What Are LUTs? The Complete Beginner’s Guide to Color Grading LUTs
In today’s world of filmmaking, YouTube videos, reels, short films, weddings, and even smartphone videos — LUTs have become one of the most powerful color-grading tools. But what exactly are LUTs? How do they work? And how can they transform your video?
Let’s dive in.
✨ What Is a LUT?
A LUT (Look-Up Table) is a color-transform file that instantly changes the look, mood, and style of your footage.
In simple words:
👉 LUT = Ready-made color preset for your videos
Just like photo filters, but way more powerful and professional.
✨ Why Do Filmmakers and Editors Use LUTs?
1. Faster Workflow
Professional color grading takes hours, but LUTs save huge time by giving a strong base look in seconds.
2. Consistent Color
When shooting multiple clips, lighting and exposure change. LUTs help keep all shots consistent.
3. Cinematic Look
With the right LUT, your footage instantly becomes:
- More dramatic
- More vibrant
- More film-like
- More emotional
4. Perfect for Beginners
Even if you don’t know advanced color grading, LUTs can give you professional results quickly.
✨ Types of LUTs (Must Know!)
1. Technical LUTs
These LUTs convert your flat/log footage into normal colors.
Examples:
- S-Log3 to Rec.709
- V-Log to Rec.709
- BRAW Film to Video
They are used for accurate color conversion.
2. Creative LUTs
These LUTs add unique color styles:
- Teal & Orange
- Moody
- Vintage
- Film Look
- Hollywood tones
Used for styling and enhancing mood of your video.
✨ How Do LUTs Work?
Each LUT file has a precise color formula.
When you apply it to your footage, it instantly adjusts:
- Contrast
- Saturation
- Highlights
- Shadows
- Color tones
- White balance
Every LUT has a specific “look” baked into it.
✨ Popular LUT File Formats
- .cube → Most common (DaVinci Resolve, Premiere Pro, Final Cut)
- .aml → ARRI Look format (ARRI Alexa)
- .vlt → Panasonic LUT
- .xmp → Lightroom presets (not LUTs but similar)
For most editors, .cube is the universal standard.
✨ Where Can You Use LUTs?
- DaVinci Resolve
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Final Cut Pro
- CapCut
- Filmora
- VN App
- Mobile color grading apps
- Camera monitors (Atomos, SmallHD)
- Even inside some cameras (Sony, Panasonic)
✨ How to Apply LUTs (Simple Steps)
Step 1: Import your footage
Step 2: Add an adjustment layer or node
Step 3: Apply LUT
Step 4: Adjust intensity (30%–70% works best)
Step 5: Fine-tune exposure, contrast, and skin tones
That’s it!
✨ Are LUTs Good for Beginners?
100% YES.
LUTs help beginners:
- Learn color styles
- Understand cinematic tones
- Improve editing quality
- Work faster
- Get professional results instantly
✨ Should You Buy LUTs?
If you’re serious about:
- Editing
- Filmmaking
- Content creation
- Short films
- Wedding videos
…then premium LUTs can level up your production value.
Free LUTs are good, but paid LUTs are more refined, film-accurate, and better for skin tones.
✨ Final Thoughts
LUTs are not just “filters.”
They are professional color tools that can completely transform your video.
If you want your footage to look cinematic, consistent, and modern —
👉 LUTs are the fastest way to upgrade your visuals.
