Log Recording

method of video capture that encodes sensor data using a logarithmic curve to preserve maximum dynamic range in the recorded file. Log-encoded footage appears flat, desaturated, and low-contrast because the encoding allocates more data to the midtones and shadows where the human eye is most sensitive, rather than clipping highlights or crushing blacks. Each camera manufacturer has proprietary log curves—Sony S-Log3, Canon C-Log2, Panasonic V-Log, ARRI Log-C—each optimized for their sensor's characteristics. Log footage requires a LUT or color transform for proper viewing and is the standard capture format for any production planning to do serious color grading. The choice to shoot log is a foundational workflow decision that affects every downstream department from dailies through conform to final delivery.