Understanding LUTs in Filmmaking

Think of LUTs as a painter's palette filled with vibrant colors waiting to be applied to a canvas. In digital filmmaking, LUTs act as the palette, containing predefined sets of values that transform raw footage into visually stunning masterpieces. But what exactly is a LUT, and why is it crucial in digital imaging?

A Look-Up Table (LUT) is a digital file that serves as a roadmap for color transformation. It takes raw, unrefined footage captured by digital cameras and guides it through a series of adjustments to achieve the desired color grading. From enhancing a sunset's warmth to creating a moody atmosphere, LUTs are the magic wand that brings filmmakers' visions to life.

1D and 3D LUTs: A Technical Dive

There are two main types of LUTs: 1D and 3D.

1D LUTs adjust luminance linearly without affecting color hue or saturation. They're perfect for fine-tuning brightness and contrast, ensuring every frame is perfectly exposed. These LUTs are hardly ever used in traditional filmmaking and color grading.

3D LUTs allow for more complex color transformations by operating within a three-dimensional color cube. They manipulate hue, saturation, and brightness simultaneously, offering filmmakers an expansive palette for creative expression.

Using LUTs during Filming (and Pre-Production)

Traditionally, LUTs have been reserved for the post-production phase. However, cinematographers advocate for integrating them into every stage of filmmaking, from pre-production to post-production.

By selecting a LUT that aligns with the project's aesthetic vision and applying it to the camera monitor, cinematographers gain real-time insight into how each shot will look once graded. This streamlines decision-making on set and creates a collaborative environment where creative ideas can flourish.

The Future of LUTs

With the digital revolution, LUTs have gained a lot of popularity. Young filmmakers started using LUTs as a one-stop-shop for color grading needs. Even though LUTs weren't designed for this at first, it proved to be a good choice for those who did not have the skill to color grade their own footage.

A LUT can give you stunning results in a couple clicks. This is also where the danger lies. These days, LUTs are overused. While using it subtly, it can give you amazing results.

Our advice is to learn about the two different flavors on the market these days. Input and creative LUTs.

Input LUTs are the starting point

With these types of LUTs, you transform your footage from your LOG profile into a workable color space. This is important because our phones, monitors, and TVs show us the content in a specific way.

For example, if I shoot in Slog-3 - which is Sony's SLog format - everything looks very flat and grey. If we'd put this online, and 10 different people would view this on their own phone, every image would look different as the device doesn't have the data to show. If we, however, convert this LOG footage to Rec.709 - the color space modern screens use to show content - it all looks clean and as intended.

Creative LUTs are the cherry on the cake

Once you've made all your basic corrections, like white balance and exposure adjustment, it's time to build the look.

You can spend lots of time building this by yourself, or you can use a LUT to achieve this quicker. This is especially useful if you don't have the knowledge to properly color grade.

Never just smack on a LUT and call it a day. Always be mindful with LUTs and change their intensity to match your vision.

If you're interested in high-quality LUTs, check out our LUT collection.