How to Create Custom LUTs with Color Match Plugin

In this blog, we’ll guide you through creating your own LUTs (Lookup Tables) for use in Luminar Neo and other photo editing applications. This simple yet powerful technique allows you to enhance your images by borrowing color schemes from other photos, and it all starts with the Color Match Plugin by Retouch4Me.

What is the Color Match Plugin?

The Color Match Plugin is a versatile tool that helps you create custom LUTs by sampling colors from any reference photo you like. Whether you’re working within Photoshop, Lightroom, Capture One, or using it as a standalone application, the Color Match Plugin allows you to effortlessly capture the look of any photo and apply it to your images.

Try Color Match for Free

If you’d like to try the Color Match Plugin before committing, you can download a free demo version. Click here to try Color Match for free. Once you click on the link, scroll down to "Retouch4me Color Match," and you’ll find the download link for the demo version.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating LUTs with the Color Match Plugin

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating and using LUTs with the Color Match Plugin.

Step 1: Prepare Your Sample Image

Start by preparing the image you want to edit. For this demonstration, we used Luminar Neo and adjusted the photo using the Develop RAW, Structure AI, and Details tools. Adjust exposure, contrast, highlights, shadows, sharpening, and noise reduction to achieve the desired base look.

Once you're satisfied with the initial edits, export the image. To do this in Luminar Neo:

• Right-click on the image and select Export.
• Choose a high-quality JPEG format, set the resolution to 300 pixels per inch, and adjust the quality to 100%.
• Rename the image, for example, “Image for LUT,” and save it.

Step 2: Load the Image into Color Match Plugin

Next, open the Color Match Plugin:

• Click on Select Image and navigate to where you saved your sample image.
• Choose the image and click Open.

Step 3: Select Your Reference Image

To borrow colors, you’ll need a reference image. You can find royalty-free images on sites like Unsplash.com. Download the images you like and store them in a folder.

• In the Color Match Plugin, click on Load Reference and navigate to your folder with reference images.
• Select an image and click Open. The plugin will scan the reference image and apply its colors to your sample photo.

Not every reference image will be a perfect match. Use the navigation arrows to cycle through different images until you find the look you prefer.

Step 4: Adjust the Settings

Now, let’s fine-tune the applied look using the plugin’s adjustment sliders:

• Blend: This slider works like an opacity control, allowing you to adjust the intensity of the color match. Start around 80% and tweak it to suit your image.
• Luminance: Adjust how much of the luminance from the reference image is applied to your photo. 
• Color: This adjusts the degree of color matching. Starting at 80% often yields a balanced look.
• Smoothing: Use this to smooth the overall color transitions, although leaving it at zero might work best for some images.

Fine-tune these sliders until you achieve your desired look.

Step 5: Save Your Custom LUT

Once you’re satisfied with the color adjustments:

• Click Export LUT to save the color scheme as a LUT file.
• Choose a location, name your LUT (e.g., “Seascape Sunrise”), and click Save.

Step 6: Apply Your Custom LUT in Luminar Neo

To use your new LUT in Luminar Neo:

• Navigate to the Creative section of the toolbar and select the Mood tool.
• Click Choose LUT, then Add Custom LUT File.
• Find your saved LUT and click Add.

Adjust the amount slider to increase or decrease the LUT’s effect on your image. You can further tweak contrast and saturation to refine the final look.

Why Use LUTs in Your Photo Editing?

LUTs are an incredible way to save and apply unique looks across multiple photos. Whether you’re aiming for consistency across a project or simply want to explore new creative styles, custom LUTs are a game-changer.

Get 20% Off Color Match Plugin

If you’re ready to purchase the Color Match Plugin, use our exclusive discount code to get 20% off! Click here to buy the plugin.

Conclusion

Creating your own LUTs with the Color Match Plugin is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. With just a few clicks, you can capture and save stunning looks inspired by your favorite images and easily apply them in your editing workflow.