Difference Between RAW, LOG, and Rec 709 Camera Footage

When producing video, it's important to understand the differences between the various color spaces and color gamuts that are available. This can help you make informed decisions about how to capture, edit, and display your video content.
One of the most common color spaces used in video production is Rec. 709. This color space is defined by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and is used as the standard for HDTV and most modern consumer displays. It has a relatively narrow color gamut, meaning that it can't reproduce as wide a range of colors as some other color spaces.
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Difference Between RAW, LOG, and Rec 709 Camera Footage

What is Log
Another commonly used color space is Log. This is a logarithmic color space that is often used in high-dynamic-range (HDR) video production. It has a much wider color gamut than Rec. 709, allowing it to reproduce a greater range of colors. However, it can be more difficult to work with because the image appears washed out and requires specialized software to process the footage correctly.
RAW is a type of video format that captures all of the data from the image sensor of a camera without any processing. This allows for greater flexibility in post-production, as the footage can be adjusted to a specific color space or gamut. However, RAW video files are often large and can be difficult to work with because they require specialized software to process and edit.
In summary, Rec. 709 is a widely used standard for HDTV and consumer displays, with a relatively narrow color gamut. Log is a logarithmic color space with a wider color gamut that is often used in HDR video production. RAW is a raw, unprocessed video format that offers greater flexibility in post-production, but can be more difficult to work with. Understanding the differences between these color spaces and gamuts can help you make informed decisions about how to capture, edit, and display your video content.

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