Photo: Christo Montes

We have all heard about gamma curves, but why do we need them? What is wrong with linear encoding?

In our recent Sony FX series workshop, Christo Montes took things back to basics with an in depth breakdown of image processing fundamentals.

He illustrated how in a linear 16bit data stream coming out of a theoretical 16 stop dynamic range sensor, 98% of the image information would be reserved for the highlights above mid grey, and only 2% for the shadows & mid tones, explaining this is the reason gamma curves are used. He showed that gamma curves transform that information from how a sensor records light to how humans perceive light. And that gamma curves can process the image with immediate viewing in mind (various Rec709 gamma curves), or with maximum information retention in mind (log curves).

Christo also talked about the difference between dynamic range in Cine EI vs S-Cinetone and when you should use each of them, MLUTS, Codecs, Chroma Subsampling, All-I vs Long GOP - all fascinating techy stuff.

Sony kindly funded this knowledge sharing workshop, which was held in a studio courtesy of Photo Gear.

Around 22 people attended, with a great mix of students and experienced camera users. Everyone left with a deeper understanding of their cameras and some of the science behind what we do and why.

Thanks go to Donny Duncan NZCS in his Professional Development role for organising the session, and to Christo for investing so much time in researching and presenting the material to share with the community.

~ Murray Milne NZCS