The Key Differences Between Outside, Parallel, and Layer Nodes in DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve offers a range of node types that allow you to manage and manipulate color grading and effects with precision.
Among these, Outside Nodes, Parallel Nodes, and Layer Nodes each have distinct purposes, giving you different approaches to achieve the look you want. In this blog, we’ll break down the differences between these nodes, explore their use cases, and help you understand how to incorporate them into your color grading workflow effectively.
How to Use Outside, Parallel, and Layer Nodes in DaVinci Resolve
In DaVinci Resolve, the Outside Node, Parallel Node, and Layer Node serve distinct purposes, each offering different ways to manage and manipulate the color grading and effects. Here’s a breakdown of their differences and use cases:
1. Outside Node
What it does: An Outside Node automatically creates a mask or key based on the previous node’s selection but applies the effect to the inverse of that selection.
Use Case: If you’ve isolated a subject using a window or qualifier in one node and you want to affect everything except that subject in the next node, you use an Outside Node. For example, you could desaturate the background while keeping the subject in full color.
2. Parallel Node
What it does: Parallel Nodes allow you to create multiple color corrections or effects simultaneously on different branches that are then combined. Unlike Serial Nodes, where one node feeds into the next, Parallel Nodes operate independently from each other.
Use Case: When you need to apply several corrections or effects to different parts of the image at the same time, without them affecting one another. For example, you might want to adjust the shadows in one node and the highlights in another, and then combine them to see the overall effect.
3. Layer Node
What it does: A Layer Node lets you stack different corrections or effects on top of each other, similar to layers in Photoshop. The top layer can affect the visibility of the layers beneath it based on the blend mode you choose.
Use Case: Use Layer Nodes when you need complex blending between different adjustments. For instance, you might have a color grade on one layer and a vignette on another, using a blend mode to softly merge them. This is ideal for creative effects where you want more control over how different corrections interact.
Summary of Use Cases:
Outside Node: Target everything outside a selection.
Parallel Node: Apply independent adjustments simultaneously.
Layer Node: Stack and blend multiple adjustments for creative effects.
Each of these nodes offers a unique way to approach complex color grading or effects tasks, giving you greater flexibility depending on the look you’re trying to achieve.
