View Full Version : Recommend black level settings?


Sam Renkin
February 10th, 2011, 06:30 PM
I used my Z5 on a recent two-camera interview shoot in a studio environment (the other was a V1). All the settings were matched as closely as possible (gain, iris, shutter, WB etc) but the blacks on my Z5 were a little washed out by comparison. The V1 actually appeared to have more contrast and color depth. I'm wondering if it's the greater sensitivity of the chips in the Z5, or perhaps the black levels need to be tweaked? I've never monkeyed around with the picture profiles or black level settings on my camera, could some of you recommend some settings you've used if the factory defaults aren't giving you the best image? Thanks!

Sam

Mark Andersson
February 21st, 2011, 06:13 AM
Hi Sam,

I use Master Black set to - 6
Gamma ITU709
Color Mode ITU709
Level 4

This gives a nice color with less washed out blacks and less grading. But then again I do like to crush my blacks in post a little more - just my preference.