Can I edit an adjustment layer that affects multiple sequences?

[ndelcastillo]

I'm working on an instructional project that includes around two dozen sequences. They are all separate, so it's really two dozen different videos. I created an adjustment layer for color correction that is exactly the same for every sequence. I want to make a slight adjustment to those color settings, but I don't want to make the change on one and then have to manually replace the adjustment layer on every sequence. My question is, is it possible to create one "master" adjustment layer that will update every instance in every sequence of the project without replacing the layer in each sequence when it's changed? Sort of like a Smart Object in Photoshop.

[Kevin-Monahan]

Hi @ndelcastillo,

Thanks for writing in such an excellent question. I did an experiment to try and replicate what you want to do and was able to succeed. 

I created a Production with multiple projects and different sequences. One of the projects is called "VFX," where I keep all my adjustment layers. I created a new adjustment layer and added a Lumetri Color effect to the adjustment layer in the Source side of the Effect Controls panel. I took down the Saturation and adjusted curves. I applied the adjustment layer to two different sequences in two different projects. Making adjustments to the adjustment layer in the VFX project does act like a "master" effect that has the potential of affecting multiple adjustment layers in various sequences in projects related to the Production. 

Please try this and see if you can add it to your workfow; If you are having trouble or wish to share any other findings, please return and share those. I hope the advice helps you.

Thanks,
Kevin

[Ali Jaber]

As Kevin said, you can apply the lumetri effect as a source effect to your adjustment layer. After that, you can use this adjustment layer wherever you want in your project. The tricky part using this technique is that you can't see the adjustments directly while adjusting lumetri effect in the source tab of the effect controls panel.

In your case, if you have one adjustment layer in your project panel that you used in all the sequences then do the following:

In one of your sequences add 2nd lumetri color to your adjustment layer, do your adjustments, cut the 2nd lumetri effect, go to the "Source" tab in the effect controls panel and paste.

[Ali Jaber]

Be aware that Source effects are executed before other effects that are in the effect controls panel, so after adding your 2nd lumetri color, move it in the effect controls panel to be the first one, then do your adjustments, then cut and paste...