Creative Grading – Blending LUTs

Mixing and Matching For Messed Up Looks

I’ve spoken to many colourists over the years at events, lectures and even down the pub drinking a pint of beer.

One technique that I’ve heard many times but always seem to forget about (probably too much beer)

Is the idea is blending LUTs together?

I’m sure one colourist told me that one particular video he was running 4 or 5 LUTs in various combinations to achieve the end result.

A quick note to start things off is I know this is technically a bad way of grading…I’ll be destroying detail, things will be inverting and getting pushed far beyond the limits that they were intended to.

This is more about myself experimenting to get some whacky results.

Before And After

This is far easier explained in the video insight below but i’ll be looking at the following:

• Adding LUTs In Serial
• Blending LUTs via Qualifiers
• Using Blending Modes
• Mixing In An Original Image To Restore Some Detail

This technique is not for everyone but if you like the break the rules like I do you will have a lot of fun with this!

If you have any requests for more looks please let me know as I had a lot of fun creating this insight.

If you’ve got any questions, be sure to leave a comment!

-Dan