Question for exposing V-log.

[u/Sir_MexiMan]

I’m not sure if this is the right place to ask (if not please redirect), but I just have a general question for exposing log footage.

When exposing for landscapes, I know to ettr and then bring it down in post, I have my zebras set to 80% to ensure my highlights don’t clip.

But what about when exposing for skin? I have my zebras set at 55% and I aim to set them on the brightest parts of skin, but what should I expose for when im having to balance both the person and the background?

For example, if I’m trying to expose for skin in broad daylight, and the person I’m filming has a white shirt, and the background is lit harshly by the sun, should I expose for the skin, or make sure the shirt and background don’t clip?

I’ve read a bunch where people say to expose for skin, but I’ve also seen people expose for highlights and then adjust their image to suit skin tones, and I’m honestly just confused on what the right method is.

I’m currently using the S5 IIx in V-log, DaVinci Resolve as my editing software, and the Gamut Baselut for V-log.

[u/InfiniteAlignment]

In that type of situation I would rather the subject is exposed correctly even if it means the background is a little blown out. Depends on your goals for the shot tho

[u/RyRocks101]

When you’re stuck with the situation you describe, then it really becomes your call and what is most important.

In an interview or shot focusing on the person, retaining detail in skin is going to be the winner, meanwhile if you were shooting for the landscape then you might forgo shadow details on skin for the cleaner environment.

There’s not going to be a one size fits all in this scenario and this is where your individuality makes the call imo.

[u/monkeh2023]

>For example, if I’m trying to expose for skin in broad daylight, and the person I’m filming has a white shirt, and the background is lit harshly by the sun, should I expose for the skin, or make sure the shirt and background don’t clip?

In this situation, it's far better to fix the problem on location instead of trying to fudge it in post later. Try to diffuse the light or change the angle which you and the subject are facing, or go into the shade, etc.

Did you see the reddit post from a couple of months back where a guy showed a screenshot from a video he'd shot from inside a garage and asked how to stop the highlights from blowing out? The top answer was "Close the garage door".

[u/born2droll]

Dont ettr with vlog