Avid's gain (in post) vs. Camera's gain (in camera)

[sean90291]

Gain is bad. At least it's bad when it's added in camera. So does the same apply when gain is added while doing color correction in Avid Media Composer? Because often I need to brighten the image (shot in HDV) to make it look right. Am I getting a "less destructive" effect when adding gain in post this way than if the gain were added in camera? Or am I still doing something naughty by adding gain this way. I certainly don't notice any noise with Avid's gain added. At least not with HDV footage.

 

[MichaelP]

Video itself will have a limit to the amount of gain you apply - whether in post or in camera. Nothing beats correct lighting to start with. That being said - if you need to brighten up an image and it looks fine in post - then you are good.

Michael