How to Import LUTs in DaVinci Resolve (Super Simple Guide)

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import luts in davinci

If you want your video to look clean, cinematic, and consistent, LUTs make that fast. The good news: adding them to DaVinci Resolve is easy. Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide you can follow right now.

What is a LUT (in plain English)?

A LUT is a ready-made color “look.” You drop it on your clip, and it shifts colors and contrast to a new style.

  • Technical LUTs: convert flat/log footage (like Sony S-Log3) to normal Rec.709.
  • Creative LUTs: add style (cinematic, warm, film-like).

You can use both: convert first, then style.

Part 1 — Install / Import LUTs into DaVinci Resolve

add-luts-to-davinci

Do this once. After that, your LUTs will be available in all projects.

  1. Open DaVinci Resolve.
  2. Click the gear icon at the bottom right (Project Settings).
  3. Go to Color Management.
  4. Find the Lookup Tables (LUTs) section.
  5. Click Open LUT Folder. A system folder will pop up.
    • Mac path:
      /Library/Application Support/Blackmagic Design/DaVinci Resolve/LUT/
    • Windows path:
      C:\ProgramData\Blackmagic Design\DaVinci Resolve\Support\LUT\
  6. Drag your LUT files (usually .cube) or full LUT folders into this LUT folder. It’s recommended to create a folder with any name and put all your LUTs files inside that folder.
    • Tip: keep things tidy. Create folders like Sony_SLog3, Creative_Cinematic, etc.
  7. Back in Resolve, click Update Lists (or Refresh LUTs).
  8. Click Save.

That’s it. Your LUTs are now installed.

Verifying the Imported Files

davinci LUTs
  • At the bottom, click on Color icon/option.
  • Then Select LUTs option/icon
  • Your added LUTs should already show there. If it doesn’t right click and hit the Refresh option.

Final Thoughts

Importing and using LUTs in DaVinci Resolve is simple: load them once, refresh, and you’re ready. Start with a technical transform (if you shot log), blend in a creative LUT lightly, then adjust exposure and color to taste. Your videos will look consistent, cinematic, and professional—without extra fuss.