** In trying to keep my explanation simple in this beginners guide, my explanation of Display Referred grading in the first few minutes has not come across quite technically correct, however my intention was correct. Display referred grading means to grade AFTER the display profile has been assigned - in my explanation I use an example where you don't assign it and therefore just grade to the display. BOTH my way and the technical way mean that then switching to a different output space after grading is not going to work, so ultimately it's the same result - I just didn't explain very well here. Had I applied a LUT or CST to REC709 and then graded this would be display referred - I skipped that step. However grading with no colour management at all (as in this episode) is still Display referred grading as I demonstrate here. Grading UNDER a display CST, colour management or LUT is Scene referred as I demonstrate correctly here. Apologies for any confusion. Nothing I show in the video is incorrect technique. There is a balance in making beginners guides as to 'how deep to go' in explain something and I appreciate that its very hard to please everyone's level of understanding.. This is why I always clearly label my BEGINNERS episodes. This is from the DaVinci Resolve MANUAL... The default DaVinci YRGB color science setting, which is what DaVinci Resolve has always used, relies on what is called “Display Referred” color management. This means that Resolve has no information about how the source media used in the Timeline is supposed to look; you can only setup and judge color accuracy via the calibrated broadcast display you’re outputting to. Essentially, you are the color management, in conjunction with a trustworthy broadcast display that’s been calibrated to ensure accuracy. This is how I correctly demonstrated in this episode.
Darren, since I can't think of a better place to ask for some clarity, I'll ask it here-- We simply tell DaVinci our output is a REC709 *2.4* space. However, when researching methodology for accurately calibrating a display, there's much chatter about REC709 computer displays being gamma *2.2* Where is this discrepancy coming from? Does this hold true within Display P3? Mole hills quickly turn into mountains within forums and the web, so I'm hoping you can provide insight. One fly in the color ointment seems to corrupt the chain when aiming for purity of process, you know? Bonus- I'm using the P3 display in my 2019 iMac for my safari into color grading.
@@aroefilms Hi. Its a great question. Broadcast TV specifies a REC709 Gamma 2.4 delivery. This is what you should set your output to in Resolve, however this also needs to match your display. No point setting Gamma 2.4 and viewing it on P3 setting monitor. They need to match! Gamma 2.2 is standard for web/youtube delivery, but if your monitor is calibrated to 2.4 there is no point in changing it. They need to match so recalibrate or switch your monitor to be Gamma 2.2. I hope that helps. Gamma 2.2 is sometimes call sRGB although this is not 100% accurate in some cases, but might be your closest match. All the best, Darren
This was brilliant, Darren. The penny's finally dropped with CSTs here :) I've watched all your previous episodes too....I've no excuses other than an uncompliant small brain. That only took *cough* 12 months. Thank you, sir. I cannot wait for your next masterclass!
Pleased to hear that Andy. Next Masterclass should be early 2025. Sign up to the free email newsletter link at the bottom of the video description for updates. Wish you all the best with your new found colour management knowledge! Darren.
Perfect timing for this video as i am now trying to deepen my knowledge and understanding of various standards (eventually want to get into commercial and movie/feature work). But what I really came here to say is thank you. Because of you and a couple of others on youtube, I have been able to start a business in this career space and have my first 2 continual clients. This has given me an opportunity to get out of poverty while still managing my disabilities. Literally saving my life giving out information like this and i absolutely cannot wait to take your masterclass in the future. Thank you so much.
Very helpful video! I would love to see a in depth video dedicated to setting up your project color management settings. The various ways and why you would use one over another.
Great overview Darren. I see you use macOS. Can you please shed some light on tackling the color space on Mac? The videos I found use Display grading, I think they set Timeline color space to Reg 709-A. But I'd like to work in Color Managed workflow with DaVinci WG/Intermediate. Shall I just set Output color space to Reg 709-A? I did not see you doing anything like that. I did set Use Mac display color profiles for viewers and Automatically tag Reg 709 clips as Reg 709-A - is that it? Do I need to set the tags on the export settings? Thanks so much!
I feel less hesitant now to give ACES a try after watching the entire video. Hmm I'll give it a try on an old project to get comfortable with it first! Amazing episode. Thank you so much for the beautifully explained overview, especially about ACES. Really appreciate it!☺
Hi Chi!! As long as you are aware of the differences its certainly worth playing with. The gamut mapping in ACES is usually nicer - I forgot to mention that in this episode, but we covered it in the masterclass.
@@DarrenMostyn Got it! I’ll play around with it tomorrow. Might take some time until I’m comfortable enough to do a real job in ACES. But I’ll definitely keep you posted once I do🤗 GN
Thank you Darren for these excellent videos. I'm watching from a purely hobbyist/recreational perspective, but your teaching and presentation skills are outstanding. Your content makes me spend my spare time productively rather than getting lost in random content. Keep up the great work!
Exactly what I expected, another great explanation of a color grading topic so I can understand it the first time I hear it instead of having to work hard to just try to make sense of what the presenter is saying. Keep up the great work, Darren.
