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Color ManagementIntermediate

CineonLog

Log-to-linear and linear-to-log conversion

Converts imagery between logarithmic and linear representations with selectable log profiles, levels, gamma and soft clipping.

CineonLog
DaVinci Resolve · Fusion

Converts imagery between logarithmic and linear representations with selectable log profiles, levels, gamma and soft clipping.

Overview

What CineonLog does

Converts imagery between logarithmic and linear representations with selectable log profiles, levels, gamma and soft clipping.

Think of CineonLog as a technical gateway between log-encoded footage and the linear image math often preferred for compositing.

Mental model

Think of CineonLog as a technical gateway between log-encoded footage and the linear image math often preferred for compositing.

Common uses

Convert camera log to linear before compositing
Return a linear composite to log
Match technical handling across different log sources
Control black/white levels and highlight knee during conversion

Flow anatomy

Inputs & outputs

The port structure shows how this node fits into a Fusion graph.

Input

Source image to process.

CineonLog
Fusion node

Output

The processed result from this node.

Inspector

Important parameters

Start with these controls before reaching for more complicated workarounds.

Depth

Sets the processing/output precision.

Mode

Chooses Log to Lin or Lin to Log.

Log Type

Selects the relevant log curve such as Cineon, ARRI LogC, BMD Film, S-Log, V-Log or DaVinci Intermediate.

Lock R/G/B

Links the RGB channel controls so they change together.

Level

Controls black and white conversion levels.

Soft Clip (Knee)

Softens highlight clipping through the conversion.

Film Stock Gamma

Adjusts the source film/log gamma model.

Conversion Gamma

Controls the conversion response.

Conversion Table

Allows an external conversion table when required.

Practical setup

A reliable workflow

  1. 1

    Identify the source log curve.

  2. 2

    Choose Log to Lin before linear-light compositing or Lin to Log for the return path.

  3. 3

    Set the correct Log Type.

  4. 4

    Check levels and highlight knee.

  5. 5

    Verify the round trip with scopes and a bypass comparison.

Typical node chain
Source
CineonLog
Output

Examples

Where this node fits in real work

Linear-light comp

Convert log footage before light-based effects.

MediaInCineonLog: Log to LinCompositeCineonLog: Lin to Log

Log normalization

Normalize a camera log plate before grading.

MediaInCineonLogColorCorrector

Troubleshooting

Common mistakes

Applying CineonLog before the image is in the technical state the node expects.
Pushing CineonLog too far before checking artifacts at full resolution.
Judging CineonLog on one still frame instead of checking motion and edge behavior.

Production notes

Practical tips

Compare CineonLog with bypass regularly while tuning it.
Keep CineonLog and other technical conversions separate from creative grading when possible.
After strong CineonLog processing, check alpha, highlights and image boundaries.

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