If you’re aiming to achieve cinematic, stylized color tones in your videos, you’ve likely come across the term VSCO LUTs. Known for its iconic photo filters, VSCO has inspired a generation of visual storytellers—and that influence has extended into the video world through LUTs (Lookup Tables). Whether you’re a filmmaker, content creator, or social media editor, learning how to use VSCO LUTs can dramatically enhance your color grading workflow.

This comprehensive guide explains what VSCO LUTs are, the different types available, how to use them effectively, and answers to common questions.

What Are VSCO LUTs?

VSCO LUTs are color grading files that emulate the signature looks of VSCO photo presets for video footage. A LUT (Lookup Table) is a mathematical formula that remaps colors in your video to achieve a specific style or tone. These LUTs are typically used in video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and more.

While VSCO itself doesn’t officially release LUTs for video, many creators and developers have recreated the look of popular VSCO filters as downloadable LUT packs for filmmaking.

Why Use VSCO LUTs?

Here are the benefits of using VSCO LUTs:

Achieve a cohesive aesthetic that mirrors VSCO’s minimal, moody, or film-inspired looks.
Speed up your workflow with one-click color grading.
Maintain brand consistency across both photo and video content.
Add cinematic tones without needing deep color correction knowledge.
Create mood and emotion in your footage instantly.

Types of VSCO LUTs

There are many variations of VSCO-inspired LUTs, each designed to mimic a specific filter. Here are the most popular types:

1. VSCO Aesthetic LUTs

These replicate VSCO’s classic film-inspired filters. They offer soft highlights, faded blacks, and muted color palettes. Perfect for a nostalgic or analog look.

2. VSCO Moody LUTs

Ideal for dramatic or emotional storytelling, moody LUTs use cooler tones, desaturation, and contrast to set a specific mood.

3. VSCO Warm LUTs

These feature golden hues, rich reds, and creamy highlights—great for lifestyle, travel, and portrait content.

4. VSCO Black & White LUTs

Recreating filters like B5 or X1, these LUTs are excellent for timeless monochrome storytelling with enhanced shadows and highlights.

5. VSCO Portrait LUTs

Optimized for skin tones, these LUTs offer gentle contrast, subtle color shifts, and flattering warmth—ideal for beauty and fashion videos.

6. VSCO Cinematic LUTs

These emulate the cinematic vibe of modern indie films. Think teal-orange tones, soft shadows, and rich mid-tones.

How to Use VSCO LUTs in Your Workflow

Step 1: Choose the Right VSCO LUT

Download a VSCO LUT pack that fits your project’s mood. Ensure it’s compatible with your editing software and color space (Rec.709, LOG, etc.).

Step 2: Import the LUT into Your Editing Software

In Adobe Premiere Pro:

Go to the Color workspace.
Open Lumetri Color panel.
Under the Creative tab, click Look and select your LUT.
Adjust Intensity and fine-tune Exposure, Contrast, and Saturation.

In DaVinci Resolve:

Go to the Color tab.
Right-click in the LUTs area and choose Import LUTs.
Apply the LUT to your node and tweak accordingly.

Step 3: Adjust for Lighting and Skin Tones

LUTs are a great starting point, but every clip is different. Make minor adjustments to:

White balance
Exposure
Contrast
Skin tone accuracy

Step 4: Add Finishing Touches

Enhance your footage with vignettes, grain, sharpness, or other effects to complete the VSCO-inspired look.

Where to Find VSCO LUTs

Although VSCO doesn’t officially sell LUTs, you can find VSCO-inspired LUTs from:

Independent creators on Etsy or Gumroad
LUT marketplaces (many offer free starter packs)
Custom-built packs designed to match VSCO filters like A6, HB2, M5, and more

Always check reviews and sample footage before purchasing.

Best Practices for Using VSCO LUTs

Use a neutral color profile (like LOG or Rec.709) when filming for optimal results.
Don’t rely solely on LUTs—tweak based on lighting, camera, and subject.
Create a LUT preview bin to test multiple options quickly.
Combine with manual grading for a polished, customized look.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are VSCO LUTs used for?

VSCO LUTs are used for color grading video footage to emulate the popular aesthetic of VSCO photo filters. They help achieve consistent, stylized looks quickly in post-production.

2. Can I use VSCO LUTs in Adobe Premiere Pro?

Yes, you can import VSCO LUTs into Premiere Pro using the Lumetri Color panel. They work best on Rec.709 or LOG footage and can be adjusted for brightness, contrast, and saturation.

3. Where can I download VSCO LUTs?

While VSCO doesn’t officially offer LUTs, many third-party creators sell VSCO-inspired LUT packs on sites like Etsy, Gumroad, or filter marketplaces. Look for versions that match filters like A4, C1, or HB1.

4. Do I need to shoot in a specific format to use VSCO LUTs?

It’s best to shoot in a flat or LOG color profile to give you more flexibility in grading. However, VSCO LUTs can also be applied to standard Rec.709 footage with minor adjustments.

5. Are VSCO LUTs good for professional filmmaking?

Absolutely. VSCO LUTs provide a strong starting point for storytelling. Many filmmakers use them in documentaries, YouTube videos, music videos, and branded content to set a consistent mood or tone.

6. Can I make my own VSCO LUTs?

Yes. You can manually grade your footage to match a specific VSCO filter look and then export that color grade as a LUT in most editing software for future use.

Conclusion

VSCO LUTs bring the popular photo aesthetics of VSCO into the world of video editing, offering a fast and creative way to elevate your visuals. Whether you’re producing cinematic films, travel vlogs, or social content, these LUTs help you maintain a cohesive, polished, and professional look across platforms. Now that you know how to use and customize VSCO LUTs, you’re ready to create videos that feel as refined as your favorite VSCO-edited photos.

This page was last edited on 4 June 2025, at 4:28 pm