018
Dan shares his thoughts on the UKMVA Nominations 2018 for best grading. This year he was also part of the judging panel.
Getting To Know Dolby Vision Part 3: Dolby Vision For Everyone!
In part 3 of our ongoing Dolby Vision series, learn about big changes to Dolby Vision & Resolve in 2018, plus new tools & workflows.
Grading Challenge - 90s Video Review
Dan shares his 90s video review and his attempt at going bold, bright soft and crushed in this grading challenge.
Integrating Graphics & Text Into A Dobly Vision HDR Project
Team Mixing Light is once again joined by Joey D'Anna to discuss integrating graphics and text into Dobly Vision HDR projects.
Understanding The Future Of Post Production and Color Grading: Part 1
Digital video post production and color grading is rapidly advancing. Which technologies do you need to prepare for? And why?
Color Grading HDR For The First Time - In A Live Competition!
Dan & Robbie describe watching colorists grade HDR for the first time, while competing! Plus, Mixing Light's partnership in China.
Color Grading Challenge: Recreating the 90s Pop Video Look
Dan kicks off a new grading challenge where he plays your client. It's based on a 90s pop video style color grade he recently recreated.
Behind The Curtain - Liberty Commercials: Adding Depth To Drone Footage
Drone footage is a very common occurance on timelines these days. Dan shares his techniques for adding depth to the footage.
What Can DPs Do To Make Final Color Easier?
Pat, Robbie and Mixing Light Contributor Joey D'Anna discuss what can DPs and onset staff do to make the final color grade easier?
Revisiting DCP Creation With Resolve 15
Resolve 15 supports the ability to create DCPs natively. In this Insight, learn how that works and get back ground info on essential DCP specs.
Behind The Curtain - Liberty Commercials Sun vs No Sun
Sometimes we are gifted with better sun than other times. In this Insight Dan shares his experience on a job shot over multiple months.
Behind The Curtain - Thrice The Grey
In this Insight, Dan shares his experience in developing a look to back up the lyrics and narrative in a music video by his favourite band.
Colorist Inspiration July 2018: Beyond the Usual Suspects
For Dan's Inspiration July 2018 he shares his list of top colorists inspiring him in the summer of 2018 with their amazing grading work.
Shared Storage For The Small Studio: Case Study With The Lumaforge Jellyfish Mobile
In this Insight, learn about the basic design of the Lumaforge Jellyfish Mobile, and why it might be a perfect solution for your set-up.
Elsewhere On The Web: Managing Saturation, Live HDR, Resolve Fusion (& more)
Summer 2018 round-up of don't-miss color correction tutorials from other websites (with commentary). We wish we had them here, first.
Rediscover The Basics - Fixing Exposure Shifts
Exposure shifts creep up in projects regularly. With the right node structure and correct technique you can easily fix these in seconds.
How To Paint, Track, and Replace A Logo In DaVinci Resolve Fusion 15
Learn how to track DaVinci Resolve 15's non-destructive paint tools in Fusion. Plus, get a tip for viewing a color grade inside Fusion.
Behind The Curtain - Live Concert Grade
Dan shares a tale of things going a bit wrong on a live concert grade w/ high powered LED lights and how moving over to ACES solved things.
10 Things I've Learned (So Far) About HDR Grading
In this Insight, Robbie explores 10 things he's learned in 3 years of grading HDR and how his recent experiences have informed his view on HDR.
The 3000 NIT FSI XM310K: Talking HDR With Bram Desmet
Flanders Scientific is shipping it's highly anticipated XM310K - a 31 inch DCI 4k 3000 NIT HDR mastering monitor with 12G connectivity. I talk to FSI CEO Bram Desmet about HDR & the XM310K.
DaVinci Resolve Compound Nodes: Efficiently Managing Looks
Now that DaVinci Resolve is gaining tools by the month, Dan takes a look at managing the node graph to keep things organised and flexible - with the goal of allowing for quick changes.
A Career As A Colorist: The Best Advice We've Received
We discuss the best advice we've received for our color grading careers. From attitude to technical to creative, we share what's worked.
