photo editing, tutorials
Cinematic Color Grading w/ LUTs
Welcome to our blog dedicated to the fascinating world of cinematic color grading with LUTs. If you’ve ever wondered how filmmakers achieve those mesmerizing and captivating color palettes in their movies, you’ve come to the right place. Color grading is a vital part of the filmmaking process that helps create the desired mood, atmosphere, and visual impact on the audience. In this blog, we will explore the art of color grading, especially the use of LUTs (Lookup Tables) which are powerful tools that allow filmmakers to achieve specific color and tone adjustments effortlessly. Join us as we delve into the techniques, tips, and tricks of cinematic color grading with LUTs, uncovering the secrets behind breathtaking cinematography.
Cinematic Color Grading w/ LUTs
Introduction
It’s been two and a half years since the release of the first set of bloods by the team, and they have been eager to create new looks to enhance the color grading experience. Collaborating with color master Caitlyn from White in Reverie, they have developed a collection of LUTs that are simply amazing. These LUTs have been carefully crafted to work with various types of footage, whether it’s shot on Sony, Blackmagic, or a standard color profile on Panasonic. In this article, we will explore how these LUTs can be used on different types of footage, ensuring stunning cinematic color grading results.
Using LUTs with Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6k
Starting with a flat profile of the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6k, the team demonstrates how to use the LUTs effectively. The first step involves ensuring the clips are in the rec 709 color gamut, with correct exposure and white balance. Adjustments like lowering shadows, increasing whites, lowering highlights, and adjusting temperature and tint can be made. Once these adjustments are done, a new adjustment layer is created and renamed to LUT. The chosen LUT is then applied to the footage, with the intensity adjusted if necessary.
Using LUTs with Different Cameras
The team compiled shots from various cameras, including Red, Sony, Blackmagic, Canon, and more. As these clips were shot in a flat profile, adjusting contrast and saturation on each clip was necessary to bring it into rec 709. The team promises more in-depth videos on color grading if requested by the audience.
Using LUTs with Non-Flat Footage
For those who do not have a camera that can shoot in a flat profile, the team demonstrates how the LUTs can still work effectively. They take a clip from a Canon 5D Mark IV with a standard picture profile, which already has high contrast and saturation. Before applying the LUT, they suggest boosting shadows, dropping saturation, and adjusting the color wheels to flatten the footage. Adding contrast and saturation to log footage before applying the LUT is also advised.
Using LUTs with Different Types of Footage
The team also showcases the versatility of the LUTs by applying them to footage shot on a Canon 1DX Mark II with a neutral picture profile. Since the clip has already undergone some color correction, the intensity of the LUT can simply be turned down for a subtle effect. They even try using the LUTs with drone footage and phone footage, proving their compatibility with various sources.
Conclusion
The team hopes that these LUTs will make color grading more enjoyable for users. For a limited time, the new collection can be purchased at a discounted price. Additionally, signing up for the gamete newsletter will provide users with a free LUT. They encourage everyone to check out the link in the description for more information. Don’t forget to like the video, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated. See you next week!
Frequently Asked Questions – Cinematic Color Grading with LUTs
What is Cinematic Color Grading?
Cinematic color grading refers to the process of altering the colors, tones, and overall look of a video or image to create a specific cinematic aesthetic. It involves adjusting various parameters, such as the contrast, saturation, and color balance, to achieve a desired visual style.
What are LUTs?
LUTs, short for Look-Up Tables, are predefined mathematical formulas or sets of instructions used to map one set of colors to another. They provide a quick and convenient way to apply specific looks and color grading styles to videos and images consistently and efficiently.
How are LUTs used in Cinematic Color Grading?
LUTs are applied in the post-production stage of video editing or image processing. They can be imported into editing software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve. Once applied, the LUT modifies the colors and tones of the footage, transforming it into a cinematic look according to the instructions within the LUT file.
Where can I find Cinematic Color Grading LUTs?
There are various online marketplaces and websites where you can find both free and paid Cinematic Color Grading LUTs. Some popular sources include dedicated LUT libraries, filmmaking forums, and websites of professional colorists. It’s essential to verify the quality and compatibility of the LUTs before using them in your projects.
Can I create my own Cinematic LUTs?
Absolutely! Many video editing software programs provide tools and features to create your own LUTs. You can start by adjusting the color grading parameters manually until you achieve the desired look. Once satisfied, you can save the settings as a LUT file to apply it to other footage in the future.
Are LUTs compatible with all video editing software?
Most professional video editing software supports LUTs. However, it is advisable to check the compatibility of the editing software with LUT files as some may have specific requirements or limitations. Make sure to verify the supported file formats and instructions provided by the software documentation.
Can Cinematic Color Grading with LUTs be applied to both videos and images?
Yes, LUTs can be used for both color grading videos and enhancing the look of images. The process and application may vary slightly between these two mediums, but the basic concept remains the same – applying a LUT to achieve a specific cinematic aesthetic.
Is Cinematic Color Grading with LUTs reversible?
Yes, applying Cinematic Color Grading with LUTs is a non-destructive process. Most video editing software allows you to disable or remove the applied LUT, reverting the footage or image to its original state. This flexibility allows you to experiment with different looks without permanently altering your media files.
I hope you find useful my article Cinematic Color Grading w/ LUTs, I also recommend you to read my other posts in my blog at this link.
If you need help with anything join the community or do not hesitate to contact me.
Best of luck! and follow your passion.
Please consider joining my newsletter or following me on social media if you like my content.
WE DID SOMETHING CRAZY… WE BOUGHT A VAN!!!
Have you ever felt a burning desire to break free from the confines of modern...Read More
Canon’s FINALLY Going 3rd Party?! WATCH OUT, Nikon’s MASSIVE Update COMING SOON…
Are you an avid photographer in search of the latest camera equipment upgrades? Well, you’re...Read More
First WILD rumors about the Sony A7sIV specs: 2 layer sensor and crazy ISO performance?
Are you ready to take your photography and videography to new levels? The rumors about...Read More
Rode Wireless ME Review // Auto Mic Level Control That Works
Are you tired of constantly adjusting the mic levels during your video shoots or live...Read More
NEW DJI Pocket 3 Face Tracking Test
Are you a content creator looking for a reliable and user-friendly camera that can keep...Read More
Panasonic Lumix S Pro 16-35mm F4 Review w / S5 IIx & S1
Are you in the market for a new lens for your Panasonic Lumix S5 II...Read More
Where Photographers Should Post Their Photos in 2022 | Part 2 (Pinterest)
Welcome to the second part of our series on where photographers should post their photos...Read More
How to Create Selections in Photoshop | Day 5
Are you looking to enhance your photo editing skills in Photoshop? If so, you’ve come...Read More