I’ve just created my Aces workflow node tree now & along with your DWG workflow node tree, I’ve got a choice now without having to change my project settings. Thankyou Darren, great tutorial! 👍😝👌🙌
Hi Darren. I’m a retired scientist and an artist, and I can’t compliment you enough about the quality of your presentations and the value of the information that you provide. EXCELLENT! I currently use Premiere Pro and plan to learn Resolve before my Adobe subscription renews. Please correct me if I’m wrong, but it appears that Premiere Pro color grading tools are amateurish compared to Resolve. I’ve watched a few videos that compare color grading in each application, and it appears much more difficult to get acceptable results in Premiere Pro. You’ve demonstrated a broad knowledge of color science and the ability to broadcast stunningly delicious colors. I’m envious your skills. Thank you for the education. 😊
Your videos are always a highlight in my learning journey. You have an incredible talent for breaking down complex topics like color management in DaVinci Resolve, making them accessible and understandable. It's clear that you put a lot of thought and effort into your content, and it truly shows. The depth of your explanations and the insights you provide are simply unmatched. I can't thank you enough for sharing your expertise and helping us unlock the full potential of this powerful software. Keep up the amazing work - we're eagerly awaiting your next video!
Fantastic. A comment on color management in general. I'm a complete amateur (actually a musician) and started messing with image - CGI, After Effects, editing etc - until I learned DaVinci Resolve and did some experiments with color correcting, grading etc. Someone I was doing the music for liked what I did and asked me to work as the colorist for a job. (What??) It was all non-commercial stuff, so I said yes and the first thing I asked myself when I got the footage (all log) was "what do I do with this" - meaning BEFORE starting to grade or correct. No one knew. I asked some friends who work professionally (VFX, colorists etc) and none could even understand my problem. They just start correcting it (display referred grading?). Only after watching your video about color management, I understood the problem. So, strangely, even professional people (here in Brazil at least) don't seem to understand what color space is. They just learn the process without really understanding it, which can be confirmed by looking at some series and ads here, where you can see the look jumping all over the place. There used to be even a "style" here called "francesinha" - little french - which is a greenish log look, if you can believe that. An error turned into a style. So, thank you so much for explaining so well what should be obvious, ha ha. Cheers.
Im so pleased to read your detailed comment and the fact you understand where i'm coming from means a lot! Good luck in your career path - sounds like you'll go far! All the best, Darren
@@DarrenMostyn Thanks, Darren. Not much of a career, only one job, and I'm old already (60) but it's all good. Here the VFX mafias won't let you in. Tried for years and nothing, but this one job is good enough. I do the music and the color correction, chroma key etc. It's already a lot. All the best to you, sir.
Thank you for this one! The last bit was particularly useful for me. I am a total beginner in colour management, using footage that was recorded on a Canon EOS 7D back in 2014. So, that's all the info I had, with no connection to the person who filmed the footage, and no idea what Input Colour Space or Gamma was used. In any case, this helped me get a general idea of where to start with this kind of footage. Much appreciated!
Really amazing stuff you're putting out there. You've literally saved me (and others I dare say...) quite a few hours working through various half baked truths and misunderstandings that are out there on the internet. Kudos to you sir, you are one hell of a teacher!
Thanks for another excellent video Darren. I love the CST workflow you use throughout your other videos and it's great to see this can also be applied for ACES too!
A great solution with the ACES color space. But, I'm still working in the DWG space However, ACES has a number of advantages when working with both a large dynamic range of colors and compatibility with other production facilities. I consider ACES to be the future, as it accurately interprets color with greater coverage and greater compatibility
But what about shifts after exports? I never get what i made in davinci except i set everything to rec709A. It would be so amazing if you could to a video about that topic - specially for us Mac users 🙌
Try this as well. Change your display preset to hdtv. Go into fine tuning and turn off system gamma boost and dial in your preferred screen brightness. Then just grade in resolve using standard rec709 2.4. when you render, tag your video 709/709.
Superb video and I am so relieved that my « guessing game technique » when the production is not knowing the camera log they shot with, is mentioned in this video 😂 I feel less alone, thank you Darren !
What a great video! Thank you - I learnt tonnes! Quick question (if that's ok). You mentioned 2.2 is for Web and 2.4 is for broadcast- what technically would be wrong with uploading a 2.4 to, say, CZcams or Vimeo? Or another way of putting it - what is the difference between 2.2 and 2.4? Thank you - and more videos for 'dummies' please - it really helps 'join the dots' for a much better understanding. Bravo! :)
Thank you for this incredibly informative and interesting explanation of ACES. I have played with ACES a little (I mostly use DWG) but this will help me in future projects when I decide to go down the ACES path. I can see some occasions where the higher contrast baseline of ACES might be useful. Thanks again, it was a great session.
What a phenomenal guide! Could you also make a video on how to grade and export (without color shift (rec.2020/DCI-P3)) in aces/DWG as the tools behave quite differently compared to display referred grading.
Thanks Darren, that was very informative. I understand color spaces better now. I consider myself an advanced freelance colorist, but most of my experience is with student films and music videos shot in RAW or Prores 422 and delivered in Rec.709, even for theatrical releases. I'm concerned about future projects that require Rec.2020, P3, or HDR delivery. I've learned so much from your videos and they've significantly improved my color grading skills. I would really appreciate it if you could make a video explaining these color spaces and the technical considerations for working with them. This would help me prepare for such projects.
Daren, thank you for excellent lesson. Would love to see a lesson from you which explains the end-to-end flow for HDR videos. Especially case where we start from S-Log3/S-Gammut3 and end up having HDR video uploaded on CZcams.