Inspired By Lacoste, Timeless - Learning From An Award Winning Grade
What makes an award-winning grade so special? Dan attempts to break down what made the Lacoste, Timeless commercial so special and how we can pick up some tips to use on our own grades.
How Hard Is It To Export A 'Broken LUT' from DaVinci Resolve?
In an earlier Insight, you learned how to Stress Test your Look Up Tables (LUTs) to discover if they are introducing artifacts in your images. In this Insight, learn how easy (or hard) it is to generate 'broken LUTs' in DaVinci Resolve.
A Month Later: Team Mixing Light's Take On NAB 2018
It's been a little over a month since NAB 2018. We discuss what we saw including Resolve 15, new HDR monitoring, control surfaces and more.
Is Your LUT Damaging Your Image? How To Do A LUT Stress Test
Look-Up Tables (LUTs) are black boxes that make it difficult to know what precisely they're doing to your image. Colorist Jason Bowdach shows you how to stress test and evaluate your LUTs.
Getting Started As A Colorist & What's Changed In Grading?
We've got lots of questions from members asking how to get started as a professional colorist and how has grading changed over the years?
Practical Beauty Color Grading Level One: Quick and Effective
Sometimes even offering the smallest level of beauty work for a client can go a long way. Learn quick skin-smoothing / eyebag-reducing tips .
Color Correction Gear Head: May 2018 Edition
In this installment of the Color Correction Gear Head series, Robbie takes a look at the 2018 LG OLEDs (C8), the HD Fury Integral 4k, Aja 1616 12G Router, OWC Mercury HeliosFX and remote control application Splashtop.
Practical Beauty Work - Why You Need To Be Offering It
Beauty work and re-touching can be a great additional source of income as a freelance colourist. Dan shares his thoughts and kicks off a new series on getting involved in retouching.
Inspired by Mini 2018 - How One Colorist Emulates A Vintage Look
We've all seen amazing commercials and films that inspire us, but how do we turn that into color corrections that we can use on our own projects? Dan shares his approach to being inspired by a recent award-nominated color grade.
Talking LGs, OLEDs, and Calibration With Portrait Display's Tyler Pruitt
In this special edition Mixing Light Podcast, Technical Evangelist Tyler Pruitt joins Robbie to discuss LG's 2018 OLED monitors and various calibration issues like metamerism, colorimeter matrices and more!
An Introduction to Fusion (For Colorists) in DaVinci Resolve 15
While Fusion is a node-based compositor, its node tree is very different than the Color Page. Learn how to use Fusion in DaVinci Resolve 15 in under 15 minutes.
Resolve 15 New Color Page Features
In this Insight, colorist Joey D'Anna, fresh off demoing Resolve 15 at the Blackmagic booth at NAB 2018, shares his thoughts on the top new features that benefit the dedicated colorist the most in Resolve 15.
Behind The Curtain - Can You Prebuild An Ideal Node Structure?
Can you prebuild a perfect node structure and use it to speed up your grading? Dan is taking a deep dive to find out how well it works, and if it's a genius idea or a total waste of time.
From The Grading Room – Is Yellow The New Orange?
In the last couple of years there has been a shift away from teal and orange to teal and yellow. Dan investigates that transition and looks at his own grades. He also asks do you miss teal and orange?
Behind The Curtain - Refining and Enhancing 'Bread'
In this insight, we take a look at the final pass on the bread short film. Dan looks at his matching with fresh eyes, checks his black and white levels and decides on the sharpening and grain levels of the film.
Colorist Challenge: Moving From A Direct View Monitor To The Cinema
A member asks about grading on a direct view monitor vs. the cinema. We discuss the differences and why overcomplicating it is a bad idea!
Colorist Podcast EP 022: Dado Valentic
In this installment of the Colorist Podcast, Josh sits down with colorist, trainer and industry visionary Dado Valentic to discuss his much talked about presentation on color grading and AI, HDR workflow, on tools for colorists and more!
Behind The Curtain - Shot Matching 'Bread'
In part two of grading the bread short film, Dan dives into the matching side of things. Although it's the least glamorous part of grading it's also the most important.
How To Migrate PowerBins, PowerGrades, Configs Between Databases?
Team Mixing Light discusses strategies for moving Resolve PowerGrades, PowerBins & project configurations between databases.
