How do I split the screen to compare before and after color changes in Premiere Pro?
March 11, 2026 · caitlin
Splitting the screen to compare before and after color changes in Premiere Pro is a straightforward process that helps you visualize your grading progress. You can achieve this using the Comparison View feature within the Lumetri Color panel, allowing for side-by-side or wipe comparisons. This technique is invaluable for color correction and grading to ensure subtle adjustments are effective.
Mastering Before & After Color Comparisons in Premiere Pro
Visualizing the impact of your color grading is crucial for achieving the desired look in your video projects. Premiere Pro offers powerful tools to help you compare your original footage with your color-corrected version directly within the editing interface. This allows for real-time feedback and informed decision-making throughout the grading process.
Understanding Premiere Pro’s Comparison View
The Comparison View is the primary tool for this task. It’s integrated into the Lumetri Color panel, making it easily accessible while you’re working on your color grades. This feature is designed to streamline the workflow for editors and colorists alike.
- Purpose: To display two video frames side-by-side or with a movable split.
- Benefit: Enables direct comparison of the original (before) and modified (after) footage.
- Accessibility: Found within the Lumetri Color panel.
This feature is essential for anyone serious about achieving professional color grades. It prevents you from losing track of the original look or over-editing your footage.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting Up Your Split Screen Comparison
Follow these steps to set up your before and after comparison in Premiere Pro. This process is designed to be intuitive, even for those new to color grading.
- Open the Lumetri Color Panel: Navigate to
Window > Lumetri Colorto open the panel. If you don’t see it, you might need to switch to the "Color" workspace (Window > Workspaces > Color). - Locate the Comparison View: Within the Lumetri Color panel, you’ll find a section labeled "Comparison."
- Select Your Comparison Method:
- None: Disables the comparison view.
- Side by Side: Displays the original frame and the current frame next to each other.
- Wipe: Allows you to drag a line across the frame to reveal the original or graded footage.
- Choose Your "Before" Frame:
- From Source: Uses the original, uncolored clip from your project bin. This is ideal for comparing against your entire graded sequence.
- From Media: Uses the original frame of the clip currently on your timeline. This is useful for comparing specific moments within a clip.
- From Clip: Uses the original frame of the clip currently selected in your timeline. This is the most common and practical option for most grading tasks.
- Adjust the Wipe (if applicable): If you chose "Wipe," a slider will appear. Drag this slider left or right to reveal more of the original or graded footage. You can also click and drag the dividing line directly on the Program Monitor.
This setup ensures you always have a clear reference point for your color grading decisions.
Advanced Comparison Techniques and Tips
Beyond the basic setup, Premiere Pro offers further customization to enhance your comparison workflow. These advanced tips can help you refine your grades with greater precision.
- Using Still Frames: You can export a still frame from your sequence and load it into the Source Monitor. Then, in the Lumetri Color panel, select "From Source" under the Comparison View. This is excellent for comparing your current grade against a specific reference still.
- Keyframing Comparisons: For dramatic before-and-after reveals, you can keyframe the wipe slider. This creates a dynamic transition that showcases the transformation over time.
- Focus on Specific Areas: Use the Lumetri Color panel’s Curves and Color Wheels to isolate and adjust specific color ranges. The comparison view will update in real-time, allowing you to see how these targeted changes affect the overall image.
- External Comparison Tools: For critical color grading, some professionals use external scopes or reference monitors. However, for most everyday editing, Premiere Pro’s built-in comparison is more than sufficient.
Remember to regularly toggle the comparison view on and off to ensure your grade is enhancing the footage without deviating too far from the original intent.
When to Use Different Comparison Methods
The choice between "Side by Side" and "Wipe" often comes down to personal preference and the specific task at hand. Understanding their strengths can help you choose the best method.
| Comparison Method | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side by Side | Overall impression, quick checks, comparing different grading passes. | Clear, immediate view of both versions. | Can be harder to judge subtle differences across the entire frame. |
| Wipe | Fine-tuning details, subtle adjustments, revealing gradual changes. | Excellent for precise control and seeing how changes affect specific areas. | Requires active manipulation; can be distracting if not used smoothly. |
Both methods are invaluable for color grading workflows. Experiment with each to see which best suits your individual editing style and project needs.
People Also Ask
### How do I reset color changes in Premiere Pro?
To reset color changes in Premiere Pro, you can select the clip on your timeline, open the Lumetri Color panel, and click the "Reset" button located at the top right of the panel. This will revert all Lumetri Color adjustments made to that specific clip back to their original state. For individual adjustments within the panel, you can often find a reset option for specific sections like Basic Correction or Curves.
### Can I compare my video to a reference image in Premiere Pro?
Yes, you can compare your video to a reference image. Export a still frame from your sequence or import a reference image into your project. Then, in the Lumetri Color panel, under Comparison View, select "From Source." Load your reference image into the Source Monitor, and it will appear as your "before" image for comparison.
### What is the difference between Color Correction and Color Grading?
Color Correction aims to fix issues and ensure the footage looks natural and consistent, like balancing white balance and exposure. Color Grading, on the other hand, is about creating a specific aesthetic or mood for your video, using color to tell a story or evoke emotion. The comparison view is crucial for both processes.
### How do I make my video look cinematic in Premiere Pro?
To make your video look cinematic, focus on color grading techniques. This often involves desaturating colors slightly, adding a subtle blue or teal tone to shadows, and a warmer tone to highlights (teal and orange look). Adjusting contrast, adding vignetting, and ensuring proper exposure using tools like the Lumetri Color
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