Applying a video filter is a quick and powerful way to set the tone, evoke emotion, and give your footage a cinematic feel. In this guide, we walk you through how to add custom filters—online, in Adobe Premiere Pro, and on mobile devices—so you can elevate any video project.
What You’ll Learn
• The fundamentals of video filter overlays and key adjustment settings (intensity, contrast, color temperature, etc.)
• Step‑by‑step instructions for three popular workflows: an online editor, Premiere Pro, and a mobile app.
• Tips for fine‑tuning each filter to match your creative vision.
Adding Filters Online with FlexClip
FlexClip is a web‑based editor that combines flexibility with an intuitive timeline, making it ideal for quick filter applications without the need for software installation.
Key Features: 20 fully‑customizable filters, preset aspect ratios for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and more, plus a library of 4M+ free assets.
1️⃣ Upload Your Footage
Import video files from your PC or phone directly into FlexClip.
2️⃣ Arrange on the Timeline
Drag the clip onto the timeline. Trim, split, or delete segments to create a rough cut.
3️⃣ Apply a Filter
Click the Filter button, choose a style (e.g., Vintage, Lomo, Retro, Chromatic, Moody, B&W), and the effect will overlay automatically. Use the slider to control intensity.
4️⃣ Fine‑Tune Settings
Press Adjust to tweak contrast, brightness, color temperature, saturation, highlights, shadows, and vignettes for the desired look.
Before and after examples show the dramatic impact a filter can have.
Adding Filters in Adobe Premiere Pro
Premiere Pro offers two primary methods for applying filters: built‑in Lumetri presets and LUTs.
Option 1 – Lumetri Presets
1️⃣ Add Clip to Timeline
Place your footage on the timeline.
2️⃣ Apply a Preset
Open the Effects panel, navigate to Lumetri Presets, and explore categories like Cinematic, Filmstocks, Monochrome, Speedlocks, and Technical. Drag the desired preset onto the clip.
Option 2 – Using a LUT
1️⃣ Import LUT
Download a free LUT package, then import it via File > Import or by dragging it into the project.
2️⃣ Apply in Color Workspace
Go to the Color tab, open Creative > Look > Browse, and select your LUT. The LUT will overlay as a filter.
3️⃣ Adjust Color Parameters
Use the Lumetri Color panel to modify intensity, vibrance, saturation, and employ Color Wheels or Curves for precise control over highlights, shadows, and mid‑tones.
Adding Filters on iPhone or Android with CapCut
CapCut is a free, cross‑platform editor that delivers a wide array of filters and effects.
1️⃣ Import Your Video
Open CapCut, tap New Project, and load your clip into the timeline.
2️⃣ Apply a Filter
Select the Filters icon, choose from categories such as nature, food, retro, movies, or style, and apply the filter. Adjust intensity with the slider.
CapCut’s real‑time preview lets you instantly see the result.
Wrap‑Up
Filters are an efficient way to color‑grade footage without starting from scratch. Whether you’re editing on the web, desktop, or mobile, the right filter can instantly elevate the visual quality of your videos.
Which workflow suits your projects best? Share your experience on social media and let us know in the comments!
Professional video editors and marketers are always looking for fresh techniques. We hope these tips help you create stunning videos that resonate with your audience.