Lecture Notes: Color Management in DaVinci Resolve and ACES

Introduction

• Focus on color management using DaVinci Resolve and ACES (Academy Color Encoding System).
• Explanation of when and why to use each system.
• Targeted at both beginners and advanced users.

Basic Concepts

Display Referred vs Scene Referred Grading

• Display Referred Grading: Manual grading focused on how the image appears on the display.
  • Example: Adjusting contrast and saturation manually.
• Scene Referred Grading: Uses camera manufacturer's specs (LUTs) for a technical starting point.
  • Example: Using ARRI Alexa LUTs to convert Log C to Rec. 709.

Technical Demonstration

Using LUTs

• LUTs (Look-Up Tables) can fix output to specific formats but limit flexibility in output (e.g., HDR, P3).

Color Space Transform in DaVinci Resolve

• Drag and drop Color Space Transform effect.
• Input and output specifications for color space.
  • Example: ARRI Wide Gamut 3 to Rec. 709.

Advanced Color Management

Working with Multiple Camera Formats

• Use Color Space Transforms for different cameras (e.g., RED, ARRI, Canon, Blackmagic).
• Ensures different camera footage matches in color space.

DaVinci Resolve Color Management Options

• DaVinci YRGB: Not color managed unless using color space transforms or LUTs.
• ACES CC vs ACES CCT:
  • ACES CC: Original version with a lower shadow point.
  • ACES CCT: Slightly lifted toe, preferred by most professionals.

Understanding ACES

• Standardizes color space across different platforms.
• Offers ultra-wide gamut and dynamic range (AP0 and AP1 spaces).
• All footage transforms to AP0, then to AP1 for grading, back to AP0, and finally to display color space.

Comparing ACES and DaVinci Resolve Color Management

ACES

• Industry standard; better for interoperability.
• Open-source, required by broadcasters like Netflix.
• Easier to use with fewer options.

DaVinci Resolve

• More customizable and scalable.
• Allows choosing working color space, e.g., DaVinci Wide Gamut.
• Familiar control set for DaVinci users.

Practical Application

Creating Custom Workflows

• Possible to use DaVinci Resolve to emulate ACES workflow without switching to ACES color management.
• Use ACES Transform nodes.

Handling Unknown Source Material

• Attempt to identify the camera source via filename or metadata.
• If unknown, default to Rec. 709 for initial grading.

Conclusion

• Understanding color management systems enhances grading precision and interoperability.
• ACES vs Resolve: Choose based on project requirements and personal preference.
• Encourages subscription to the channel for further learning.