Using an iPad Pro as a second monitor for color grading offers several benefits, particularly when integrated with professional software like DaVinci Resolve. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. Convenience and Portability: The iPad Pro is lightweight and portable, making it easy to use in various environments, whether in a studio or on location. This flexibility is particularly useful for colorists who need to work remotely or in different settings[1][8].
2. Touch Interface: The iPad's touch screen allows for intuitive interaction with color grading tools, similar to using a control surface. This can enhance efficiency and creativity, especially when adjusting color wheels and other parameters[2][3].
3. Reference Mode: The iPad Pro supports Reference Mode, which is designed for professional content creation workflows like color grading. This mode disables features like True Tone and Auto-Brightness, ensuring consistent color accuracy and brightness levels suitable for HDR and SDR content[5][6]. Although it doesn't replace a high-end reference monitor, it improves the display's capability for color grading tasks.
4. Integration with Mac and PC: On Macs, the iPad can be easily set up as a second display using Sidecar, allowing seamless integration with macOS. For Windows PCs, third-party apps like Duet Display or iDisplay are required to achieve similar functionality[1][4].
5. Cost-Effective Solution: Using an iPad as a secondary display can be more cost-effective than purchasing a dedicated external monitor, especially for occasional use or when working on smaller projects[8].
6. Scopes and Monitoring: The iPad can be used to display scopes and other monitoring tools, freeing up the main monitor for the video feed. This setup is beneficial for maintaining a clean and organized workspace during color grading sessions[1][9].
7. Blackmagic Design Integration: The iPad Pro can run DaVinci Resolve directly, allowing for a full-featured color grading experience on the go. This is particularly useful when combined with Blackmagic's cloud services for seamless project transfer between devices[1][2].
Overall, the iPad Pro offers a versatile and efficient solution for color grading workflows, whether as a secondary display or a standalone tool.
Citations:[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rcXIobepmMw
[2] https://ymcinema.com/2021/05/27/ipad-pro-m1-the-ultimate-tool-for-video-editing-and-color-grading/
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IAbVxzdd_o
[4] https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/use-your-ipad-as-a-second-display-mchlf3c6f7ae/mac
[5] https://support.apple.com/en-us/111792
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/colorists/comments/1cmd9vn/thoughts_on_new_oled_ipad_pros_reference_mode_for/
[7] https://support.apple.com/guide/final-cut-pro-ipad/make-color-adjustments-dev796874668/ipados
[8] https://www.provideocoalition.com/using-an-ipad-as-a-fullscreen-playback-monitor/
[9] https://www.reddit.com/r/davinciresolve/comments/19dyl1s/can_i_use_an_ipad_as_a_grading_monitor/
[10] https://dvresolve.com/tutorial/color-grading-filmic-pro-ipad/