C-Log 2 vs C-Log 3
Canon Log (or C-Log) is a family of Gamma Curves developed by Canon for its video and still cameras (such as the Cinema EOS and EOS R series). The purpose of shooting in a Log format is to maximize the camera sensor's dynamic range, allowing the image to retain the maximum possible detail in both the highlights (bright areas) and the shadows (dark areas). This results in a very "flat" looking image straight out of the camera, which is ideal for professional post-production (Color Grading).
C-Log 2 vs. C-Log 3 Comparison
C-Log 2 and C-Log 3 are the two most prominent and advanced Log curves on Canon's newer, high-end cameras. They both deliver excellent dynamic range, but they differ in how that range is distributed and the ease of post-production.
C-Log 3 was developed by Canon to address the user feedback that C-Log 2 was too flat and too noisy in the shadows for standard and fast-turnaround productions.
| Feature | C-Log 2 | C-Log 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Dynamic Range | Highest (can exceed 16 stops on some Cinema EOS cameras) | High (typically around 14 stops) |
| Image Flatness | Flattest. Lowest contrast and saturation. | Less flat than C-Log 2. Has more contrast, especially in the shadows and mid-tones. |
| Shadow Detail | Maximum retention of shadow information. | Excellent shadow retention, but slightly less aggressive than C-Log 2. |
| Noise Floor | More visible noise in the shadows. Since the curve compresses the toe (shadow area) so severely, pulling up the shadows in post can amplify the noise. | Cleaner/Less Noise in the shadows. The curve is specifically designed to manage the noise floor better, making it safer for underexposed shots. |
| Color Grading Difficulty | Highest. Requires precise exposure (often Expose to the Right - ETTR) and careful grading to avoid noise and restore color/contrast. | Lower/Easier. Easier to grade and quicker to match a standard Rec. 709 look (broadcast standard). |
| Best Use Case | High-end cinema and demanding productions. When absolute maximum dynamic range is required, and complex post-production is expected. | Faster turnaround projects, documentaries, news. When excellent dynamic range is needed with a cleaner image and a more efficient post-production workflow. |
In Summary:
- C-Log 2 is for maximum technical image quality and dynamic range, often at the expense of needing more complex post-production and meticulous exposure (ETTR).
- C-Log 3 is the most versatile and popular choice. It offers nearly the same high-end dynamic range as C-Log 2 (especially in the highlights) while providing a much cleaner shadow area and a more straightforward color grading process.
Is there a C-Log 1?
Yes, C-Log 1 exists.
- C-Log 1 (often just called Canon Log) is the original Log profile introduced by Canon.
- It was developed for earlier cameras, such as the original Canon EOS C300.
- Performance: C-Log 1 provides the lowest dynamic range of the three (typically around 12 stops).
- Curve: Its curve is the least "flat" and is the closest to the standard Rec. 709 video gamma, making it the easiest to grade back to a final look.
- Current Status: On newer, high-end cameras, C-Log 1 has largely been superseded by C-Log 3, which offers superior highlight retention and dynamic range while still being relatively easy to grade. However, it is sometimes included to allow users to match footage shot on older Canon cameras or to provide a simple Log option.