A LUT, or lookup table, is a set of instructions that maps input colour and brightness values to output values. In video editing, a LUT can be used to transform footage into a different colour space or apply a particular look. It changes how the image is displayed or rendered; it does not restore detail that was never recorded.

Technical LUTs and creative LUTs

A technical LUT may be designed to convert footage from a camera’s log profile into a more standard viewing format. A creative LUT is intended to give an image a particular appearance, such as a warmer tone or stronger contrast.

These jobs are different. Applying a creative LUT to footage that needs a technical conversion may produce an unexpected result. Follow the camera manufacturer’s guidance for the profile used to record the footage, and check what colour space your project and delivery require.

Apply LUTs with a test

A LUT is not a substitute for correct exposure or white balance. Footage captured too dark, clipped highlights or inconsistent lighting can still look wrong after a LUT is applied. The same LUT can also produce different results on different footage.

Apply it to a test clip first. Check skin tones, shadows and highlights, and compare the result on a reliable display. If the image looks too strong, reduce the LUT’s intensity or adjust the grade rather than forcing the same setting onto every shot.

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