Behind The Curtain - Bread Short Film Part One
In this new series, Dan is showing a real-time grade of the bread short film he graded recently. Shot in less than ideal conditions with natural light on a compressed camera, it's a great chance to see the good the bad and the ugly from the grading suite.
Handling A Rejected Grade, As A Freelance Colorist
Dan Moran recently joined the freelance world. He's curious how Pat and Robbie handle a client who rejects a grade - fix it or charge more?
Behind the Curtain - Commercial #2: From Base Grade to Final Look
In this Insight, Dan covers another of his behind the curtain commercials. This time we look at a bright morning kitchen scene. In this real-world assessment and grade, Dan focuses on getting a bright airy feel without losing on the filmic sense.
Grading The White Cyc Stand Up - When White Is Not White
In this video, you learn techniques for color correcting log encoded white cyc footage. Plus get several solutions for fixing common problems with these types of shoots and why, many times, your corrections are a compromise.
Behind the Curtain - Commercial #1: From Base Grade to Final Look
Dan returns to his Behind The Curtain series with a real-time insight that shows his approaches to this commercial grade. He covers primaries, look theory, shot matching and Look refinement.
Colorist Podcast EP 021:Shane Mario Ruggieri
In this episode, Josh talks to Shane Mario Ruggieri, C.S.I. from Dolby. Learn about HDR from the colorists perspective, Dolby Vision, HDR 10, grading HDR and SDR and more! If you're interested in HDR this episode is a must listen!
How Do You Choose A 4k Reference Monitor For Color Grading?
The Team discusses the pros/cons of 4k monitoring. We explore new offerings from Flanders Scientific including the XM650U and XM310K.
How To Color Grade Full Range for Data Level Broadcast Delivery?
A member asks a question about working in Full Range but delivering a video rendered to legal/broadcast levels. We work through the thinking.
From The Grading Suite: From Short Form To Reality
Dan shares the tale of his attempt at grading long-form reality television after spending 10 years being a pampered commercial colorist.
Grading A Short Film Part 2 - Testing The Feel Of The Footage
Dan shares his assessment of how to get the feel of the footage before you speak to the director. It helps when you can be upfront about what is and isn't possible.
Revisiting The Judd Modification When Calibrating OLED Displays
Team Mixing Light answers a member question about using the Judd Modification for an OLED reference monitor. What is it? When to use it?
Grading A Short Film Part 1 - Download The Footage
Dan is excited to launch a new series on Mixing Light that will feature a briefing from the real director of the project. In this intro Insight, download some RED 8k footage to attempt a grade before getting creative brief from the client.
Colorist Podcast EP 020: Ian Vertovec
In the first installment of the Colorist Podcast for 2018, Josh sits down with well-known colorist Ian Vertovec from Light Iron. They discuss Ian's work, ACES, HDR, VFX workflow and much more!
Talking About and Understanding Dolby Vision Color Grading
Building on Robbie's recent articles, Pat and Dan ask questions about workflow and Robbie's recent trip to Dolby in Burbank, CA.
What Not To Do When A Client Asks For A New Direction
Dan shares a tale from the grading room of a film emulation gone wrong and how by missing the mistake was destined to fail in the grade with his clients.
Hollywood Restoration and Remastering: Colorist Marc Wielage
Film restoration and remastering is a specialty in the craft of color grading. Learn how a Hollywood colorist handles its unique challenges?
Building A Show LUT to Keep Your Looks Consistent
When you have complex node trees, rolling it into a show LUT can make your life. Learn how to build your own LUT for your project.
Getting To Know Dolby Vision Part 2: Delivering To non-HDR Televisions
In part 2 of our Dolby Vision series you learn more about suite setup. Then you dive into using the Dolby Vision trim controls (in DaVinci Resolve) for Standard Dynamic Range TVs. Plus, Dolby Vision 'mezzanine' file creation.
Colorist Inspiration - January 2018 Edition
Colorist Dan Moran spends the first day of January 2018 looking back on his best work from 2017. Picking his favourite commercials, music videos and long form narrative projects and also sharing the stories behind when he enjoyed them so much.
