The Basics of LUTs: A Quick Primer for Using RED LUTS
Introduction to LUTs
A LUT or Lookup Table is an industry standard color tool for advanced filmmakers.
In practical terms, a LUT allows filmmakers to view how their video footage captured with a Log tone mode, such as Nikon’s N-Log, will look after it’s been color graded in the final edit.
Photographers can think of a LUT as a Picture Control, which alters how your image looks. LUTs, however, are only applicable to videos and are installed in monitors and in software.
There are two types of LUTs, Creative LUTs and Technical LUTs. Creative LUTs give your video footage a specific creative look, in a similar way to Picture Controls found in Nikon cameras. Technical LUTs simply convert flat Log footage into a standard, real-world look.
RED LUTs on Nikon Cameras
4 Creative LUTs from RED are available to use with all N-Log compatible Nikon cameras. They include classic film-inspired looks created by professional Hollywood filmmakers.
To view and learn more about RED LUTs for Nikon N-Log, including 4 Creative LUTs and a Technical LUT compatible with all N-Log footage, you can visit www.nikonusa.com/redluts.
View examples of the four creative RED LUTs—Achromic, Film Bias, Film Bias Bleach Bypass and Film Bias Offset—that can be used with select Nikon digital cameras.
Using a LUT during Production
To use a LUT on a compatible camera, you must install the LUT on an third-party external monitor. Ensure that your monitor supports LUTs and then follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Using a LUT in Post-Production Software
To use a LUT in your third-party editing software, you must first install the LUT onto the software. Ensure that your program supports LUTs and then follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Compatible Nikon Cameras
The following cameras, when set to the N-Log tone mode, are compatible with RED LUTs: Z9, Z8, Z6III, Zf, Z6II, Z6, Z7II, Z7 and D780.
