A LUT (Lookup Table) is a mathematical formula that transforms one set of colors into another, providing precise color grading and ensuring consistency across images or video. Originally from cinema and video production, LUTs have become popular in photography for creating specific looks and moods.
How LUTs Work
A LUT is essentially a mapping file that says “if you have this input color, output this different color instead.” They work like sophisticated filters, remapping colors throughout the entire image based on precise mathematical relationships. LUTs can dramatically change color palettes in ways that would take dozens of individual adjustments to recreate manually.
Types of LUTs
- Creative LUTs – Stylistic color grades (cinematic, vintage, etc.)
- Technical LUTs – Color space conversions (log to Rec.709)
- Correction LUTs – Fix color casts or match cameras
- Calibration LUTs – Ensure accurate display colors
- Film emulation LUTs – Recreate analog film stocks
Using LUTs in Photography
In Photoshop, apply LUTs through Color Lookup adjustment layers. Lightroom supports LUTs as profiles in the Profile Browser. Apply a LUT, then adjust its strength and fine-tune with additional adjustments. LUTs work best as starting points rather than final solutions—they establish the color palette, which you then refine.
LUTs vs. Presets
While presets store specific slider positions and adjustment values, LUTs mathematically remap color values regardless of your starting point. Presets are editor-specific; LUTs work across multiple applications. LUTs are particularly powerful for video where consistency across clips is crucial, but they’re increasingly popular for photography series requiring cohesive color grading.
Popular LUT Styles
- Cinematic teal and orange – Blockbuster movie aesthetic
- Vintage film looks – Kodak, Fuji, and classic film emulations
- Bleach bypass – Desaturated, contrasty look
- Cross-processing – Color shifts from film chemistry experiments
- Day-for-night – Make daytime look like moonlit night
Creating Custom LUTs
You can create LUTs from your favorite grades in Photoshop using File > Export > Color Lookup Tables. This lets you save complex color grades as portable files. Creating LUTs from your RAW processing ensures consistent looks across photo series or maintains brand identity across multiple photographers’ work.
Technical Considerations
LUTs work in specific color spaces—applying a Rec.709 LUT to a log image won’t work correctly. Start with properly exposed, color-corrected images before applying creative LUTs. Be aware that LUTs can clip highlights or crush shadows if applied too aggressively. Adjust opacity or blend modes to achieve more subtle effects. Understanding color spaces and proper LUT application prevents unwanted artifacts.