Color grade music videos: the basics that matter
Good color is 80 percent contrast and balance. Here is the simple chain that works every time.
The simple chain
Exposure first, white balance second, contrast third, saturation last. Fix problems before adding style. Most bad grades skip straight to the look.
Match all your shots before you stylize anything. Consistency beats creativity in the grade.
Find your look
Pick two reference frames from videos you love. Match their skin tones and contrast, not their exact colors. Your footage is different, honor that.
Teal shadows and warm highlights work because they flatter skin. Start there, develop taste later.
Grade for the platform
Phone screens crush shadows. Lift your blacks slightly for social delivery. What looks moody on a monitor looks muddy on a phone.
Next step: grade your next video with only the four step chain before touching any creative LUT.
Calibrate your monitor
Grade on a calibrated display or your colors will lie to you. Phone screens vary wildly, so check on two devices minimum.
Take breaks every hour. Tired eyes push saturation and contrast too far. Fresh eyes grade better.
Your Monday action plan
Download DaVinci Resolve free and import your last project. Practice the four step chain: exposure, balance, contrast, saturation.
Grade one old video using only those four steps. Compare it to your original grade.
Sources and further reading
Sources were checked for this article. Tool features, prices and availability can change. Product claims are attributed to their publishers.
