DaVinci Resolve Split Toning: Traditional vs. Pro Techniques

Chef Odd

Summary:

The video demonstrates how to perform split toning in DaVinci Resolve using both traditional methods and a "pro" technique involving a third-party tool. The traditional method involves manually adjusting custom curves to introduce color into the highlights and shadows, a time-consuming and precise process. The pro method utilizes a DCTL plugin called Look DNA to quickly apply film-like color grades and split toning effects, significantly speeding up the workflow. The video compares the speed and flexibility of the two methods, showcasing the efficiency of the plugin.

Introduction [00:00:00]

• The video introduces the topic of split toning and promises to show both a basic and a professional way to achieve the effect in DaVinci Resolve.
• The presenter mentions using custom curves and a Color Warper.

Traditional Split Toning with Custom Curves [00:01:12]

• Initial setup: Applying Input Device Transform (IDT) and Output Device Transform (ODT) to the footage.
  • The footage is converted from ARI to DaVinci Wide Gamut with an output of Rec 709 gamma 2.4.
• Basic Corrections
  • Exposure adjustment.
  • Neutralizing the white balance to correct the warmth in the original image.
  • Adjusting saturation using the HSV node.
• Film Grain Application
  • The video uses the Film Look Creator with the color disabled to apply 35mm grain and halation.
• Detailed Split Toning Using Custom Curves
  • The presenter emphasizes the importance and difficulty of mastering custom curves.
  • Adjustments are made to the luma, red, green, and blue channels to inject color into the shadows and highlights, creating the split toning effect.
  • Protecting skin tones is a priority while applying color effects.
  • A new node is created to demonstrate the custom curve process from scratch.

Problems With the Traditional Method [00:04:16]

• The video highlights the issues with using custom curves.
• The presenter roleplays someone who is new to split toning using curves, and shows how the manual technique is a guessing game that can take hours.

Refining the Grade and Using Layer Mixer [00:07:41]

• The presenter uses the layer mixer, showing pop on the skin with the gamma being lifted through the magic mask.
• Highlights can be softened to feel more 3D.

Pro Split Toning with Look DNA Plugin [00:10:30]

• Introduction to the plugin Look DNA
  • A free demo of the plugin is offered.
• Applying a Film Stock Preset
  • The presenter selects the Fuji 3513 preset to emulate the characteristics of Fuji film.
• Adjusting Contrast and Density
  • Adjustments are made to mid-contrast and black knit point to soften the image and add density to the darker regions.
• Color Adjustments and Highlight Control
  • The presenter adjusts undertones and highlight sliders to achieve the desired split toning look.
  • The presenter recommends creating tastes and shares that the colors shouldn't feel unnatural.
• Using the Compress Tab
  • The presenter adds green and blue tonality, achieving a cyan look.