Color Grading Secrets: From RAW to Radiant

Great color begins at capture. Expose to protect highlights, aim for consistent white balance, and choose a camera profile that suits your style. In the edit, think of grading as seasoning: a little goes a long way, and balance matters more than novelty.

I start with global corrections. A gentle S-curve adds structure, while small HSL nudges refine palette. I maintain believable skin tones by checking hue values and avoiding over-saturated oranges. Split toning can add atmosphere, but I keep the difference between shadows and highlights subtle to avoid color clashes.

• Protect highlights and keep midtones luminous
• Favor gentle curves over heavy contrast sliders
• Target specific hues instead of global saturation

Stylization has its place, yet timeless edits rarely shout. By prioritizing harmony and restraint, photos feel fresh today and still relevant tomorrow. The goal isn’t to mimic a preset; it’s to reveal what the image already wants to be.