LUTs (Look-Up Tables) are an essential tool for color grading in video editing. They allow you to quickly apply a specific "look" to your footage, from cinematic styles to corrective color transformations (like converting Log footage to Rec. 709). While DaVinci Resolve on the iPad offers incredible portability and power, importing custom LUTs can sometimes feel a bit like a scavenger hunt if you're not familiar with iOS file management.
But don't worry, we're here to guide you through it! By the end of this comprehensive guide, you'll be a pro at bringing your favorite LUTs into DaVinci Resolve on your iPad, ready to transform your footage with stunning colors.
The Ultimate Guide: How to Import LUTs into DaVinci Resolve on iPad
Before we begin, make sure you have your desired LUTs saved somewhere accessible on your iPad. This could be in your Downloads folder if you've recently downloaded them, or any other folder within the Files app. Most LUTs come in the .cube format, which is widely compatible. If they are in a .zip file, you'll need to unzip them first by simply tapping on the file in the Files app.
Let's dive in!
Step 1: Prepare Your LUTs in the Files App
Alright, aspiring colorist, let's kick things off! The first and most crucial step is to ensure your LUTs are properly organized and accessible within your iPad's file system.
Sub-heading: Getting Your LUTs Ready
- Locate your downloaded LUTs: Did you download a fantastic cinematic LUT pack from a website? Or maybe you created some custom LUTs on your desktop DaVinci Resolve and transferred them over? Whatever the source, locate these files. They'll typically be in your Downloads folder within the Files app.
- Unzip if necessary: If your LUTs are in a
.zipfile, you must unzip them. Simply tap on the.zipfile in the Files app, and iOS will automatically create a new folder containing the unzipped.cubefiles. - Consider organization: While not strictly necessary for the import process, it's a good practice to organize your LUTs into logical folders within the Files app (e.g., "Cinematic LUTs," "Log Conversion LUTs," "Custom Grades"). This will make them easier to manage later.
Step 2: Copy Your Desired LUTs
Now that your LUTs are ready, we need to copy them to the clipboard so we can paste them into DaVinci Resolve's specific LUT folder.
Sub-heading: Selecting and Copying
- Open the Files App: Navigate to where you saved or unzipped your LUTs.
- Select the LUTs:
- For a single LUT: Long-press on the individual
.cubefile. A context menu will appear. - For multiple LUTs or a folder of LUTs: Tap "Select" in the top right corner, then tap on each LUT or folder you want to copy. Once selected, tap the "..." (More) icon in the bottom right, and then choose "Copy."
- For a single LUT: Long-press on the individual
- Confirm Copy: After selecting "Copy," the files are now on your iPad's clipboard, ready for their new home.
Step 3: Navigate to DaVinci Resolve's LUT Folder
This is where the magic happens – finding the secret hideout for DaVinci Resolve's LUTs on your iPad!
Sub-heading: Finding the Destination
- In the Files App: From your current location, navigate back to the main "Browse" tab in the Files app.
- Tap "On My iPad": Under the "Locations" section, tap on "On My iPad." This shows you all the local storage folders for apps on your device.
- Locate "DaVinci Resolve": Scroll down until you find the folder named "DaVinci Resolve." Tap on it.
- Find the "LUT" folder: Inside the DaVinci Resolve folder, you'll see a folder specifically named "LUT." This is where all your custom LUTs need to go. Tap to open it.
Step 4: Paste Your LUTs into the DaVinci Resolve Folder
You're almost there! Now it's time to paste those copied LUTs into their designated spot.
Sub-heading: Placing Your LUTs
- Paste the LUTs: Long-press on an empty area within the "LUT" folder you just opened. A context menu will appear.
- Tap "Paste": Select "Paste" from the options. You'll see your LUTs or LUT folders appear in this directory.
Congratulations! Your LUT files are now physically located in the correct folder for DaVinci Resolve to access.
Step 5: Update LUT Lists in DaVinci Resolve
Even though the LUTs are in the folder, DaVinci Resolve needs a little nudge to recognize them.
Sub-heading: Refreshing the Library
- Launch DaVinci Resolve: Open the DaVinci Resolve app on your iPad.
- Access Project Settings: In the bottom right corner of the DaVinci Resolve interface, tap on the gear icon () to open the Project Settings.
- Go to Color Management: In the Project Settings window, select the "Color Management" tab on the left-hand side.
- Update Lists: Scroll down a bit in the Color Management section until you see the "Lookup Tables" subheading. Here, you'll find a button that says "Update Lists." Tap on this button.
