Adding Lookup Tables (LUTs) to DaVinci Resolve involves importing color grading presets that modify the appearance of video footage. These files, typically with extensions like .cube or .3dl, contain mathematical transformations that remap the color values of each pixel, allowing for consistent and stylized looks. As an example, a user might import a cinematic LUT designed to emulate the color palette of a specific film stock.
Employing LUTs within a color grading workflow significantly streamlines the process of achieving desired visual aesthetics. They provide a starting point for color correction and grading, reducing the time and effort required to manually adjust individual color parameters. This method offers consistency across multiple clips and projects, ensuring a uniform visual style. The use of LUTs has become increasingly prevalent in post-production as digital filmmaking has matured, providing a bridge between technical correction and artistic expression.