FS7: Question about EI mode

[scorsesefan]

Coming from the FS5 I have a few questions about the FS7's EI mode. My understanding of EI mode is that the FS7 always shoots at 2000ISO in EI mode (the sensor's native ISO) and that changing the EI only affects the LUT image on the monitor, not what the sensor records. By setting the EI to, say, 1000 in SLOG 3, you would open up 1 stop and you're effectively ETTR and therefore lifting your shadows and the result is less noise. Is this correct?

But what about bright scenes? Should you be using a higher EI than 2000 to protect your highlights? All of the above is with a rec709 lut.

Thanks

 

[Tom Roper]

Yip, that’s how it works. 

 

[scorsesefan]

Yip, that’s how it works. 

Thanks. So where should your zebras be (skin and whites)?

 

[Tom Roper]

Using the 709 viewing lut, for light skin you could set zebras to 65-70% and for white clipping 93-95% should be in the ballpark.

 

[scorsesefan]

Thanks, Tom.

 

[Doug Jensen]

If you dont want to use a MLUT (I prefer not to) then set Zebra2 for 75 and allow just a little zebra to show on whites. Exposing for skin? Not a good idea unless you think everyone has the same shade of skin. Use white, it is easier and more consistent.

 

[LennyLevy]

You're correct but in general its not recommended to go above 2000 to protect highlights. You could but at the expense of noise. Generally most people don't expose at 2000 ever. I've gone to 1200 & 1600 for highlights though. Some peope say 2000 is OK for bright daylight. test test test.