What Is LOG Footage?

By Kevin Graham

Every filmmaker has probably heard of LOG footage. But what does this mean, and how is it different from other video formats?

The big defining characteristic of LOG is its flat image profile. It looks this way because LOG retains a lot more color information than other footage types.

So while LOG may not look pretty out of the box, it actually gives you much more flexibility when color correcting and color grading your footage.

There are also LUTs available online for virtually every type of LOG. Some cameras can even apply LUTs in the monitor so you don’t have to view flat footage as you’re filming.

Most modern cameras have the option to shoot in LOG, and even to adjust settings in more detail.

The bottom line is that if you value color flexibility and you don’t mind a few extra steps in the editing and color process, LOG is a great footage profile that gives you more control over your image.

Kevin is the Music Director and Lead Composer at Filmpac.