Slog-3 sucks. It’s hard to expose. Everyone has different methods. And you never know if you’ve nailed your exposure until the footage is in your grading software. So all you can do is hope. If you messed up, unpack everything and reshoot. Major time-suck. But I craved slog-3’s high dynamic range, so I accepted this as an unavoidable risk. If only there was a faster slog-3 workflow.
Guess what? I discovered a way to fix it.
The Key to a Faster Slog-3 Workflow: External Monitors
External monitors let you upload LUTS. And these LUTS let you see what your footage will look like roughly graded – in camera while you’re shooting.
I always thought this process was too difficult and big of a hassle. But I realized it’s even more of a hassle to deal with a potential mistake every time you shoot.
Most use this function for creative grading, but I made my job easier by using it for basic color correction.
Upload an Slog-3 -> Rec 709 LUT into your HDMI monitor. Now you can immediately check for correct exposure, making adjustments more precise. No more unnecessary tweaking just to get a base grade in post. I will never again shoot slog-3 without taking advantage of this feature.
The Atomos Ninja V, what I currently use, comes with a slog-3 to rec 709 LUT. But, if you do not have an Atomos Ninja V, I’ve made a LUT for you.
I shot my entire last video using this LUT, and it saved me hours of color grading in post. I now film all my self-tapes this way so I can send professional material to casting directors.
How to Install
Refer to your monitor’s manual for specific instructions. The Atomos Ninja V makes installation simple.
1. Plug your external monitor into your computer.
2. Drag and drop the LUT into the root file directory of the memory card.
3. The LUT should now be available! Just navigate to the LUTs screen and tap once. Voila!
Finally, a Faster Slog-3 Workflow
I’m now 100% confident my exposure is correct on set, and I no longer struggle coloring my footage. Viewing my LUT on the monitor has given me so much creative freedom. Use this method and start off on the right foot. No more surprises, no more wasted time.
Questions?
Email me: https://krishnathekumar.com/question-submission-form/
What’s next?
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