Very good episode! very well explained. Thanks for this video. If you allow me, I would love to see how HDR works, I think it would be a good episode to watch. Thank you so much
New to DR and color correction/grading ... while you lose me at times (enunciation, cadence and terminology) as I have no experience with any of these color profiles, I did get the fundamentals for setting the input color space and consider what the output color space should be and even how to set up a workflow among color spaces. I'm nowhere near fully understanding color management, but this start was really good, thank you, Darren! PS: Feel a bit overwhelmed at present as there's a whole science behind optics and color and sound, not to mention multiple programs to learn. But it's fascinating esp at the right pace!
take it one step at a time. Its a huge program. Try my beginners playlist out too. All the best. czcams.com/play/PL6VNHhfsVYJawp385IIyLemQL_ZBzgN_5.html
fantastic explanation! would love to see how to grade and deliver for youtube in hdr. im already doing it with nikon nraw nlog footage but im pretty sure im not doing it correctly.
Masterfully explained as always! I’ve only worked in aces years ago and had no idea about the AP0->AP1->AP0 background process 😮 Can you recommend some article to nerd further on the subject?
Hi Darren, @DarrenMostyn I really enjoy your videos, but I'm often a bit unsure about the output gamma settings. I notice you almost always set it to 2.4, and I assume that's because you're delivering for broadcast and your monitor is calibrated to gamma 2.4. But what do you do when you need to deliver for both broadcast and web? Do you set the output gamma to 2.4 and 2.2 respectively when exporting? And do you switch your monitor back and forth between 2.2 and 2.4? I assume that if you choose gamma 2.2 and are delivering for web, you won't see the result correctly on your gamma 2.4 monitor, right?
Hi Darren, got a question: In the section where you grade in a CST workflow, you set your timeline color space to DWG. Yet you go into a ACES color space with the transforms. Wouldn't that mean that your tools are now assuming DWG and not the ACES that you transformed to? You do set the color space correctly in the film look creator, but you would have to map every node between the IDT and ODT like that manually? Shouldn't the timeline color space then be ACES and not DWG?
Correct - even when doing color management manually with CSTs, one should set their working color space correctly in the project/timeline settings as it affects what color space aware tools expect.
because the first CST and the last CST are ACES then the tools behave like DWG however it wont affect the ACES workflow. You could of course set the timeline to anything you like. I like how the tools behave in DWG but your way would also work. and yes probably a better workflow. However if Im doing that I might aswell jsut set colour mamangement to ACES globally. I like the DWG baehaviour of the tools more than ACERS. Hope that helps.
As always a great video Darren, you always manage that fine line of including beginnings and taking us to quite an advance position in an easy to follow style. One question, no worries if it’s missed, Timelines, are they always Rec.709? Can it be changed?
Hey Darren, great video as always! I have a question though: What’s the reason to use ACES transform instead of CST? I see that CST has transforms for ACES as well. Am I missing something? The reason I’m asking is because ACES transform has WAY less source options than CST.
Always enjoy your episodes! When you went to RCM, you selected the Input Color Space and the the Canon Log2. But I have noticed an Apple Log option. What is that? Curious minds want to know.
Ive just returned from a holiday in Sicily with my two daughters. It was averaging 35 degrees which is harsh for a colourist!! Not burnt, just glowing!! I am very careful to apply lots of suncream! Glad you enjoying the tutorials anyway! Im off to Ibiza in a few weeks so expect me to look even redder soon!! Im nowhere near hitting the skin tone line on the vectorscopes right now!! All the best, Darren
Great video, thanks for putting this together. How do you create exr sequences for vfx in aces if your original footage is standerd 8bit sRGB? What if you dont know what camera was used?
Thanks for your video. I used the two ACEScct workflows introduced in your video to color grading SLOG3 on the same video file. I found that using the ACEScct setting in the davinci setting page can get better results than the ACES color conversion plugin of the node . There is a clear color difference between the two workflow. At the same time, I also found that the ACEScct restoration workflow does not seem to be able to handle the slog3 shot by fx30 very well. The colorchat video restored by ACEScct has obvious hue turning in the oscilloscope, and some colors also have false color problems. But using davince's color management solution can get better results. I don't know how to share privatefootage to you. If you are interested, I can send you my footage via email.😀
From what i read and learn from the people that made ACES , the workflow for open EXR file is like that, if it was an hand paint texture in Krita or Substance painter and designer it must be ACES CG if it's a render element from Nuke or any 3D software in compositing workflow it must be ACES Cg for computer graphics , except for the Real shoot. now for anything shoot on real RAW and film scan in LOG color profile camera your open EXR sequence must be formated in ACES 2065 to keep all the color dynamic of your scanning or RED, Sony , Panasonic, Arri or Black Magic camera. Thats the way to proceed. If i bring back my render and compositing element to the DP and colorist they should be able to fusion my ACES CG open exr on the real footage in ACES 2065 and have the hand on the final color and contrast look without any loose of dynamic range it simplified the workflow for anybody and let the director and DP colorist have the final word.
Great video! Thanks a lot. I wanted to ask under the hood, if there's a better processing using Davinci WG vs ACES. In terms of performance while grading or playing. Thanks
Do I have to check "use color space aware grading tools"? What does "Apply resize transformations in" mean? Should I disable Tone Mapping for Fusion conversions when working in Fusion? What does "Use 65 points LUT for AMF exporting" mean?
