Question - how to read waveform, histograms, and vectorscopes

Kevin McElroy

Kevin McElroy

Active member
I've really been trying to learn proper lighting and exposure for when I'm on the set, but I am having some trouble finding some answers or resources that I can learn from. My biggest problem has been with me relying on what I saw on my HD monitor (big mistake), and because of that my footage always looks very underexposed and oversaturated when I bring it into an editing suite. Anyways, I will be hooking up my HVX200a to my Mac and using Adobe OnLocation CS4. Here are a few questions I had, and please fill me in if I am mising anything, any kind of info will be very much appreciated. Thanks

1. How do I properly read waveform, histograms, and vectorscopes?
2. Is a light meter recommended in "digital" filmmaking?
 
Last edited:
It complicated to explain how to use waveform, vectorscope, ect. but I learned from this site:

http://www.lynda.com/home/DisplayCourse.aspx?lpk2=516

It cost $25 but you get full access to all the videos for one month. If you have the time you can watch them all in one month.

http://www.lynda.com/home/DisplayCourse.aspx?lpk2=428

A light meter helps if you don't have access to a waveform monitor or zebras. Waveform monitor is the best but I use a light meter for location scouting so I know how much light I have to bring.
 
Thanks for the reply Jimmy, I appreciate it. I actually just reactivated my account last night at lynda.com, so after work I'll check out those links you posted. Thanks again.
 
Thanks for the other link Jimmy! I think I now have a basic idea on how to read scopes, enough to get me by for now anyways. I wish that there was more detailed info out there so someone can learn how to properly read scopes. Maybe there is, but for some reason I just can't find it though. Anyways thanks for your help Jimmy, I really appreciate it. :beer:
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top