If you’re a video editor or filmmaker aiming to elevate your visuals, DaVinci Resolve LUTs are an essential tool to have in your post-production workflow. Whether you’re color grading cinematic footage, creating a consistent look for your YouTube channel, or editing a music video, LUTs (Look-Up Tables) can dramatically enhance your project’s color and mood.

This comprehensive, user-friendly, SEO-optimized guide will walk you through everything you need to know about DaVinci Resolve LUTs—what they are, how to use them, types of LUTs available, and answers to frequently asked questions.

What Are DaVinci Resolve LUTs?

LUTs (Look-Up Tables) in DaVinci Resolve are mathematical formulas that remap the colors and tones of your footage. In simpler terms, a LUT applies a specific color grade or style to your video—instantly transforming flat or neutral footage into a professionally graded masterpiece.

DaVinci Resolve, a leading video editing and color correction software by Blackmagic Design, offers powerful support for LUTs, allowing creators to streamline their grading process with precision and creativity.

Voice search snippet:
“What are DaVinci Resolve LUTs? LUTs in DaVinci Resolve are color presets used to transform the look and feel of your video footage quickly and professionally.”

Why Use LUTs in DaVinci Resolve?

Here’s why LUTs are a go-to solution for filmmakers and editors:

  • 🎨 Save time by applying instant color grades
  • 🎥 Achieve cinematic looks with minimal effort
  • 📽️ Maintain consistency across different scenes or projects
  • 🧠 Use as a base to build more complex color grades
  • 🧩 Match camera footage from different sources easily

Types of DaVinci Resolve LUTs

LUTs come in various types, each suited for specific purposes and stages of your color grading workflow. Let’s explore the most common ones:

1. Technical LUTs

These are designed to convert footage from one color space or gamma curve to another—commonly used when working with log footage.

  • Examples: S-Log3 to Rec.709, V-Log to Rec.709, Blackmagic Film to Rec.709
  • Best for: Camera-specific conversions, prepping footage for further grading

2. Creative LUTs

These add stylized looks to your footage, simulating film stock, vintage tones, or cinematic moods.

  • Examples: Teal & Orange, Filmic LUTs, Black & White LUTs
  • Best for: Final look creation and mood enhancement

3. Utility LUTs

These help with technical adjustments, exposure balancing, or matching between shots.

  • Examples: Exposure correction LUTs, skin tone fixes, camera match LUTs
  • Best for: Technical corrections and maintaining shot consistency

4. Monitoring LUTs

Applied on external monitors during shooting to preview how footage will look once graded.

  • Examples: Rec.709 conversion LUTs used on-set
  • Best for: Real-time preview of footage during production

How to Install LUTs in DaVinci Resolve (Step-by-Step)

  1. Open DaVinci Resolve and go to the Project Settings (bottom right gear icon).
  2. Navigate to Color Management > Lookup Tables.
  3. Click “Open LUT Folder.”
  4. Drag your downloaded .cube LUT files into the LUT folder.
  5. Go back to Resolve and click “Update Lists” to refresh.
  6. Your LUTs will now appear under the LUTs panel in the Color workspace.

✅ Pro Tip: Organize LUTs into subfolders for better project management.

How to Apply a LUT in DaVinci Resolve

You can apply a LUT in multiple ways, but here’s the most common method:

  1. Go to the Color page.
  2. Right-click on a node.
  3. Select LUT > Choose a category > Select the LUT.
  4. Fine-tune the result by adjusting exposure, contrast, saturation, or adding more nodes.

Best Practices for Using DaVinci Resolve LUTs

  • 🎛️ Use LUTs as a starting point, not the final grade.
  • 🎥 Shoot in log or RAW for the most flexible grading options.
  • 🖼️ Balance exposure and white balance before applying a creative LUT.
  • 🗂️ Organize your LUTs by genre, mood, or camera type.
  • ⚙️ Always review on calibrated monitors for true color accuracy.

Where to Find High-Quality DaVinci Resolve LUTs

✅ Free LUT Resources:

  • DaVinci Resolve’s built-in LUTs
  • Triune Digital Free LUTs
  • IWLTBAP (some free packs)
  • Motion Array and RocketStock sample packs

💼 Premium LUT Sources:

  • Color Grading Central
  • LUTs by James Miller (Deluts)
  • CinePacks
  • Peter McKinnon LUTs
  • PolarPro

Use Cases: Who Needs DaVinci Resolve LUTs?

Use CaseRecommended LUT TypeWhy It Works
Indie FilmmakingCreative & Technical LUTsAchieve Hollywood-style color grading fast
YouTube CreatorsTeal & Orange, Retro LUTsEye-catching looks with minimal editing
Wedding VideographersRomantic & Soft Film LUTsEnhances skin tones and ambiance
Commercial EditorsClean & Professional LUTsAdds polish and brand consistency
Travel/VloggersVivid & High Contrast LUTsBoosts landscape and adventure footage

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a LUT in DaVinci Resolve?

A LUT (Look-Up Table) in DaVinci Resolve is a preset that remaps the colors in your video footage to create a specific look, style, or correct color space.

2. Are LUTs free in DaVinci Resolve?

Yes! DaVinci Resolve comes with built-in LUTs, and many websites offer free LUTs you can install and use easily.

3. How do I install LUTs in DaVinci Resolve?

Open Resolve > Project Settings > Color Management > Open LUT Folder > Add .cube files > Update Lists.

4. Can I use Photoshop or Premiere LUTs in DaVinci Resolve?

Yes, if they are in .cube format. DaVinci Resolve supports .cube files universally used across Adobe and other platforms.

5. Why does my LUT look too intense or unnatural?

LUTs often need fine-tuning. Adjust exposure, contrast, and saturation to blend the LUT with your footage.

6. Can you make your own LUTs in DaVinci Resolve?

Yes! After grading a clip, go to the Color page > right-click a node > Generate 3D LUT. You can export and reuse your custom LUTs.

7. What’s the difference between a technical and creative LUT?

A technical LUT corrects or transforms color space (like Log to Rec.709), while a creative LUT adds stylistic elements to enhance your footage.

Final Thoughts

DaVinci Resolve LUTs are a powerful way to enhance your video projects with consistency, style, and professional polish. Whether you’re a beginner learning color grading or a seasoned pro streamlining your workflow, the right LUT can save time and elevate your storytelling.

From technical conversions to cinematic aesthetics, the possibilities are endless when you use LUTs the right way.

This page was last edited on 4 June 2025, at 4:29 pm