JUAN MELARA – P6K2Alexa LUTs | GFXVault

In November 2019, I purchased a BMPCC 6K to complement the ARRI Alexa that I typically use for my shoots. My goal was to have a lighter and more compact camera that could seamlessly live on a gimbal. To achieve consistent color matching between the BMPCC 6K and the ARRI Alexa, I profiled the sensor using techniques similar to those I used for profiling the Alexa sensor and various film stocks. This approach allowed me to build a custom 3x3 matrix that accurately matches both cameras, providing numerous advantages over using a standard LUT.

Gfx Plugin Details of JUAN MELARA – P6K2Alexa LUTs:

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What's New in JUAN MELARA – P6K2Alexa LUTs:

Updated PowerGrade Variant: The PowerGrade version now includes an ACES variant for Resolve ACES workflows, enhancing compatibility and functionality. Check the update history at the bottom of the page for more details.

P6K2Alexa vs. a Real Alexa:

The comparison images were captured simultaneously, with the P6K mounted on the Alexa's top handle, resulting in a slight perspective difference. The Alexa used a Zeiss Milvus 35mm lens, while the P6K used a Zeiss Milvus 25mm lens, cropped to match the field of view. Both cameras shot at ISO 800, with F-stop ranging from F5.6-11 and a shutter angle of 11.25°, without ND filters. The P6K images feature only exposure adjustments, while the Alexa images are untouched. For a detailed comparison, open each image in a new tab to view the full resolution.

The Creation Process:

The P6K sensor was profiled using the same process employed for the Alexa and various film stocks. This method involves shooting a series of charts at multiple exposures, covering the entire dynamic range of the sensor or film stock. The charts include swatches that span the full 360 degrees of color, each at different intensities, providing the sensor with comprehensive image data. This process generates approximately 14,000 data points for each camera.

I then imported this data into Resolve, linearized the P6K BMDFilm footage, and created a custom 3x3 matrix to match the color response of the P6K to that of the Alexa. Because this is done using a matrix, the results are closer to a technical transform than a simple look match LUT or a complex profiled match LUT.

Technical Transform vs. Profiled LUTs:

The traditional method of matching cameras using profiled LUTs involves running the data from each camera through software like MatchLight IMS, which creates a LUT that matches the two. While this method works well for matching digital to film, it is unnecessarily complex and rigid for digital-to-digital matching.

A 3x3 matrix/technical transform reshapes the entire color response of one sensor to match another, providing a cleaner and more elegant approach to matching digital sensors. This method maintains accuracy across various conditions without requiring multiple profiles for different lighting scenarios.

Creating the LUT Versions:

For the LUT versions, I designed them to mitigate some common LUT issues. These LUTs feature the same 3x3 matrix but in LUT form, allowing them to handle values exceeding 1.0, which is crucial for BMPCC footage with highlight recovery or high ISO settings. Note that not all software supports LUTs that access image data above 1.0, and I am working on resolving compatibility issues with certain programs like Lumetri in Premiere Pro.

Conclusion:

JUAN MELARA – P6K2Alexa LUTs provide a professional solution for matching BMPCC 6K footage to ARRI Alexa quality. Available at GFXVault, these LUTs offer precise color grading and seamless integration into your video editing workflow. Enhance your footage with the advanced color matching capabilities of P6K2Alexa LUTs and achieve stunning, professional results.