This is amazing, Darren thank you for all!!!. I have a question, If I'm grading on an Apple Studio Monitor my output color space need to be Rec709-A? because when im exporting the videos, when I look at them, they look washed out and not all the contrast and colors that I see on the program or Im doing something wrong on the deliver tab? What do you recommend?
Can’t stop to say thank you. Your videos are always amazing. One question: you use rec 709 gamma 2.4 or 2.2 when you have to choose output color space. I prefer rec 709 - A because I work on a Mac. Is this a correct choice? When I use gamma 2.4 (or 2.2) I saw a lot of difference between my color graded in davinci e the results on a iPad, or Tv Screen or other devices. Thank you for your answer!
Hi darren, I have a problem that is starting to be a real obstacle in my workflow. Davinci often does not save or does not see the changes I have made during work and when I think I have done everything and that the next day or a few hours later I return to export the project I see the colors darker and perhaps even a little more intense, not exactly how I had saved the project. It happened to me during work that the color on the editing page was different from that on the color page. I can not understand why, it is frustrating. I work with the Mac and I have set Re.209-A to be able to export the work exactly with the colors I see when I work in davinci. I have the automatic saving enabled by the way. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks 🙏
Thanks for an informative video. However, if working on an Apple machine and outputting to REC709, using a display referred workflow, is it not better to output to REC709-A? I never see colour tutorials mention much about this, probably because those people are using PCs and don’t know what is?
Thanks for making these videos. Could you please clarify about gamma 2.2 for youtube as I've not heard of this one before anywhere really? And can we use something a bit wider and more modern for web / YT deliverables in 2024 like P3 or rec2020 at all? I've been loathing sRGB / REC709 for 15 years to this very day now.
Hey Darren, Great video. quick question. Im still noobie . So 90% of my footage is coming from my DJI mini 4 pro, could I use ACES as well? or just use the LUT ( D-Log to R709) thanks
** In trying to keep my explanation simple in this beginners guide, my explanation of Display Referred grading in the first few minutes has not come across quite technically correct, however my intention was correct. Display referred grading means to grade AFTER the display profile has been assigned - in my explanation I use an example where you don't assign it and therefore just grade to the display. BOTH my way and the technical way mean that then switching to a different output space after grading is not going to work, so ultimately it's the same result - I just didn't explain very well here. Had I applied a LUT or CST to REC709 and then graded this would be display referred - I skipped that step. However grading with no colour management at all (as in this episode) is still Display referred grading as I demonstrate here. Grading UNDER a display CST, colour management or LUT is Scene referred as I demonstrate correctly here. Apologies for any confusion. Nothing I show in the video is incorrect technique. There is a balance in making beginners guides as to 'how deep to go' in explain something and I appreciate that its very hard to please everyone's level of understanding.. This is why I always clearly label my BEGINNERS episodes.
This is from the DaVinci Resolve MANUAL...
The default DaVinci YRGB color science setting, which is what DaVinci Resolve has always used, relies on what is called “Display Referred” color management. This means that Resolve has no information about how the source media used in the Timeline is supposed to look; you can only setup and judge color accuracy via the calibrated broadcast display you’re outputting to. Essentially, you are the color management, in conjunction with a trustworthy broadcast display that’s been calibrated to ensure accuracy.
This is how I correctly demonstrated in this episode.
Darren, since I can't think of a better place to ask for some clarity, I'll ask it here-- We simply tell DaVinci our output is a REC709 *2.4* space.
However, when researching methodology for accurately calibrating a display, there's much chatter about REC709 computer displays being gamma *2.2*
Where is this discrepancy coming from? Does this hold true within Display P3? Mole hills quickly turn into mountains within forums and the web, so I'm hoping you can provide insight.
One fly in the color ointment seems to corrupt the chain when aiming for purity of process, you know?
Bonus- I'm using the P3 display in my 2019 iMac for my safari into color grading.
@@aroefilms Hi. Its a great question. Broadcast TV specifies a REC709 Gamma 2.4 delivery. This is what you should set your output to in Resolve, however this also needs to match your display. No point setting Gamma 2.4 and viewing it on P3 setting monitor. They need to match! Gamma 2.2 is standard for web/youtube delivery, but if your monitor is calibrated to 2.4 there is no point in changing it. They need to match so recalibrate or switch your monitor to be Gamma 2.2. I hope that helps. Gamma 2.2 is sometimes call sRGB although this is not 100% accurate in some cases, but might be your closest match. All the best, Darren
This was brilliant, Darren. The penny's finally dropped with CSTs here :) I've watched all your previous episodes too....I've no excuses other than an uncompliant small brain. That only took *cough* 12 months.
Thank you, sir. I cannot wait for your next masterclass!
Pleased to hear that Andy. Next Masterclass should be early 2025. Sign up to the free email newsletter link at the bottom of the video description for updates. Wish you all the best with your new found colour management knowledge! Darren.
Best explanation of ACES & RCM used in Resolve on the planet. Full stop. Bravo!
I really appreciate that
Can't believe how much info you cram into such a short space of time!
All coherent, and all informative. Amazing.
Thanks for this. 👍
Perfect timing for this video as i am now trying to deepen my knowledge and understanding of various standards (eventually want to get into commercial and movie/feature work).
But what I really came here to say is thank you. Because of you and a couple of others on youtube, I have been able to start a business in this career space and have my first 2 continual clients. This has given me an opportunity to get out of poverty while still managing my disabilities. Literally saving my life giving out information like this and i absolutely cannot wait to take your masterclass in the future. Thank you so much.
