Understanding Creative and Conversion LUTs for Beginner Video Editors

Video editing can be both thrilling and daunting for beginners. One key term you will often hear is “LUT,” which stands for Look-Up Table. LUTs are invaluable tools for video editors, enhancing visuals and simplifying the editing process. In this post, we will explore the two main types of LUTs: creative LUTs and conversion LUTs. Knowing the differences between them can significantly boost your editing skills and help you achieve the look you want for your videos.

What are LUTs?

LUTs are preset colour grading settings designed to apply specific colour transformations to your footage. By using a LUT, you can change the overall look of your video without needing extensive colour grading experience.

LUTs function like tables that map input colours to output colours. When a LUT is applied, the editing software uses these mappings to adjust your original footage.

The Importance of LUTs in Video Editing

LUTs are essential because they simplify the editing process, especially for beginners. They allow you to quickly achieve a particular mood or aesthetic, ensuring consistency in the video.

After applying a LUT, you can seamlessly fine-tune colours, contrast, and brightness to align with your creative vision.

What are Creative LUTs?

Creative LUTs are tailored to enhance the artistic quality of your footage, adding a distinct style or mood. These LUTs can shift colours dramatically and even simulate the appearance of popular films.

Examples of Creative LUTs

• Cinematic LUTs: Used frequently in narrative filmmaking, these LUTs give your video a film-like quality, complete with deep shadows and bright highlights. For instance, applying a cinematic LUT can increase the contrast by 20% to create a more dramatic effect.

  
  

• Mood LUTs: Designed to evoke specific emotions, these LUTs might warm up your footage, adding golden tones, or cool it down with bluish hues. These are great for adding depth/character to a somewhat flat or uninteresting scene.

  
  

• Vintage LUTs: These give a nostalgic touch to your videos, using pastel tones and faded colours reminiscent of classic films. When applied, they can reduce vivid colour saturation, creating a softer look.

  
  

When to Use Creative LUTs

Creative LUTs shine when you want to achieve a specific mood or style that supports your project’s vision. If your goal is to create a dark, moody atmosphere, a creative LUT can help set that tone effectively.

However, use creative LUTs sparingly. Overusing them can result in distracting visuals. A good practice is to adjust the intensity of the LUT or complement it with other editing techniques for the best outcome.

What are Conversion LUTs?

Conversion LUTs serve a different function. Their primary purpose is to convert footage from one colour space to another, a crucial step when working with different camera technologies.

Examples of Conversion LUTs

• Log to Rec.709: Many cameras capture footage in a logarithmic colour space to maximise dynamic range. A Log to Rec.709 conversion LUT transforms this footage into a standard format for viewing.

  
  

• Colour Space Conversion: These LUTs facilitate the transition of footage between different colour spaces (e.g., Adobe RGB to sRGB). This ensures that your footage appears consistent across various platforms.

  
  

When to Use Conversion LUTs

Apply conversion LUTs early in the editing process. For instance, if you shot in a flat or log colour profile, using a conversion LUT helps bring your footage into a more standard viewing format, vital for maintaining visual fidelity.

Understanding your camera's colour space will assist you in selecting the right conversion LUT, ensuring your footage retains its intended quality.

The Differences Between Creative and Conversion LUTs

While both types of LUTs can enhance your footage, they have different applications and purposes.

Purpose

• Creative LUTs: Focus on adding aesthetic quality and artistic flair.

  
  

• Conversion LUTs: Primarily used for transforming footage from one colour space to another to ensure accurate representation.

  
  

Application Timing

• Creative LUTs: Generally applied after completing primary colour corrections. They help finalise the desired look.

  
  

• Conversion LUTs: Used early in the editing process, right after importing footage, for proper colour representation.

  
  

Complexity and Adjustment

• Creative LUTs: Often require adjustments post-application to align with your vision.

  
  

• Conversion LUTs: Typically applied as-is, needing less tweaking unless specific corrections are necessary.

Tips for Using LUTs Effectively

As a beginner, knowing how to use LUTs can enhance your videos. Here are some practical tips:

Choose High-Quality LUTs

Opt for high-quality LUTs from reputable sources to ensure they yield the best results.

Start with Conversion LUTs

Begin your editing process with conversion LUTs to correct your colour profile based on camera settings before adding creative LUTs.

Experiment and Customise

Feel free to explore various LUTs. Customising them in your editing software can also help create a unique style that reflects your vision.

Adjust Opacity

Most editing programs allow you to adjust a LUT's intensity. If a LUT feels overpowering, dial it back to achieve a more balanced look.

Combine with Other Techniques

LUTs work best with additional colour correction tools like curves, colour wheels, and sliders. Using these methods alongside LUTs will elevate your visuals.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the differences between creative and conversion LUTs is vital for beginners looking to enhance their video editing skills. Creative LUTs focus on adding unique moods and aesthetics to your footage, while conversion LUTs ensure accurate colour representation across formats.

As you start your video editing journey, take time to explore both types of LUTs and their applications. Over time, you'll learn how to transform raw footage into a polished final product that successfully conveys your story.

Mastering LUTs will not only improve your editing skills but also give you the confidence to make bolder creative choices. Happy editing!