Overview
This guide details how to get the best image quality from Sony cameras using SLOG 3, covering dynamic range, exposure techniques, camera settings, and common pitfalls, with tips for both capturing and editing log footage.
Key Benefits of SLOG 3
- SLOG 3 offers the highest dynamic range when using the camera's native ISO, maximizing sensor performance.
- Color accuracy in SLOG 3 surpasses other profiles, especially for skin tones and color fidelity.
- Provides flexibility in post-production, allowing highlight and shadow recovery.
- At higher ISOs, SLOG 3 is cleaner than HLG or no picture profile, if exposed correctly.
RAW Video vs. SLOG 3
- RAW video does not increase dynamic range but allows post-shoot white balance adjustments.
- RAW recording disables in-camera noise reduction, which can be applied more effectively in post.
Bit Depth and Color Subsampling
- 8-bit versus 10-bit depth and subsampling (4:4:4, 4:2:2, 4:2:0) do not affect dynamic range.
- SLOG 3 is recommended only with 10-bit codecs; use Cine2 for 8-bit cameras.
Camera Modes and Settings
- Sony cameras have multiple log activation methods: Log Shooting Mode, Flexible ISO, and Picture Profile.
- Flexible ISO and Cine EI modes provide similar results, though Flexible ISO allows ISO adjustments beyond native points.
- Adjust detail/sharpening settings in Picture Profile for consistent output.
Exposure Best Practices
- Expose SLOG 3 footage to the right (ETR); aim for brighter images to minimize shadow noise and adjust exposure in post.
- Use native ISO values for optimal dynamic range; avoid ISO values near but not at native points, unless necessary.
- When higher exposure is needed, raising ISO above the second native ISO yields cleaner results than underexposing.
Exposure Tools and Workflows
- Import a LUT for -2 EV exposure (e.g., Alister Chapman’s LUT) to help judge proper in-camera exposure.
- Avoid Gamma Display Assist; it can cause underexposure and increased shadow noise.
- Zebras are preferred exposure tools; use Zebra 95 for highlights (sky), Zebra 75 for white skin tones.
- Histogram is less reliable due to its small size and lack of responsiveness on Sony cameras.
- Apply post-processing noise reduction if needed, but accept some noise as normal, even in professional films.
Low Light Shooting with SLOG 3
- SLOG 3 performs well in low light if exposure is set correctly, often cleaner than standard profiles at equivalent or higher ISOs.
- Do not be afraid to raise ISO in Flexible ISO mode for cleaner results in low light.
Recommendations for New Users
- Test SLOG 3 workflow thoroughly in varied conditions before using on client shoots.
- Learn exposure tools, how to use zebras, and develop a consistent color grading workflow.
Decisions
- Prefer Flexible ISO over Cine EI for more control over exposure, especially in challenging lighting.
- Recommend SLOG 3 only with 10-bit codecs; use Cine2 for 8-bit cameras.
Action Items
- TBD – User: Conduct tests with SLOG 3 in various settings to master exposure and workflow before professional use.
- TBD – User: Import or utilize a -2 EV LUT for proper in-camera exposure.
- TBD – User: Watch the follow-up tutorial on color grading SLOG 3 footage.