Apply Color Grading to Multiple Clips in Adobe Premiere Pro (2025 Guide)

When editing in Adobe Premiere Pro, you’ll often work with projects that include dozens of clips. Applying color grading to multiple clips at once not only saves time but also ensures consistency across your entire timeline.

In this guide, we’ll explore different methods — from adjustment layers to copy-paste grading — so you can choose the workflow that best fits your editing style.

Method 1: Use Adjustment Layers (Most Efficient)

The most popular method to apply color grading across several clips is with adjustment layers.

Steps:

1. Go to the Project Panel → click the New Item icon → choose Adjustment Layer.
2. Drag the adjustment layer above your video clips on the timeline.
3. Extend the adjustment layer to cover all clips you want graded.
4. Apply your color corrections or LUTs to the adjustment layer.

👉 Any clip underneath inherits the same color grade automatically.

When to use it:

• Large sequences with many clips.
• Projects where you want the flexibility to disable or tweak the entire grade at once.

Method 2: Copy and Paste Color Grading

If you already graded one clip, you can quickly apply those same settings to others.

Steps:

1. Select the graded clip.
2. Press Ctrl/Cmd + C to copy.
3. Highlight the target clips → right-click → Paste Attributes.
4. Check Lumetri Color in the pop-up window and hit OK.

Pro Tip: Use this method when clips share similar lighting conditions.

Method 3: Apply Color to Master Clips

Master Clip effects let you apply grading directly to a source clip in the Project Panel.

Steps:

1. Select the clip in the Project Panel (not the timeline).
2. Go to Effects Controls → apply Lumetri Color.
3. Every instance of that clip in your sequence will now have the same grade.

Best for: Multi-cam shoots or repeated B-roll shots.

Method 4: Use Presets or LUTs

If you use the same grading style often, create a preset:

1. Grade one clip using Lumetri Color.
2. Right-click Lumetri → Save Preset.
3. Apply this preset to multiple clips or entire bins.

Alternatively, apply LUTs to an adjustment layer for consistency across projects.

Tips for Better Multi-Clip Grading

• Organize your timeline: Stack similar clips together before applying grading.
• Combine methods: Use master clips for global grading + adjustment layers for creative looks.
• Fine-tune individually: After global grading, refine exposure or white balance on specific clips.
• Use scopes: Rely on the Lumetri Scopes to keep grading consistent across shots.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overgrading with adjustment layers: Sometimes small tweaks per clip are still necessary.
• Forgetting color space conversions: Double-check footage shot in LOG or HDR before grading.
• Ignoring export preview: Always review the final export, as grading can look different outside Premiere.

Conclusion: Smarter Workflows in Premiere Pro

Applying color grading to multiple clips in Adobe Premiere Pro is easy once you know the right tools. Whether you choose adjustment layers, copy-paste attributes, master clips, or LUT presets, the key is to maintain efficiency while keeping your visuals consistent.

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FAQ Color Grading Multiple Clips in Premiere Pro

How do I apply color grading to all clips in Premiere Pro?

Use an adjustment layer above your timeline. All clips beneath it will automatically inherit the same grading.

Can I copy color grading from one clip to others?

Yes. Select the graded clip, copy it, then paste attributes onto multiple clips and check Lumetri Color.

What’s the difference between adjustment layers and master clips?

Adjustment layers affect timeline clips, while master clips apply grading directly to source footage, impacting all instances of that clip.

Can I use LUTs on multiple clips at once?

Yes. Apply the LUT to an adjustment layer or save a preset, then apply it across your entire project.

Is it better to grade clips individually or in bulk?

Do both: apply a global grade for consistency, then fine-tune individual clips to correct exposure or color shifts.