Image Cleanup In Resolve - Rotoscoping, Cloning, and Repeated Frames
Being able to offer Basic Cleanup in the grade is a great ability. It saves moving to and from a compositing application and helps finish off that job.
The Fundamentals of Rotoscoping in DaVinci Resolve
Sometimes a shot is so basic that a little VFX knowledge goes a long way. In this insight Dan shares his real world rotoscoping example
Getting To Know Dolby Vision Part 1: Terminology, Gear, and Workflow
In part 1 of our series on getting to know Dolby Vision HDR workflow & color correction, you learn the essentials of setting up a professional Dolby Vision mastering suite.
Fixing VFX Colorspace Issues In A Problematic Pipeline
VFX colorspace issues are the last thing you need when you are on a tight deadline. Dan shares his experience solving issues like these.
Colorist Podcast Episode 18: Patrick Woodard
In this installment, Josh talks to Digital Film Tree lead colorist Patrick Woodard about color correcting high-end TV, remote sessions, ACES and more!
Inside the Color Grade Of A Furniture Brand - Series Overview
In a new series Dan shares a look behind the curtain at a real world grading project. From quoting to delivery he dives deep on his process.
Color Correcting Using New Software - Have Confidence In Yourself
Most of us are more comfortable using the same software all the time but why limit your opportunities? Dan shares his tips on learning a new software.
Colorist Inspiration - UKMVAs Best Color Nominations 2017
Dan shares his thoughts about the UKMVA nominations 2017 for best music video color grading award and asks you to predict the winner
Colorist Podcast Episode 17: Bob Festa
In this episode, Josh talks to legendary colorist Bob Festa about his gigantic body of work, grading techniques and much more!
Grade Rescue - Saving A DSLR Moving Portrait
Dan filmed some bad footage on his 7D with the wrong color temperature, harsh lighting & heavy compression. He offers up his best effort on a grade rescue.
Getting To Know The El Gato Stream Deck: Part 1
Designed for gamers and streaming is the El Gato a suitable control surface supplement for colorists? In this Insight, learn about the Stream Deck
Can You Save This Shot? (while learning Resolve's Noise Reduction)
Download and color correct a challenging video clip - following the instructions of a supervising colorist. And learn about Resolve's noise reduction.
Color Grading Challenge - Beauty Grading Review
Dan critiques your beauty grading entries and shares his attempt. The challenge was quite advanced and the results are great. Dan's DRX is also downloadable
Colorist Inspiration – September 2017
Dan shares his inspiration for this month by checking out the nominations for Outstanding Color Grading at the HPA awards
Surviving (And Finishing) A 1000 Shot Project In 2 Days Or Less
Coloring long form projects with very quick turn arounds can be very challenging. In this article, learn techniques for surviving & finishing big projects
Colorist Podcast Episode 16: Alexis Van Hurkman Part 2
In this episode, Josh continues his conversation with director, author and colorist Alexis Van Hurkman. they talk HDR, ACES and more!
Grading Challenge - Beauty Grading Brief
Beauty grading is a discipline all on its own. Dan shares a typical client brief and will offer stages of feedback like a real world client
Is Magic Bullet Looks 4 Fast Enough For Client-Attended Sessions?
Magic Bullet Looks is a powerful plug-in for creating looks. Does the newest version play back in real-time? How is its performance in Davinci Resolve?
Thinking Like A Colorist - The "Final Grade"
An old school technique that is still regularly used today in commercials. Having a break between grading the same footage has huge advantages.
Colorist Podcast Episode 15: Alexis Van Hurkman
In this installment of the Colorist Podcast Josh talks to well known author, director, and colorist Alexis Van Hurkman about a wide variety of color topics
Eye Training : Diagnose and Compare
In a new series Dan shares his guide to training your eye for contrast issues. Follow this four step process to learn how to diagnose and fix your images
RED's IPP2 Pipeline In Resolve (Sort Of)
RED's new IPP2 processing pipeline has a lot to offer, in this Insight, we explore the new pipeline setup in RedCineX & DaVinci Resolve 14
Colorist Inspiration – August 2017
Dan is turning 30 and shares his work from across the years to show how his grading has evolved and improved year after year
Feature Grading: Using Markers To Keep Your Sanity Part 1
Managing the elements and components on a feature film is pretty much a full time job. Dan shares his tips for using markers to stay on top of his project
Using Resolve 14's New Color Stabilizer To Smooth Exposure Bumps
If you're trying to smooth out exposure changes in your footage then you'll love using Resolve 14's new Color Stabilizer filter (and avoid keyframing).
