The iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max are the first smartphones to offer the option of recording video in ProRes, a professional video codec that preserves more detail and dynamic range than the standard HEVC (H.265) codec. But that’s not all: the iPhone 15 Pro models also let you choose between HDR, SDR, or Log color encoding when recording ProRes video. In this article, we will explain what log-encoded video is, how it differs from standard video, and what are the pros and cons of using it on the iPhone 15 Pro.
What is log-encoded video?
Log-encoded video is a way of capturing video that uses a logarithmic curve to map the brightness values of the scene. This means that the video looks very flat and desaturated, but it retains more information in the highlights and shadows than a linear curve. Log-encoded video is often used by professional filmmakers and videographers who want to have more flexibility and control over the color grading and exposure of their footage in post-production1.
How does log-encoded video differ from standard video?
Standard video, such as HDR or SDR, uses a linear or a gamma curve to map the brightness values of the scene. This means that the video looks more contrasty and saturated, but it also clips or crushes some of the details in the highlights and shadows. Standard video is often used by casual users who want to have a ready-to-share video that looks good without much editing1.
What are the pros of using log-encoded video on the iPhone 15 Pro?
One of the main advantages of using log-encoded video on the iPhone 15 Pro is that it gives you more creative possibilities and artistic expression in your videos. You can use Final Cut Pro, iMovie, or other editing software to apply different color grading presets, filters, or adjustments to your log-encoded footage and achieve various looks and moods12. You can also fine-tune the exposure, contrast, saturation, white balance, and other parameters of your log-encoded footage to match your vision or correct any errors12.
Another benefit of using log-encoded video on the iPhone 15 Pro is that it takes advantage of the high dynamic range and low noise performance of the new camera system. The iPhone 15 Pro models feature a larger sensor, a faster lens, and improved image signal processing that allow them to capture more light and detail in challenging lighting conditions3. By using log-encoded video, you can preserve more of this information and avoid overexposing or underexposing your footage12.
What are the cons of using log-encoded video on the iPhone 15 Pro?
One of the main drawbacks of using log-encoded video on the iPhone 15 Pro is that it requires more storage space and processing power than standard video. Log-encoded video is recorded in ProRes, which is a high-quality but also high-bitrate codec that consumes a lot of memory. For example, one minute of 4K 30fps ProRes video with log encoding takes up about 6 GB of storage space, compared to 190 MB for HEVC2. Log-encoded video also demands more CPU and GPU resources to encode and decode, which can affect the battery life and performance of your device2.
Another disadvantage of using log-encoded video on the iPhone 15 Pro is that it requires more skill and effort to edit and share than standard video. Log-encoded video looks dull and washed out straight out of the camera, so you need to apply some color correction and grading to make it look appealing12. This can be a time-consuming and complex process that involves using specialized software and tools. Moreover, not all platforms and devices support playing back log-encoded or ProRes videos, so you may need to convert them to a more compatible format before sharing them with others2.
Conclusion
Log-encoded video is a powerful feature that can enhance the quality and creativity of your videos on the iPhone 15 Pro. However, it also comes with some trade-offs that you need to consider before using it. Log-encoded video is best suited for professional or advanced users who want to have more control over their footage and are willing to invest more time and resources in editing and sharing it. Standard video is better suited for casual or beginner users who want to have a simple and convenient way of capturing and sharing their videos without much hassle.
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