DaVinci Resolve terms

3D LUT Import/Export

The ability to bring in or send out 3D LUTs (Look-Up Tables), which can be used for color grading or to apply specific looks.

What is 3D LUT import/export in DaVinci Resolve?

3D LUT (Look-Up Table) import/export in DaVinci Resolve refers to a feature that allows users to import or export color grading settings. This is particularly useful for colorists and video editors who want to apply the same color grading across different clips, projects, or even different editing software. The 3D LUTs contain detailed information about color adjustments, including hue, saturation, and brightness values, which can be applied to a video clip or an entire timeline.

In DaVinci Resolve, users can create their own 3D LUTs or import those created by others. Once a 3D LUT is imported, it can be applied to any clip in the project. Similarly, if a user has created a unique color grade that they want to use in the future or share with others, they can export it as a 3D LUT. This feature enhances the flexibility and efficiency of color grading in DaVinci Resolve.

How to import 3D LUT in DaVinci Resolve?

To import a 3D LUT in DaVinci Resolve, you first need to open the software and load your project. Once your project is open, navigate to the Color workspace by clicking on the 'Color' tab at the bottom of the screen. On the left side of the screen, you will see a panel labeled 'LUTs'. If you don't see this panel, you can enable it by going to the 'Workspace' menu at the top of the screen, then selecting 'Show LUTs'.

To import your 3D LUT, right-click in the 'LUTs' panel and select 'Open LUT Folder'. This will open the folder where DaVinci Resolve stores its LUTs. Copy your 3D LUT file into this folder. Once you've done this, go back to DaVinci Resolve and right-click in the 'LUTs' panel again, but this time select 'Update Lists'. Your 3D LUT should now appear in the 'LUTs' panel, and you can apply it to your footage by dragging it onto the node in the Node Editor.

How to export 3D LUT from DaVinci Resolve?

To export a 3D LUT from DaVinci Resolve, you first need to open the project that contains the color grading you want to export. Once you have the project open, navigate to the Color page. This is where you will find all the color grading tools. Select the clip that has the color grading you want to export.

Next, right-click on the clip thumbnail in the timeline or the node in the node editor that contains the grade. From the context menu, select 'Generate 3D LUT'. A dialog box will appear asking you to name and save your LUT. Choose a name and location that will make it easy to find later. Click 'Save' and your 3D LUT will be exported. You can now use this LUT in other projects or software.

Why is my 3D LUT not working in DaVinci Resolve?

There could be several reasons why your 3D LUT is not working in DaVinci Resolve. One common issue could be that the LUT file format is not compatible with DaVinci Resolve. The software supports .cube and .dctl formats, so ensure your LUT is in one of these formats. Another issue could be the location of the LUT. DaVinci Resolve has specific folders where it looks for LUTs, so make sure your LUT is in the correct folder.

Additionally, the problem could be related to how you're applying the LUT in DaVinci Resolve. You need to apply the LUT to a node in the Color page. If you're trying to apply it in the Edit or Media pages, it won't work. Also, ensure that the node you're applying the LUT to is not bypassed or turned off. Lastly, check if the LUT is too intense for your footage, you might need to dial back the opacity or mix of the LUT.

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