Picture profiles: standard, HLG and S-Log explained
Picture profiles change how your camera records color and dynamic range. Learn when to use standard profiles, HLG and S-Log3.
Sony cameras offer picture profiles that determine how footage looks straight out of camera and how much it can be edited.
Standard and Creative Looks
Ready-to-use color with good contrast. Ideal for fast turnaround, social media and when you will not color grade.
HLG
Hybrid Log-Gamma offers more dynamic range than standard while still looking good without grading. A good middle ground.
S-Log3
Captures maximum dynamic range and grading flexibility, but looks gray and flat. Requires correct exposure and color grading with a LUT.
Exposing S-Log3
Expose slightly brighter, around +1 to +1.7 stops. Underexposed S-Log footage reveals noise in shadows. Minimum ISO is higher, often 800.
Use 10-bit
Record in 10-bit 4:2:2 when using log profiles. 8-bit log footage can break up into bands when graded.
Which to choose
- Quick social content: standard or a Creative Look
- Weddings and events with mixed light: HLG or S-Log3
- Commercial work with color grading: S-Log3