Very helpful video! I would love to see a in depth video dedicated to setting up your project color management settings. The various ways and why you would use one over another.
Great overview Darren. I see you use macOS. Can you please shed some light on tackling the color space on Mac? The videos I found use Display grading, I think they set Timeline color space to Reg 709-A. But I'd like to work in Color Managed workflow with DaVinci WG/Intermediate.
Shall I just set Output color space to Reg 709-A? I did not see you doing anything like that.
I did set Use Mac display color profiles for viewers and Automatically tag Reg 709 clips as Reg 709-A - is that it? Do I need to set the tags on the export settings? Thanks so much!
This would be a great insight from the pro on how it should really be. 709-a or 2.4 in the final cst and export? +1
Like a putting a face (practical) to a voice (theory) you've been hearing for ages
This is a priceless primer to the world of ACES
Much thanks!
I feel less hesitant now to give ACES a try after watching the entire video. Hmm I'll give it a try on an old project to get comfortable with it first!
Amazing episode. Thank you so much for the beautifully explained overview, especially about ACES. Really appreciate it!☺
Hi Chi!! As long as you are aware of the differences its certainly worth playing with. The gamut mapping in ACES is usually nicer - I forgot to mention that in this episode, but we covered it in the masterclass.
@@DarrenMostyn Got it! I’ll play around with it tomorrow. Might take some time until I’m comfortable enough to do a real job in ACES. But I’ll definitely keep you posted once I do🤗 GN
Every video I watch, I learn more and more... And my brain hurts more as well, but in a good way obviously :)
Thank you Darren for these excellent videos. I'm watching from a purely hobbyist/recreational perspective, but your teaching and presentation skills are outstanding. Your content makes me spend my spare time productively rather than getting lost in random content. Keep up the great work!
Thank you very much, appreciated. I put a lot of work into the videos,
Exactly what I expected, another great explanation of a color grading topic so I can understand it the first time I hear it instead of having to work hard to just try to make sense of what the presenter is saying. Keep up the great work, Darren.
Appreciate that comment. Thanks
I’ve just created my Aces workflow node tree now & along with your DWG workflow node tree, I’ve got a choice now without having to change my project settings. Thankyou Darren, great tutorial! 👍😝👌🙌
i can't be thankful enough, awesome job, preparation effort shows in every part, thank you Darren it's fantastic
Glad you enjoyed it
Hi Darren.
I’m a retired scientist and an artist, and I can’t compliment you enough about the quality of your presentations and the value of the information that you provide. EXCELLENT!
I currently use Premiere Pro and plan to learn Resolve before my Adobe subscription renews. Please correct me if I’m wrong, but it appears that Premiere Pro color grading tools are amateurish compared to Resolve. I’ve watched a few videos that compare color grading in each application, and it appears much more difficult to get acceptable results in Premiere Pro.
You’ve demonstrated a broad knowledge of color science and the ability to broadcast stunningly delicious colors. I’m envious your skills.
Thank you for the education. 😊
Thank you Robert, very kind. Yes Premiere is an awkward tool to grade with! Go with Resolve - you won't regret it!
Haha, you saying "logarithmic." Was a major break through for me in understanding a little bit more about t he math of color!
2:00 this is what i love about Darren. showing us how to do without all those hardware, really understanding what noob need to learn. cheers
I forget sometimes but try not to!! Im so used to using the panel!
Brilliant video! As an upcoming colorist, it's good to get such a clear and decisive explanation on what ACES encompasses
Many thanks! Elliot. Appreciated. Enjoy the channel.
Your videos are always a highlight in my learning journey. You have an incredible talent for breaking down complex topics like color management in DaVinci Resolve, making them accessible and understandable. It's clear that you put a lot of thought and effort into your content, and it truly shows. The depth of your explanations and the insights you provide are simply unmatched. I can't thank you enough for sharing your expertise and helping us unlock the full potential of this powerful software. Keep up the amazing work - we're eagerly awaiting your next video!
Thats such a nice messgae to read - thank you - it really means a lot to me. Always Learning! All the best, Darren
Fantastic. A comment on color management in general. I'm a complete amateur (actually a musician) and started messing with image - CGI, After Effects, editing etc - until I learned DaVinci Resolve and did some experiments with color correcting, grading etc. Someone I was doing the music for liked what I did and asked me to work as the colorist for a job. (What??) It was all non-commercial stuff, so I said yes and the first thing I asked myself when I got the footage (all log) was "what do I do with this" - meaning BEFORE starting to grade or correct. No one knew. I asked some friends who work professionally (VFX, colorists etc) and none could even understand my problem. They just start correcting it (display referred grading?). Only after watching your video about color management, I understood the problem. So, strangely, even professional people (here in Brazil at least) don't seem to understand what color space is. They just learn the process without really understanding it, which can be confirmed by looking at some series and ads here, where you can see the look jumping all over the place. There used to be even a "style" here called "francesinha" - little french - which is a greenish log look, if you can believe that. An error turned into a style. So, thank you so much for explaining so well what should be obvious, ha ha. Cheers.
I had the same problem in my country. Just stay on this channel if you need learn more or how to build your look in the right way
@@difficsambalao For sure.
