> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://support.skylum.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://support.skylum.com/luminar-neo-tips/what-is-difference-between-presets-and-mood-luts.md).

# What is difference between Presets and Mood (LUTs)?

Understand the key differences between using presets and Mood (LUTs) in Luminar Neo, and how each can dramatically affect the look and feel of your photos.

Both **presets** and **LUTs** are tools for transforming the visual style of your image—changing its light, hue, and tone. However, they serve slightly different purposes and are applied differently.

***

{% @arcade/embed flowId="fGaxhXXLzj6jaoVAnDGJ" url="<https://app.arcade.software/share/fGaxhXXLzj6jaoVAnDGJ>" %}

### 🧩 Key Differences

#### 📷 What is a Preset?

A **preset** is a saved group of edits that can be instantly applied to a photo. These include:

* Exposure
* Contrast
* White balance
* Color (HSL, curves)
* Toning
* Structure
* Sharpness
* ...and more

{% hint style="success" %}
**Example:** In **Luminar Neo**, a preset can combine various tools and even include a LUT (Mood)
{% endhint %}

**Main features:**

* Instantly applies to one or more images
* Each adjustment can be modified independently
* Offers the most flexibility for creating unique styles
* Can be saved and reused across projects

#### 🎞️ What is a LUT (Mood)?

A **LUT (Look Up Table)** is a file that remaps colors in an image to create a specific color effect or "mood".

**Main features:**

* Adjusts **color**, **contrast**, and **tone** uniformly
* Cannot be fine-tuned as precisely as presets
  * In Luminar Neo, only amount, contrast, and saturation can be adjusted
* Great for creating cinematic, vintage, or color-matched looks

{% hint style="warning" %}
&#x20;**Important:** A **preset can include a LUT**, but a LUT cannot include a preset.
{% endhint %}

### 🕐 When to Use What?

#### ✅ Use a Preset When You Want To:

* Dramatically transform the **entire look** of a photo
* Apply a consistent editing style to a series
* Standardize edits across multiple images
* Customize individual elements like structure, skin tones, light, etc.

#### ✅ Use a LUT (Mood) When You Want To:

* Apply a **precise color grade**
* Match color tones from different cameras
* Give photos a specific **color aesthetic** (e.g. cinematic or vintage)

### 📝 Summary

| Feature          | Preset                       | LUT (Mood)                             |
| ---------------- | ---------------------------- | -------------------------------------- |
| **Scope**        | Broad range of edits         | Color and tonal changes                |
| **Customizable** | Yes (each tool individually) | Limited (amount, contrast, saturation) |
| **Use case**     | Unique, personalized style   | Cinematic or color-matching looks      |
| **Included in**  | Can include a LUT            | Cannot include a preset                |


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