We should first clarify the definitions of primary and secondary grading in PS.
Primary grading usually refers to the basic color and ** adjustments made to an image to correct some common problems such as white balance, **excessive or under-grading, etc.). This is a very useful tool when dealing with large volumes, especially for batch processing, such as weddings or products.
Secondary grading, on the other hand, is a more detailed color adjustment based on the primary grading to achieve a specific style or atmosphere.
There are seven main differences between the two, which are explained as follows:
1.The range of adjustments is different
Primary grading mainly makes global adjustments, including brightness, contrast, color temperature, hue, etc. Whereas, secondary grading makes more local adjustments to highlight or alter specific parts of the image.
2.Color correction differences
Primary grading focuses on correcting overall color deviations, such as white balance issues. Secondary grading works more deeply with color, such as color separation, tone mapping, and more to achieve complex effects.
3.Handling of **
Primary grading mainly solves the problem of excessive or insufficient color, ensuring that image details are visible. Secondary grading may be further fine-tuned as needed to enhance or diminish the light and shadow effects in certain areas.
4.Saturation adjustments
Primary grading may adjust the overall saturation of the image to make the colors more vivid or natural. Secondary grading, on the other hand, allows for finer control of the saturation of different colors or areas for richer color expression.
5.Contrast and gradation
Primary grading optimizes the contrast between light and dark in an image by adjusting the contrast. Secondary grading may further leverage the contrast tool to enhance the depth and dimensionality of the image.
6.Stylized effects
Primary grading focuses primarily on basic adjustments and does not involve stylized effects. And secondary color grading is a key step in achieving various stylized effects, such as cinematic tones, retro style, black and white effects, etc.
7.Use of tools and techniques
Primary grading primarily uses basic adjustment tools and techniques. Secondary grading may involve more advanced tools and techniques, such as curve adjustments, color lookup tables (LUTs), advanced blending modes, and more.
In summary, there are clear differences between primary and secondary grading in terms of adjustment range, color correction, processing, saturation, contrast, stylization effects, and tool usage. Mastering these differences allows for more accurate application of color grading techniques to create high-quality work that looks as intended.