2-2 Canon Log 2/Canon log 3
This section covers the differences and applications of Canon Log 2 and Canon Log 3, which are presets intended for color grading.
| Canon Log 2 | Canon Log 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Shadow characteristics | Shadow tones are wide, with rich shadow gradations. Shadow details are easy to check. | Shadow tones are narrow. |
| Film characteristics and ITU-R BT.709 compatibility | Close to film characteristics. The linear range in a semi-logarithmic graph is wide, enabling manipulation of the exposure while maintaining the color and luminance tones. |
Like Canon Log, images are similar to ITU-R BT.709, but highlights are longer than Canon Log. |
| Post processing | Although this offers a greater degree of freedom, it necessitates significant grading work such as contrast and color correction. Applying an LUT such as CMT 709 makes the grading process easier. |
Grading work such as contrast and color correction are comparatively easier. |
| Sensitization margins | Increasing the gain results in approximately two stops of highlight leeway. | N/A |
| Recommended users | Those used to grading movie with film and Log characteristics. Sensitization margins result in a greater degree of freedom over grading, making it possible to obtain the exact image style you have in mind. | Even if you are not used to grading Log, this makes grading relatively easy. |
We recommend using Canon Log 2, which is similar to film characteristics, and Canon Log 3, which reduces noise, to suit the scene, work flow, and output application as needed.
Models such as the EOS R3, EOS R5, and EOS R6 Mark II featured Canon Log setting items on an independent menu, however, the EOS R1 and EOS R5 Mark II allow you to configure settings using Custom Picture in the menu.
Canon Log 2 and Canon Log 3 comparison images
Overall image (Canon Log 2)
Canon Log 2 (enlarged shadows)
Canon Log 3 (enlarged shadows)
Comparison of Canon Log 3 straight from the camera and image converted to color space BT.709
Canon Log 3 (straight from the camera)
Canon Log 3 (converted to color space BT.709 for contrast and color adjustment)
Compared to Canon Log 3, Canon Log 2 offers richer gradations, making it effective for expressing shadows.