Im so pleased to read your detailed comment and the fact you understand where i'm coming from means a lot! Good luck in your career path - sounds like you'll go far! All the best, Darren
@@DarrenMostyn Thanks, Darren. Not much of a career, only one job, and I'm old already (60) but it's all good. Here the VFX mafias won't let you in. Tried for years and nothing, but this one job is good enough. I do the music and the color correction, chroma key etc. It's already a lot. All the best to you, sir.
Thank you for this one! The last bit was particularly useful for me. I am a total beginner in colour management, using footage that was recorded on a Canon EOS 7D back in 2014. So, that's all the info I had, with no connection to the person who filmed the footage, and no idea what Input Colour Space or Gamma was used. In any case, this helped me get a general idea of where to start with this kind of footage. Much appreciated!
Glad it was helpful! - I get asked that question a lot so it was nice to finally address it in a video!
Really amazing stuff you're putting out there. You've literally saved me (and others I dare say...) quite a few hours working through various half baked truths and misunderstandings that are out there on the internet. Kudos to you sir, you are one hell of a teacher!
Thank you, appreciated.
Thank you Darren for making the complex terminology and process super easy to understand 😊😊😊
you are welcome.
Fantastic video, Darren. You're so thorough yet succinct. Brilliant!
Glad you liked it!
Thanks for another excellent video Darren. I love the CST workflow you use throughout your other videos and it's great to see this can also be applied for ACES too!
Glad you like them! Thanks Rory.
A great solution with the ACES color space. But, I'm still working in the DWG space However, ACES has a number of advantages when working with both a large dynamic range of colors and compatibility with other production facilities. I consider ACES to be the future, as it accurately interprets color with greater coverage and greater compatibility
But what about shifts after exports? I never get what i made in davinci except i set everything to rec709A. It would be so amazing if you could to a video about that topic - specially for us Mac users 🙌
Is there any difference when you open in quicktime vs VLC?
@@ItzDaiz depends on the settings and that's the problem
It seems you’re already doing it right.
But I agree, get this level of explanation would be great.
Try this as well. Change your display preset to hdtv. Go into fine tuning and turn off system gamma boost and dial in your preferred screen brightness. Then just grade in resolve using standard rec709 2.4. when you render, tag your video 709/709.
@@Mintyseden it's just a workaround, but i want a solution 🙈
This was excellent as usual. I have been wanting to dive into Aces to broaden my knowledge. Now not as afraid as I was. Cheers!!!
Glad it was helpful!
wow, you are really educating the next generation of filmmakers. Bless your soul🙌
Appreciate this. Thanks
As a slow learner. I love your explanation. Very very informative. Thank you.
Trying my best! Thanks
Superb video and I am so relieved that my « guessing game technique » when the production is not knowing the camera log they shot with, is mentioned in this video 😂
I feel less alone, thank you Darren !
Hey Chloe!! Yes, Blackmagic cameras is always the 'guessing game' of which profile to use!! Look forward to seeing you in September!!
I wish I could give a thousand likes. Thank you for sharing your vast expertise with us
This is great. Thank you. I'm already using this workflow that you talk about at the end, but it's good to know I'm working right.
reassusrance can often be as good as new advice! All the best, Darren
What a great video! Thank you - I learnt tonnes! Quick question (if that's ok). You mentioned 2.2 is for Web and 2.4 is for broadcast- what technically would be wrong with uploading a 2.4 to, say, CZcams or Vimeo? Or another way of putting it - what is the difference between 2.2 and 2.4? Thank you - and more videos for 'dummies' please - it really helps 'join the dots' for a much better understanding. Bravo! :)
Thank you Darren, that was very helpful! My biggest thumbs up👍
Thanks Peter
Very clear explanation, thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for this incredibly informative and interesting explanation of ACES. I have played with ACES a little (I mostly use DWG) but this will help me in future projects when I decide to go down the ACES path. I can see some occasions where the higher contrast baseline of ACES might be useful. Thanks again, it was a great session.
You're very welcome!
Great tutorial, good explanation of the difference between DWG and Aces 😎
Great explanation Darren, I enjoyed watching it 😃 You have to do another Masterclass soon! The last one was fantastic and lots was learnt from it.
Glad you enjoyed it! Next Masterclass will be early 2025 due to my schedule. Thanks Mark.
The Best Teacher in Color Grading!
Appreciated. Thank you.
That was a lot, gotta rewatch a few times. Thanks.
Hope it was helpful!
@@DarrenMostyn Very!!!!
great explanation Darren you are always very precise thanks
Thanks
What a phenomenal guide!
Could you also make a video on how to grade and export (without color shift (rec.2020/DCI-P3)) in aces/DWG as the tools behave quite differently compared to display referred grading.
Thanks, Darren. That was priceless!
Thank you Ruben - good to hear from you again! Hope you are well my friend.
I didn't speak English and do not understand properly but i you help me very well in grading ❤
Great video - thanks Darren!
Glad you enjoyed it
Brilliant session! Much appreciated!
thanks
Very well explained. Compressed and clear. 👌
Glad it was helpful!
Great video mate. Really helped!
Glad it helped
Thanks Darren, that was very informative. I understand color spaces better now.
I consider myself an advanced freelance colorist, but most of my experience is with student films and music videos shot in RAW or Prores 422 and delivered in Rec.709, even for theatrical releases. I'm concerned about future projects that require Rec.2020, P3, or HDR delivery.
