Don’t have DaVinci Resolve? Here are 8 ways to go about color grading in After Effects!

It’s no secret that After Effects is one of the best animation softwares in the world, but did you know it also has some extremely powerful color grading features built right in? In the following post, we’ll take a look at 8 color grading tutorials that show us how to create cinematic titles in After Effects.

1. Cinematic Color Correction / Color Grading

Created By: Sam’s Creative Toolbox

If you’re looking to give your footage a non-destructive teal overlay like those found in action movies, then this tutorial is a great place to start. Learn how to create a cinematic color grade using the Color Finesse plugin built into After Effects.

2. How to Color Correct/Grade in After Effects!

Created By: braproductions

This is another good example of how to create stylistic color grades inside of After Effects. In this tutorial, braproductions shows us how to use the Levels and Curves effect to create a quick color grade in After Effects. Specifically, this tutorial shows us how to bring up the black limit of RGB channels using the Levels effect.

3. Cross Process Color Grading

Created By: Evan Abrams

Blending modes are incredibly useful when it comes to color grading. In this awesome tutorial from Evan Abrams, we’ll take a look at how to create a subtle color grade in After Effects. The tutorial mixes effects with blending modes to create a sepia-like effect.

4. Color Correction Tutorial in Photoshop & After Effects

Created By: Michael DeVowe

Did you know that you can color correct footage in Photoshop? This little-known feature has been around for a while and, though it’s not convenient, it is a good option for those who may not be familiar with color grading in After Effects. The following tutorial covers how to color grade in both Photoshop and After Effects.

5. Advanced Color Grading in Adobe After Effects

Created By: VisionColor

A good color grade takes a lot of time and talent, that’s why there are people who exclusively color footage for a living. This tutorial by VisionColor shows us how to create an orange and teal style color grade in After Effects. You’ll be surprised to see the number of layers it takes to get to the end result.

6. How to Color Grade Your Cinematography with After Effects

Created By: BigLeagueFilmSchool

One way to create a stylistic look in After Effects is to crush the low-lights in your image. In doing so, you will create a contrasted style look. The following tutorial shows us how it’s done.

7. ‘Film Look’ – Bleach Bypass Effect and Secondary Color Correction

Created By: Boss Tutorials

If you want to create a dream-like bleach bypass look, check out the following tutorial. The tutorial shows us how to use the mask tool to create vignettes and showcases the power of the overlay tool.

8. Color Correction in After Effects

Created By: PRETTY PEOPLE PICTURES

In this tutorial from Pretty People Pictures we’ll take a look at how to use layers and masks to create stylistic grades. This technique is perfect for landscape or wildlife footage.

Want to learn more about Color Grading in After Effects? Check out a few of the following posts:

Have any tips for color grading in After Effects? Share in the comments below.