How to Expose V-Log

In this lesson I explain how to expose V-Log correctly:

Download Video (1080p) | Download Video (540p)

If you haven’t already, download my cheat sheet here.

What is V-Log L and how’s it different from V-Log?

V-Log L is the “light” version of V-Log, the log format found in the Panasonic Varicam. Log provides you a flatter image with the most dynamic range possible. You get a maximum of 12 stops in V-Log L, and this is the mode you choose for highest dynamic range for video.

Both V-Log L and V-Log have approximately the same gamma curve and you could use the same LUTs designed for the Varicam.

If both V-Log L and V-Log are the same, why have an “L”?

The Varicam has an extended color gamut (V-Gamut) that the GH5 cannot match. If the color gamuts don’t match the output results from V-Log LUTs will not be similar, especially in the case of third-party LUTs created for the Varicam. However, with the VLT LUTs, Panasonic’s engineers would have tried to mimic the color science so you can match the GH5 with the Varicam (which means Alexa as well) and use the former as a B-cam, drone cam or crash cam.

To get V-Log you need to purchase an additional license for $97 (B&H) or so. This is how you install it:

If you don’t understand the difference between Log, RAW and compressed codecs, this video will help:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9yHmiV2tn8k