Mastering DaVinci Resolve Color Management: The Cheat Sheet Method

Updated at: 27/06/2025

DaVinci Resolve's color grading power can be intimidating, but mastering its color management doesn't require years of study. This cheat sheet method simplifies the process, breaking down complex concepts into easy-to-follow steps. Learn to navigate color spaces, manage LUTs, and achieve consistent, professional-looking results, regardless of your experience level. Get ready to unlock your color grading potential – quickly and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Initial Setup

    • Open DaVinci Resolve and navigate to Project Settings > Color Management.
    • Set Color Science to DaVinci YRGB Color Managed.
    • Turn off Automatic Color Management.
    • Set Color Processing Mode to Custom.
    Set Color Processing Mode to Custom. Set Color Processing Mode to Custom. Set Color Processing Mode to Custom.
    Initial Setup

  2. Constant Project Settings

    • Set Timeline Color Space to DaVinci Wide Gamut Intermediate.
    • Set Timeline Working Luminance to Custom 10000.
    • Set Output Color Space to Rec.709 Gamma 2.4 (or Rec.709 Gamma 2.2 for laptop/monitor grading).
    • Set Input DRT to None.
    Set Input DRT to None. Set Input DRT to None. Set Input DRT to None. Set Input DRT to None.
    Constant Project Settings
    • Set Output DRT to Luminance Mapping (experiment with other options if needed).
    Set Output DRT to Luminance Mapping (experiment with other options if needed).
    Constant Project Settings

  3. Project-Specific Setting

    • Set Input Color Space based on the majority of your footage's color space (this is the only setting that changes per project).
    Set Input Color Space based on the majority of your footage's color space (this is the only setting that changes per project).
    Project-Specific Setting

  4. Finalize and Save

    • Save your project settings.
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Tips

  • Set up color management *before* you begin grading to avoid workflow issues.
  • Double-check that Resolve isn't overriding your project settings and automatically setting input color spaces.
  • Raw camera formats (R3D, BRAW, ARRI RAW, etc.) don't require input color space settings; Resolve handles them automatically.
  • If the footage's color space is unknown, use the provided flowchart to systematically test common color spaces until you find the best fit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Input Color Space

Reason: Failing to set the correct input color space leads to inaccurate colors throughout the grading process, resulting in a final deliverable that doesn't match the source material.
Solution: Always match the input color space in DaVinci Resolve to the color space of your source footage (e.g., Rec.709, DCI-P3).

2. Overlooking Output Color Space

Reason: Neglecting to set the correct output color space can lead to clipping, color shifts, or inaccurate colors when the final project is viewed on different devices or platforms.
Solution: Set your output color space in DaVinci Resolve to match the intended display or delivery platform (e.g., Rec.709 for web, P3-DCI for cinema).

FAQs

What is the best color space to work in for DaVinci Resolve?
There's no single 'best' color space, it depends on your project. For most projects, DaVinci YRGB is a great starting point as it offers a wide gamut and is well-suited to HDR and SDR workflows. Rec.709 is a solid choice for standard dynamic range projects. Consider your final output destination when choosing.
How do I avoid color inconsistencies between different parts of my project (e.g., different shots, footage from different cameras)?
Consistent color management relies on establishing a baseline. Start by using a consistent color space throughout your project. Utilize scopes (vectorscope, waveform) to compare shots and match them visually. LUTs (Look Up Tables) can also help to quickly apply consistent color grades across different clips. Pay close attention to your white balance settings.