I've learned so much from your videos and they've significantly improved my color grading skills. I would really appreciate it if you could make a video explaining these color spaces and the technical considerations for working with them. This would help me prepare for such projects.
All noted. Thanks, Darren
Thank you for another very useful video.
If your output is REC709 and your monitor is also REC709, how do you visualize and color-grade accurately anything outside of the REC709 color space?
You grade under the node or colour management so you SEE REC709 but grade in larger colour space. Think of it like a 'filter' on the output.
Daren, thank you for excellent lesson.
Would love to see a lesson from you which explains the end-to-end flow for HDR videos.
Especially case where we start from S-Log3/S-Gammut3 and end up having HDR video uploaded on CZcams.
noted. Thanks
Interesting stuff. Thanks for sharing
Glad you enjoyed it
Great stuff as always. Thank you very much!
My pleasure!
Very good episode! very well explained. Thanks for this video. If you allow me, I would love to see how HDR works, I think it would be a good episode to watch. Thank you so much
This is awesome, thanks for this Episode, learned a lot
Glad you enjoyed it!
New to DR and color correction/grading ... while you lose me at times (enunciation, cadence and terminology) as I have no experience with any of these color profiles, I did get the fundamentals for setting the input color space and consider what the output color space should be and even how to set up a workflow among color spaces. I'm nowhere near fully understanding color management, but this start was really good, thank you, Darren!
PS: Feel a bit overwhelmed at present as there's a whole science behind optics and color and sound, not to mention multiple programs to learn. But it's fascinating esp at the right pace!
take it one step at a time. Its a huge program. Try my beginners playlist out too. All the best. czcams.com/play/PL6VNHhfsVYJawp385IIyLemQL_ZBzgN_5.html
@@DarrenMostyn .. thank you for the playlist, that's very thoughtful. I'm pacing my learning so that I can enjoy the journey! 😎
Thanks D. Great insight as always.
Pretty dense and takes time to absorb but I always enjoy your videos.
Glad you like them!
as always a very understandable explanation .
Many thanks!
Definitely enjoyed this one
fantastic explanation! would love to see how to grade and deliver for youtube in hdr. im already doing it with nikon nraw nlog footage but im pretty sure im not doing it correctly.
Masterfully explained as always! I’ve only worked in aces years ago and had no idea about the AP0->AP1->AP0 background process 😮 Can you recommend some article to nerd further on the subject?
ACES Central has everything you'll ever need.
Very nice video. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you very much!
Brilliant content as always!
Glad you enjoyed it
Excellent video
Glad you liked it
Hi Darren, @DarrenMostyn
I really enjoy your videos, but I'm often a bit unsure about the output gamma settings. I notice you almost always set it to 2.4, and I assume that's because you're delivering for broadcast and your monitor is calibrated to gamma 2.4.
But what do you do when you need to deliver for both broadcast and web?
Do you set the output gamma to 2.4 and 2.2 respectively when exporting? And do you switch your monitor back and forth between 2.2 and 2.4?
I assume that if you choose gamma 2.2 and are delivering for web, you won't see the result correctly on your gamma 2.4 monitor, right?
Correct. I switch my monitor to calibrated 2.2 for web and deliver 2.2. 2.4 is for broadcast and i switch my monitor to 2.4 - hope that helps.
Hi Darren, got a question: In the section where you grade in a CST workflow, you set your timeline color space to DWG. Yet you go into a ACES color space with the transforms. Wouldn't that mean that your tools are now assuming DWG and not the ACES that you transformed to? You do set the color space correctly in the film look creator, but you would have to map every node between the IDT and ODT like that manually? Shouldn't the timeline color space then be ACES and not DWG?
Correct - even when doing color management manually with CSTs, one should set their working color space correctly in the project/timeline settings as it affects what color space aware tools expect.
because the first CST and the last CST are ACES then the tools behave like DWG however it wont affect the ACES workflow. You could of course set the timeline to anything you like. I like how the tools behave in DWG but your way would also work. and yes probably a better workflow. However if Im doing that I might aswell jsut set colour mamangement to ACES globally. I like the DWG baehaviour of the tools more than ACERS. Hope that helps.
As always a great video Darren, you always manage that fine line of including beginnings and taking us to quite an advance position in an easy to follow style. One question, no worries if it’s missed, Timelines, are they always Rec.709? Can it be changed?
you cant change TIMELINE colour space after youve started grading without potentially changing your grades.
What an absolutely stellar video. 👌
Glad you enjoyed it!
Waiting from Mumbai, India ❤
Incredible job.
thank you
Hi - this is the right content!
thanks nice tutorial
Glad you liked it
Hey Darren, great video as always! I have a question though:
What’s the reason to use ACES transform instead of CST? I see that CST has transforms for ACES as well. Am I missing something? The reason I’m asking is because ACES transform has WAY less source options than CST.
Always enjoy your episodes! When you went to RCM, you selected the Input Color Space and the the Canon Log2. But I have noticed an Apple Log option. What is that? Curious minds want to know.
for iphone apple log shooting.
@@DarrenMostyn I don't see log on my iPhone 13 Pro Max. 🙄
Best of the Best 👍
THANK YOU
Speaking of Color Management…. How long were you in the sun?? You appear fairly sunburnt lol.
Live your tutorials. Have helped me so much. Thank you.
