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Advanced Chroma Keying In Fusion: A Complete Walkthrough

Learn to key and composite a complex green screen shot from start to finish with these advanced techniques in DaVinci Resolve Fusion.

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.

Clean Plates For Superior Chroma Keying In Resolve Fusion

Learn to use Fusion’s DeltaKeyer and CleanPlate tools - and how to replicate them in other tools - and improve final chroma keying results.

Advanced Chroma Keying Edge Operations, Light Wrap in Fusion

Learn to fix edges when chroma keying in Fusion. Blur, color correct, and extend colors on mask edges—including effective light wrap effects.

Advanced Despill Operations - Chroma Keying In Resolve Fusion

VFX artist Bernd Klimm teaches advanced techniques for managing chroma spill. Plus, learn to execute the concept of 'adaptive spill removal'.

‘Hard Comp — Soft Comp’ And Efficient Delta Keyer Workflows

Bernd Klimm shows you how to refine chroma keys for fine detail & hard edges using Fusion's matte controls, masks, despill, and more.

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.

Chroma Keying Part 1: Quick Results Using Resolve's 3D Keyer

Learn to pull effective greenscreen keys with DaVinci Resolve's 3D Keyer from the Edit and Color page, by VFX artist Bernd Klimm.

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.

Fusion Alpha Channel Manipulations 201: Advanced Tips & Tricks

VFX artist Bernd Klimm shares tips for creating advanced custom edge masks for better compositing and light effects in Resolve Fusion.

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

Alpha Channel Manipulations 101 - Fusion Page Fundamentals

Learn the fundamentals of alpha channel manipulations, including tonal adjustments, blurs, and combining masks from VFX artist Bernd Klimm.

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.

Using The ResolveFX Relight Plugin With The Fusion Page

Learn to accelerate the Relight ResolveFX by feeding normals maps from CG renders, making it a powerhouse effect for VFX and CGI workflows.

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.

Getting Great Greenscreen Keys Using Fusion’s Delta Keyer

Have you ever used Fusion's 'Delta Keyer' for greenscreens - but with poor results? You missed a step! Joey D'Anna gets you keying properly.

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.

Grading With Fusion: Connecting The Fusion and Color Pages

Take your color grading work to the next level in DaVinci Resolve. Learn how to use mattes generated in the Fusion page on the color page.

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

Rotoscoping to Replace a Foreground Element in Resolve Fusion

In Part 1 you learned how to remove an object. Now, rotoscope the motion of foreground elements using Polyline masks and keying.

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.

An Introduction to Compositing in DaVinci Resolve Fusion

Using a simple green screen from a low quality source, learn the power of Resolve's Fusion. Learn Boolean, Merge, and MatteControl nodes.

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