Learn how to apply Look-Up Tables (LUTs) in DaVinci Resolve to quickly color grade your footage, convert log footage, and achieve specific cinematic looks.
Open your project in DaVinci Resolve and click on the Color tab at the bottom of the interface to enter the color grading workspace.
In the Node Editor panel, right-click on an existing node and select Add Node > Add Serial. It's best practice to apply LUTs on a separate node. You can also use the shortcut Alt + S (Windows) or Option + S (Mac).
In the top-left corner of the Color page, click on the LUTs button. This will open a panel displaying all the LUTs installed in DaVinci Resolve, organized into folders.
Browse through the folders to find your desired LUT. Click and drag the LUT from the panel and drop it directly onto the new serial node you created. The effect will be applied to your footage instantly.
Pro Tips for Working with LUTs
To use your own LUTs, place the .cube files into Resolve's LUT folder. Go to Project Settings > Color Management > Open LUT Folder to find the correct location, then click Update Lists.
If a LUT is too strong, select its node, go to the Key palette, and lower the Key Output > Gain value to blend the effect with the original image.
For best results, perform your primary corrections (exposure, contrast, white balance) on a node before the node with your creative LUT. This ensures the LUT is applied to a balanced image.
Technical LUTs (e.g., Log to Rec.709) should be placed early in your node tree. Creative or 'look' LUTs should be placed near the end.
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