Ive just returned from a holiday in Sicily with my two daughters. It was averaging 35 degrees which is harsh for a colourist!! Not burnt, just glowing!! I am very careful to apply lots of suncream! Glad you enjoying the tutorials anyway! Im off to Ibiza in a few weeks so expect me to look even redder soon!! Im nowhere near hitting the skin tone line on the vectorscopes right now!! All the best, Darren
Great tutorial, thank you! Appreciate your work!
You're very welcome!
Thank you Thank you Thank you!
You are so welcome!
Thanks yet again for another great video. You said Gamma 2.4 is for broadcast and 2.2 is for the web so when do you use 2.6?
P3/DCI projection
Thank you for replying!
Great video, thanks for putting this together. How do you create exr sequences for vfx in aces if your original footage is standerd 8bit sRGB? What if you dont know what camera was used?
Thanks for your video. I used the two ACEScct workflows introduced in your video to color grading SLOG3 on the same video file. I found that using the ACEScct setting in the davinci setting page can get better results than the ACES color conversion plugin of the node . There is a clear color difference between the two workflow. At the same time, I also found that the ACEScct restoration workflow does not seem to be able to handle the slog3 shot by fx30 very well. The colorchat video restored by ACEScct has obvious hue turning in the oscilloscope, and some colors also have false color problems. But using davince's color management solution can get better results. I don't know how to share privatefootage to you. If you are interested, I can send you my footage via email.😀
Excellent, not to say brilliant
Thank you
From what i read and learn from the people that made ACES , the workflow for open EXR file is like that, if it was an hand paint texture in Krita or Substance painter and designer it must be ACES CG if it's a render element from Nuke or any 3D software in compositing workflow it must be ACES Cg for computer graphics , except for the Real shoot. now for anything shoot on real RAW and film scan in LOG color profile camera your open EXR sequence must be formated in ACES 2065 to keep all the color dynamic of your scanning or RED, Sony , Panasonic, Arri or Black Magic camera. Thats the way to proceed. If i bring back my render and compositing element to the DP and colorist they should be able to fusion my ACES CG open exr on the real footage in ACES 2065 and have the hand on the final color and contrast look without any loose of dynamic range it simplified the workflow for anybody and let the director and DP colorist have the final word.
Excellent 👍
Thank you
Darren please next tutorial should be exporting for Tv broadcast in DR
your content is awesome - thx
I appreciate that! Thank you.
Great video! Thanks a lot. I wanted to ask under the hood, if there's a better processing using Davinci WG vs ACES. In terms of performance while grading or playing. Thanks
No. Performance is the same.
Do I have to check "use color space aware grading tools"? What does "Apply resize transformations in" mean? Should I disable Tone Mapping for Fusion conversions when working in Fusion? What does "Use 65 points LUT for AMF exporting" mean?
This is amazing, Darren thank you for all!!!. I have a question, If I'm grading on an Apple Studio Monitor my output color space need to be Rec709-A? because when im exporting the videos, when I look at them, they look washed out and not all the contrast and colors that I see on the program or Im doing something wrong on the deliver tab? What do you recommend?
Can’t stop to say thank you. Your videos are always amazing. One question: you use rec 709 gamma 2.4 or 2.2 when you have to choose output color space. I prefer rec 709 - A because I work on a Mac. Is this a correct choice? When I use gamma 2.4 (or 2.2) I saw a lot of difference between my color graded in davinci e the results on a iPad, or Tv Screen or other devices. Thank you for your answer!
Thanks - it really depends what you want to watch it on. My youtube videos I export 2.2.
@@DarrenMostyn thank you again. Make some experimenting will see
Hey Darren how often do you work in Dolby Vision? Can you do a video on working in Dolby Vision?
Its on my list of videos to make.
Hi darren, I have a problem that is starting to be a real obstacle in my workflow. Davinci often does not save or does not see the changes I have made during work and when I think I have done everything and that the next day or a few hours later I return to export the project I see the colors darker and perhaps even a little more intense, not exactly how I had saved the project. It happened to me during work that the color on the editing page was different from that on the color page. I can not understand why, it is frustrating. I work with the Mac and I have set Re.209-A to be able to export the work exactly with the colors I see when I work in davinci. I have the automatic saving enabled by the way. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks 🙏
Thanks for an informative video. However, if working on an Apple machine and outputting to REC709, using a display referred workflow, is it not better to output to REC709-A? I never see colour tutorials mention much about this, probably because those people are using PCs and don’t know what is?
Thanks for making these videos. Could you please clarify about gamma 2.2 for youtube as I've not heard of this one before anywhere really? And can we use something a bit wider and more modern for web / YT deliverables in 2024 like P3 or rec2020 at all? I've been loathing sRGB / REC709 for 15 years to this very day now.
Waiting from Kerala, India
Mee too broo.. ഡിസ്കോർഡിൽ ഇൻഡോ?
@@ramanandh1261 അത് എന്താണ് എന്ന് പറയാമോ bro
@@Joseya_Pappachan അത് ആപ്പ് ആണ്, ചാറ്റ് ചെയ്യാൻ. പ്ലേസ്റ്റോറിൽ ചെക്ക് ചെയ്യൂ
Hey Darren, Great video. quick question. Im still noobie . So 90% of my footage is coming from my DJI mini 4 pro, could I use ACES as well? or just use the LUT ( D-Log to R709) thanks
no need t use ACES but it will work yes. i would stay out of ACES unless you need to IMO. Hope that helps. darren
Thanks.