Is Resolve 14's New Stabilizer An Upgrade (or is it dumbed down)?
In DaVinci Resolve 14, the Stabilizer got a new set of controls that seem overly simple. Has this tool been upgraded? Or should you work in Classic mode?
Thinking Like A Colorist - Assessing Tonal Range
Dan shares his new approach to Assessing Tonal Range and the initial grading moves by asking. Are you trying to make it look better or different?
Colorist Podcast Episode 014: Juan Ignacio Cabrera, CSI
in this installment of the Colorist Podcast, Josh talk to colorist Juan Ignacio Cabrera about his work on cutting edge projects & many other subjects.
Creative Color Grading - Blending LUTs | Mixing Light
Some jobs just call for the grade to be turned up to 11. A fun way to do this is by blending multiple LUTs together and enjoying the happy accidents!
Dust Busting - Removing Dirt In Resolve
Dust Busting in one of those tools you don't know exists in Resolve. Dan shares his tips on how and when to use it in the grade
Our New DaVinci Resolve14 Traning & Revisiting Remote Rendering
The Team discusses our new Resolve 14 New Features title as well as DaVinci Resolve Remote Rendering with guest Joey D'Anna.
From The Grading Room – Grading Lucy Rose
Dan shares the behind the scenes thoughts that go into such a stylised 70s era music video for Lucy Rose. 80% in camera and 20% in the grade
Colorist Podcast Episode 013: Vanessa Taylor
In this installment of the Colorist Podcast, Josh is joined by colorist Vanessa Taylor. From balancing tech & art, grading HDR this is a great listen!
In Action: Working With The Key Mixer In DaVinci Resolve
In Part 2 of this series on working with alpha channels in DaVinci Resolve, learn how to use the Key Mixer to solve tricky a tricky problem on a commercial.
From The Grading Room – A Tribute To An Icon
Sometimes we need to go outside our role as traditional colorist. Dan shares his story form his work paying tribute to an icon
Getting To Know The Resolve 14 Collaborative Workflow Part 2
In this Insight, we put Part 1 into action and explore the powerful workflows possible with Resolve 14 collaborative workflows.
Dan's Month In ACES
Dan spent a month in ACES getting to know the new way of grading. In this insight he shares his thoughts on the good the bad and the ugly of ACES.
Creative Grading - Retro Sci-fi Look
Sometimes you have to go full cheese and pay homage to looks and films from the 70s and 80s. In this insight we create a retro Sci-Fi look
Getting To Know The Resolve 14 Collaborative Workflow: Part 1
Among Resolve 14's great new features, the redesigned collaborative workflow stands out. In this Insight, learn the essentials of Resolve collaboration.
In Action: Working with Key Signals in DaVinci Resolve
Working with key signals in DaVinci Resolve isn't hard - but it's not intuitive either. Once you figure it out, it's also a power feature. Learn more.
Find Your Color Correct Inspiration -Best Colorist Nominations 2017
Dan Moran shares his thoughts on the best commercial color grade nominations 2016. Top work from excellent colorists are great sources of ideas.
Colorist Inspiration - ACES In May
Dan is committing to doing work only in ACES in May. It's time to get out of the comfort zone & stop testing. Changing our technique is scary but also fun!
DaVinci Resolve 14: First Look
In this Insight, we take a look at some of the compelling new features in DaVinci Resolve 14 including OFX, performance and editing improvements.
Color Correction Gear Head: Review of the Resolve Mini Control Panel
In this installment of Color Correction Gear Head veteran colorist Marc Wielage provides his impressions of the new Resolve Mini Control Panel.
From The Grading Room - Are We Sterilizing Images?
Now that most people have a basic knowledge of color correction thanks to Instagram what does that mean for us colorists?
