Where Are DaVinci Resolve LUTs Stored? - SOLVED

Navigating the world of LUTs in DaVinci Resolve is straightforward once you know where to look. The software comes with free LUTs, and you can find additional ones online, both free and paid. LUTs are stored in specific folders on your PC or Mac, and you can easily download and install them into DaVinci Resolve.

May 14, 2024
Where Are DaVinci Resolve LUTs Stored? - SOLVED
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What Are LUTs? (Lookup Tables)

LUTs are mathematical formulas that transform the color and tone of an image. They are used to achieve specific looks or correct colors in post-production. In other words, LUTs are like filters that can be applied to your footage to achieve a desired visual effect.

Finding DaVinci Resolve LUT Folder Location

STEP 1: Launching DaVinci Resolve

Start by opening DaVinci Resolve on your computer, whether it’s a PC or a MAC. You'll typically find the application icon on your desktop or your applications folder, depending on your operating system. Double-click on it.

STEP 2: Choose Your Project

Upon launching, DaVinci Resolve presents you with the Project Manager window. Here, you can either select an existing project by clicking on its thumbnail or create a new one. For our example, I'm selecting an ongoing project titled "Sunset Scenes." But if you're starting afresh, click on the 'New Project' button located at the bottom right.

STEP 3: Diving into Project Settings

Now, with your chosen project open, direct your eyes to the bottom right corner of the screen. You'll notice a cogwheel icon – that’s the “Project Settings” button. Click on it. Venturing into the Project Settings is akin to looking under the hood of a car. It’s where you get to tweak and fine-tune the finer aspects of your project.

STEP 4: Exploring Color Management

Inside the Project Settings, on the left sidebar, you'll observe a list of various options. Among them, locate and select "Color Management." It’s here that the magic happens, where you get to determine the vibe and tone of your entire project. Imagine having the power to decide how the morning sun looks in your footage or the shadows during a twilight scene.

STEP 5: Locating the Open LUT Folder

Within the Color Management section, focus on the right side of the screen. You'll find a button labeled "Open LUT Folder." Clicking on this will open the folder where all the LUT files are stored. For the purpose of our walk-through, I'm using a PC, so the path it takes me to is: “C:\ProgramData\Blackmagic Design\DaVinci Resolve\Support\LUT.” But if you're on a MAC, the pathway you'd be observing is “/Library/Application Support/Blackmagic Design/DaVinci Resolve.”

Now, with the LUT folder accessible, you’ve unlocked a whole dimension of creative opportunities. LUTs can serve as your final touch, the flourish that brings out the exact emotion, setting, or aesthetic you're targeting. With this knowledge at your disposal, you have an edge in ensuring that your project isn’t just good, but exceptional. Remember, in platforms like DaVinci Resolve, your creative decisions, like choosing the right LUTs, pave the way for unparalleled outcomes.

Setting Resolve LUTs Folder

What if you want to store your LUT files in a different folder? In my opinion, it makes sense to organize your LUTs in a way that suits your workflow. Here's how you can set a custom Resolve LUTs folder:

  1. Identify the Folder: Choose the folder where you'd like to store your LUTs.
  2. Create a Symbolic Link: You can make a symbolic link in the Resolve LUT directory to point to your custom folder. This forum discussion provides insights on how to do this.

How To Import Luts Into Davinci Resolve 18

Managing LUTs is an essential skill for anyone working with DaVinci Resolve. Here's a step-by-step guide to properly adding a LUT to your footage:

  1. Open Project Settings: This is where you'll configure the LUT.
  2. Place LUTs in Folder: Drag your LUTs (.cube files) into the designated folder.
  3. Refresh LUT List: This ensures that DaVinci Resolve recognizes the new LUTs.
  4. Choose LUT: Select your clip and add a "Serial Node" in the Node Editor, then select your LUT.
  5. Adjust LUT Intensity: You can adjust the intensity of the LUT to achieve the desired look.

FAQ

Does DaVinci Resolve have free LUTs?

Yes, DaVinci Resolve comes with a collection of free LUTs that you can use right away. These are pre-installed and can be found in the LUTs folder within the software. In addition, there are many online resources where you can not only download LUTs, but also pre-color graded footage.

Are there LUTs for DaVinci Resolve?

Absolutely! There are numerous LUTs available for DaVinci Resolve. Whether you're looking for cinematic looks, vintage styles, or specific color corrections, you'll find a wide variety of LUTs tailored for DaVinci Resolve. Some are free, while others might be available for purchase from professional colorists and filmmakers.

Where are the LUTs in DaVinci Resolve?

The LUTs in DaVinci Resolve are stored in a specific folder on your computer. On Windows, you'll find them at C:\ProgramData\Blackmagic Design\DaVinci Resolve\Support\LUT, and on Mac, they are located at /Library/Application Support/Blackmagic Design/DaVinci Resolve. You can also access them directly within the software under the color management settings.

What is a LUT in video editing?

As explained above, A LUT, or Lookup Table, is a mathematical formula used in video editing to transform the color and tone of an image. It's like a preset that applies specific color grading to footage, allowing you to achieve a desired visual effect. LUTs are commonly used to match colors between different cameras or to create a specific look for a film or video project.

How do I download LUTs for DaVinci?

Downloading LUTs for DaVinci Resolve is a straightforward process. Many websites offer free or paid LUTs specifically designed for DaVinci Resolve. Simply find the LUTs you like, download the .cube files, and then import them into DaVinci Resolve by placing them in the appropriate LUT folder.

Where do I find LUTs?

You can find LUTs within DaVinci Resolve or online. Many professional colorists, filmmakers, and websites offer LUTs for download. Some are free, while others may require a purchase. It's essential to ensure that the LUTs you download are compatible with DaVinci Resolve.

Where can I download free LUTs?

There are several online platforms and communities where you can download free LUTs. Websites like Envato Elements, Motion Array, Free Visuals, and others offer free LUTs that you can use in DaVinci Resolve. Always make sure to download from reputable sources to ensure the quality and compatibility of the LUTs.

Do Premiere LUTs work in DaVinci Resolve?

Yes, LUTs created for Adobe Premiere Pro can generally be used in DaVinci Resolve. LUTs are often saved in the .cube format, which is a standard file type that can be used across different video editing software. However, it's always a good idea to test the LUTs to make sure they work as expected in DaVinci Resolve, as there might be slight variations in how different software interprets the LUTs.