If you've downloaded a LUT pack, you've probably seen files ending in .cube and wondered what they actually are. The short answer: a .cube file is a portable, app-agnostic color look you can apply in one tap. Here's the full picture, and how to import your own into CreativePass.
What a LUT actually does
LUT stands for Look-Up Table. It's a mathematical map that takes every input color in your image and remaps it to a new output color. Feed in a flat, gray log frame and a LUT can hand back a punchy cinematic look instantly, consistently, every time. Because it's just a remap, the same LUT produces the same result on any image and in any app that supports it.
What's inside a .cube file
A .cube file is a plain-text file describing a 3D grid of color values, typically 17x17x17 or 33x33x33 points. Each point says "this input RGB becomes this output RGB," and the app smoothly interpolates everything in between. The bigger the grid, the more precise the transformation. There are two broad types: technical/conversion LUTs (for example, converting Sony S-Log3 to Rec.709) and creative/look LUTs (a stylized film look). Both live in the same .cube format.
Why .cube is the standard
The .cube format is supported across DaVinci Resolve, Premiere, Final Cut, and most mobile editors, which makes it the lingua franca of color. Buy or build a look once and you can use it everywhere, desktop or phone.
How to import a .cube LUT into CreativePass
- Get your .cube files onto your device by saving them to the Files app, iCloud Drive, or an external/USB drive.
- Open CreativePass and head to the LUT section.
- Import by pulling the .cube files in from Files, iCloud, or an external drive.
- Organize them into folders, mark favorites, and hide packs you're not using.
- Apply and dial in by tapping a LUT to preview it live and adjusting the intensity so it enhances rather than overwhelms.
Tips for using LUTs well
Apply your conversion LUT first if you're working with log footage, then layer a creative look on top. Almost always reduce the intensity from 100%. Most looks read better pulled back to 60–80%. And remember a LUT is a starting point, not the finish line: balance exposure and white balance first so the LUT lands on a clean image.
Bring your whole library with you
Because CreativePass imports standard .cube files and also offers a built-in cloud LUT store, you can mix your own packs with curated collections, all organized, all live-previewed, all on your phone.
Import your LUTs in CreativePass: Download CreativePass on the App Store.