DaVinci Resolve will now scan its designated LUT folder and integrate your newly added LUTs into its library.
Step 6: Apply Your Newly Imported LUTs
The moment of truth! Let's apply those fresh LUTs to your footage and see the difference.
Sub-heading: Enhancing Your Footage
- Open the Color Page: Navigate to the Color page () in DaVinci Resolve (the third icon from the left at the bottom, usually represented by color wheels).
- Access the LUTs Panel: On the left-hand side of the Color page, you'll see several panels. Look for the "LUTs" panel. Tap on it to expand it.
- Find Your LUTs:
- If you imported a single LUT, you'll find it listed alphabetically within the main LUTs folder.
- If you imported a folder of LUTs, you'll see your folder listed alphabetically. Tap on your folder to reveal the LUTs inside.
- Apply the LUT:
- Drag and Drop: Simply drag your chosen LUT from the LUTs panel onto an empty node in your node tree. This is the most common and flexible way to apply LUTs, as it allows you to control its intensity and combine it with other grades.
- Right-Click/Long-Press on Node: Alternatively, you can long-press on an existing node in your node tree, go to "3D LUT," and select your desired LUT from the list.
- Adjust Intensity (Optional): Many LUTs are designed to be a starting point. If the effect is too strong, you can adjust the key output of the node the LUT is on in the Node Editor to reduce its intensity.
Voila! You've successfully imported and applied a custom LUT to your footage in DaVinci Resolve on your iPad. Experiment with different LUTs and see how they can transform your video projects!
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to check if my iPad supports DaVinci Resolve?
Your iPad needs to be an iPad Pro with an M1 chip or newer (M2, M4) for optimal performance and access to all features. Earlier iPad models might be restricted to HD resolution and have limited features due to memory constraints.
How to transfer LUTs from my computer to my iPad?
You can transfer LUTs via AirDrop, iCloud Drive, or by connecting your iPad to your computer and using Finder (Mac) or iTunes (Windows) to drag and drop files into the DaVinci Resolve folder within the Files app.
How to unzip LUT files on my iPad?
Simply tap on the .zip file in the Files app. iOS has a built-in unzipper that will automatically extract the contents into a new folder.
How to organize my LUTs within DaVinci Resolve?
Organize your LUTs by creating subfolders within the main "LUT" directory in the Files app before you paste them. DaVinci Resolve will then display these folders in its LUTs panel, making it easy to categorize and find your looks.
How to remove a LUT from DaVinci Resolve on iPad?
To remove a LUT, simply go to the DaVinci Resolve > LUT folder in the Files app and delete the .cube file or folder you wish to remove. Then, go back into DaVinci Resolve's Project Settings > Color Management and tap "Update Lists" to refresh.
How to apply a LUT to multiple clips at once?
You can apply a LUT to multiple clips by selecting them in the timeline and then applying the LUT to a group node (if you have created a group) or by applying the LUT to an adjustment clip placed above your footage.
How to adjust the intensity of a LUT in DaVinci Resolve iPad?
In the Color page, select the node where your LUT is applied. In the Node Editor, locate the "Key Output" slider (it often looks like a diamond or a small square). Drag this slider to the left to reduce the LUT's intensity.
How to create my own LUTs in DaVinci Resolve iPad?
While advanced LUT creation is typically done on the desktop version, you can create a basic LUT from a graded clip on the iPad. On the Color page, long-press on a clip thumbnail, select "Generate 3D LUT (CUBE)," and save it to your DaVinci Resolve LUT folder in the Files app.
How to troubleshoot if my imported LUTs are not showing up?
- Double-check the file path: Ensure your LUTs are exactly in
On My iPad > DaVinci Resolve > LUT. - Verify file format: Make sure they are
.cubefiles (or other supported formats like.dat). - Update Lists: Remember to tap "Update Lists" in Project Settings > Color Management.
- Restart DaVinci Resolve: Sometimes a full app restart can resolve minor glitches.
How to use LUTs effectively for color grading in DaVinci Resolve?
- Start with Log footage: LUTs are most powerful when applied to flat, uncorrected Log footage from professional cameras.
- Primary corrections first: Perform basic exposure, white balance, and contrast adjustments before applying a creative LUT.
- Use adjustment clips or nodes: Apply LUTs on separate nodes or adjustment clips for better control and flexibility.
- Don't overdo it: Use LUTs as a starting point, not the final grade. Adjust intensity and fine-tune colors afterward.