TL;DR: Master Lightroom color grading by using the Color Mixer (HSL) to adjust individual hues, then refine shadows, midtones, and highlights with Color Grading wheels. Apply these tools in order, using masks for precision and the histogram to avoid clipping.
Step 1: Start with White Balance and Exposure
Before any creative color work, correct the basics. Set white balance using the Temp and Tint sliders, then adjust Exposure, Contrast, Highlights, and Shadows. A neutral base ensures your grading looks intentional, not corrective.
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Step 2: Open the Color Mixer (HSL)
In the Develop module, go to the Color Mixer panel. Select “All” to see Hue, Saturation, and Luminance for eight color ranges. Click a range — say, Orange — and drag Saturation up slightly to warm skin tones. Use Luminance to darken or brighten specific colors without affecting others.
Step 3: Use Color Grading Wheels
Scroll to the Color Grading panel. You’ll find three wheels: Shadows, Midtones, and Highlights, plus a Global wheel. Drag the dot inside a wheel toward a color to tint that tonal range. Example: push Shadows toward Blue and Highlights toward Orange for a classic cinematic split-tone. Keep Blending and Balance near default first; adjust later for subtle transitions.
Step 4: Refine with Masks and Calibration
Use the Masking tool (press M) to apply color grading to specific areas — like warming only the sky. Finally, visit the Calibration panel. Nudge Red, Green, and Blue Primaries to shift overall color character. Small moves (under 10 points) go a long way.
Tips for Better Results
Work in a dark room with a calibrated monitor. Toggle the Y key to see before/after. Avoid over-saturating; use the histogram to prevent color clipping. Save your favorite grade as a preset for consistency.
FAQ
Q: Can I color grade in Lightroom Mobile?
A: Yes. The Color Mixer and Color Grading panels exist in the mobile app under the Color tab, though wheels are simplified to sliders.
Q: What’s the difference between HSL and Color Grading?
A: HSL targets specific colors (e.g., all blues). Color Grading targets tonal ranges (shadows, midtones, highlights) regardless of hue.
Q: How do I avoid muddy colors?
A: Limit yourself to two or three dominant hues, reduce saturation in conflicting colors, and check the histogram for clipping.
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