First Look: Getting To Know the Resolve Mini Control Surface
In this special edition of the Color Correction Gear Head series, we welcome Joey D'Anna & his review of the Resolve Mini Panel.
Green Screen Keying & Managing Transparency In Resolve
Learn how to pull a green screen key in DaVinci Resolve and how to manage transparency and render alpha channels.
Becoming A Better Colorist - Stop Focusing On Individual Shots
We should be spending more time looking at the timeline as a whole than focusing on shots. Nobody ever watches a single shot!
Skin Tone Essentials: Hands, Arms, Legs and Feet Part One
Have you ever considered hands or legs when doing a beauty grade? We spend hours on faces but the skin should match all over the body.
Colorist Podcast Episode 010
In this edition of the Colorist podcast Josh talk to the famed Warren Eagles from the International Colorist Academy.
Breaking Geographic Boundaries: Remote Grading Part 2
In part 2 of this ongoing series, Robbie explores using Streambox's Hybrid Encoder for remote sessions plus some additional gear.
From The Grading Room – Knowing When To Start From Scratch
Sometimes when grading you end up going in totally the wrong direction have to just stop what your doing and start from scratch.
Getting To Know The EasyDCP Resolve Plugin: Streamlined DCP Creation
Want to make a DCP directly from Resolve? In this Insight, Robbie explores the essentials of using the EasyDCP Resolve plugin.
Feature Grading: Getting Started
Getting started on a feature film can be a daunting process. Dan shares his experience on getting the ball rolling slowly and carefully
Colorist Podcast Episode 09
In this episode of the colorist podcast, Josh talks to Technicolor senior colorist Peter Doyle about his amazing career & many other subjects
Feature Inspired Color Grading Looks - Blade Runner 2049
Inspired by the Blade Runner 2049 trailer Dan shares his attempt at recreateing the intense warm washed look.
Breaking Geographic Boundaries: Remote Grading Part 1
In part 1 of a 3 part series, we explore the different methods of remote grading and how remote work can help your bottom line.
Developing Looks And Settling On Your Exposure Levels
In How I Grade Part Two Dan shares more steps in his grading process. We look at auditioning looks and checking the correct exposure
Colorist Podcast Episode 08
In this episode of the colorist podcast, Josh talks to industry veteran/legend Dale Grahn about his storied career & many other subjects
How A Colorist Makes Decisions Through The Grading Process
Dan attempts to walk through his thoughts when grading step by step from quality control to setting the first primary correction
The Look Of 'Westworld' & Look Creation Philosophies
Robbie, Pat, and Dan discusses the look of the series 'Westworld' and our look creation philosophies when color grading.
Sky Replacement - Is It An Essential Skill For Colorists?
If a client asks for a sky replacement; as a colourist, should you? If so, how? Plus a tip on where to start when evaluating a sequence.
Why We Love LUTs and How To Replace Your LUT Addiction
Most of us love to use LUTs behind closed doors. Dan shares his thoughts on why and how to break out of needing LUTs
Creating Haze To Add Depth To Your Image Without Using Shapes
Using Haze as a grading tool is an alternative method to using Vignettes. Making things lower contrast helps them sit back in the image.
Finishing In Resolve - Reframing, Blanking & Delivering
Reframing in Resolve as become common practice. Dan shares his approach to finishing in the box and shares his tips and tricks
Creating the Classic Black and White Look By Thinking Like A Colorist
Dan shares the skills he learned in the darkroom and how he applies them to grading black and white in DaVinci Resolve
New Year Resolutions 2017: Improving Your Business & Color Grading
In this Insight, Robbie shares a number of new year resolutions for potentially improving your business & color grading.
Thinking Like A Colorist: Breaking Down the Western Scene
Download the footage and follow along as professional Colorist Dan Moran, CSI color corrects a classic shot in the style of a Hollywood Western Look.
Thinking Like A Colorist - Color Correcting A Forest Scene
Colorist Dan Moran shares a color correction breakdown on how he approaches a new shot, sight unseen. How to make it an alien planet or a shed in a garden?
