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Color Workflow in DaVinci Resolve

Purpose 

This SOP provides a structured workflow for color grading in DaVinci Resolve. It ensures accurate color transformations, consistent grading, and proper export for both delivery and custom LUT creation. 

 

1: Node Setup 

 

  1. Node Structure: 

  2. Set up a standardized node pipeline: 

  3. Node 1: color transformation (if needed) 

  4. Node 2: exposure changes 

  5. The other nodes will depend on the type of footage you receive. Noise reduction, saturation, masks etc. Just remember to label the nodes for ease of use. 

(If more nodes are needed, they are perfectly fine as long as the output is to REC.709) 

 

2: Primary Grading 

 

  1. Adjust Exposure and Contrast: 

  2. Use the Waveform scope to set proper levels. 

  3. Ensure no image is overexposed. 

  4. White Balance: 

  5. Use the color picker or manual controls to correct any color temperature shifts. 

 

3: Secondary Grading 

 

  1. Skin Tone Alignment: 

  2. Use the Qualifier Tool to isolate skin tones. 

  3. Use the Vector Scope: 

  4. Align skin tones along the skin tone line. 

  5. Ensure consistency across all shots in the same scene. 

  6. Selective Adjustments: 

  7. Use Power Windows for targeted corrections (e.g., brightening faces or desaturating backgrounds). 

  8. Adjust color saturation and balance to emphasize the storytelling. 

 

4: Creative Grading 

 

  1. Apply Film Look or Creative Adjustments: 

  2. If needed, apply creative LUTs or manual grading for the desired aesthetic. 

  3. Adjust contrast, colors, and saturation to achieve the filmic or stylized look. 

  4. Match Shots: 

  5. Use the Gallery Stills or Split Screen Viewer to ensure consistency across shots in the same scene. 

 

5: Export LUTs (if required) 

  1. Create Custom LUTs: 

  2. Highlight clip for LUT creation. 

  3. Right-click on the clip and select Generate LUT. 

  4. Select the 33 point option. 

  5. Export Settings: 

  6. Save the LUT in the .cube format. 

  7. Place the LUT in the project’s LUTs folder with a clear naming convention: ProjectName_Scene#_LUT.cube Example: IntellectualProperty_Scene01_LUT.cube. 

 

6: Quality Control and Delivery 

 

  1. Check Scopes and Color Accuracy: 

  2. Use the Waveform and Vector Scope to verify levels and skin tone accuracy. 

  3. Confirm no clipping or oversaturation in the REC.709 output. 

  4. Delivery: 

  5. Export deliverables based on project specifications, ensuring all files meet F7 Studios’ standards. 

 

Approval and Revision History

  • Effective Date: Jan 1 2025

  • Approved by: Post Production Department Head, F7 Studios

  • Last Reviewed: April 2 2025

 

Consistency and Collaboration 

This workflow ensures professional, consistent, and ACES-compliant color grading, enabling seamless delivery and custom LUT creation. Following these steps guarantees a polished visual output aligned with F7 Studios’ quality standards. 

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