Making The Move From Mac To A Windows PC, Part 1: Addressing Common Objections
In part 1 of new series on switching from the Mac to Windows, we address some common complaints often cited about moving from a Mac to a PC
Matching Pantone References - And When To Say No
Matching Pantone references to video can be tricky at the best of the times. Get advice on getting that exact match - even if it's not precisely correct.
An Interview with Professional Colorist Rob Bessette
In Episode 6 of the Colorist Podcast, Josh Petok talks to commercial colorist Rob Bessette about his career, grading commercials & more!
Warm Looks: Yellow Warmth Vs Red Warmth (which are you?)
Warm looks don't always have to be rosy red and cozy looking. Take a look at a non-traditional warm color and learn how to add it to your color toolkit.
Getting To Know ACES Part 4: The Latest In ACES Updates
Continuing our introductory series on ACES, you learn about the latest updates to ACES, including a working color space added to the ACES 1.03 specficiation: ACEScct. Plus, how it effects DaVinci Resolve colorists.
Find Your Color Correct Inspiration - British Arrows Best Colorist Nominations 2016
Dan Moran shares his thoughts on the best commercial color grade nominations 2016. Top work from excellent colorists are great sources of ideas.
Syncing Resolve's LUT Folder & Viewing HDR & SDR Simultaneously
A member asks how they can easily sync Resolve's LUT folder between suites. Plus, the pros/cons of viewing HDR & SDR simultaneously.
Colorist Podcast Episode 005
In Episode 5 of the Colorist Podcast, Josh talks to well-known online editor & colorist Terence Curren about his work & other sujbects
Showreel 2016 - Showcasing Your Creative Range To Win Clients
Are you showcasing your range of looks and grades with your showreel? Dan breaks down his latest reel and explains his approach.
Getting To Know ACES Part 3: Visual Effects Workflows
Our Getting To Know ACES series continues, looking at the essentials of using ACES for VFX roundtrips with DaVinci Resolve. You learn how to move images between VFX and color grading within the ACES color science.
Getting To Know ACES Part 2: More Terms & Resolve Setup
Start digging deeper into ACES terms and acronyms that will have you sounding like a pro. And you learn how to set up ACES in DaVinci Resolve.
Colorist Inspiration - UKMVAs Best Color Nominations 2016
Dan shares his thoughts about the 2016 best color grading award nominations and asks you to predict the winner
Color Grading with the ResolveFX Lens Flare Plug-in
Dan shares his experimentation with the idea of grading using lens flares for subtle lighting effects to help match and lift scenes.
Colorist Podcast Episode 004
In Episode 4 of the Colorist Podcast Josh talks to well-known freelance colorist Mark Todd Osborne about his work & many interesting subjects
Color Correction Gear Head: September 2016 Edition
In this installment of Color Correction Gear Head we take a look at the Pascal Titan X GPU, LG B6 OLED, & some fantastic Focal Speakers
Colorist Inspiration – August 2016
The summer vacations are winding to a close, the kids are returning back to school and the post industry is winding up for that crazy blur that is the September…
From The Grading Room – Radiohead
Dan shares his story from the grading room on grading a short promo project for radiohead
Colorist Podcast: Episode 3
In Episode 3 of the Colorist Podcast Josh talks to well-known finishing artist & colorist Gray Marshall from Technicolor L.A. about his work.
How to Color Grade With Client Revisions In Mind
Sometimes we get lost in the heat of the moment and over complicate our grades. Dan shares his tips for responsible grading when time is short
Conform Issues Database – Introduction
Conforming timelines can be time-consuming before you even start color correcting. Learn the common issues (and how to fix them).
Resolve Remote Rendering: Setting Up A ProRes 'Dongle'
Working on a PC but need to render ProRes? In this Insight, learn how to setup Resolve remote rendering & use a spare Mac for ProRes renders
Dirty Color Grading Looks - Taking Your Image To The Limit
Dan shares his techniques for taking your image to the brightness, saturation, and sharpness limits while maintaining legal levels.
Bad TV: Essential Steps For Creating The Bad TV Look
Every once and a while you'll need to create a stylized bad TV or surveillance camera look. In this Insight learn how.
Dirty Looks: Early '00s Looks
Dan shares some looks from his past focusing on two Early '00s looks in particular. One home digital camera one heavy 35mm music video