Samsung has introduced log video recording on the Galaxy S25 series, allowing users to shoot 10-bit 4K and 8K videos. This feature enables greater control over color grading, giving videos a cinematic or stylized look. In this guide, we’ll explore how to shoot log video on the Galaxy S25 Ultra and color grade it both on the phone and using DaVinci Resolve.
How to Enable Log Video on the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
To start shooting in log, open the camera app, swipe to “More,” and select “Pro Video.” In the top-right corner, you’ll see a toggle for log mode. Enabling this will make the image look washed out, which is expected, as color grading will restore the vibrancy later.
If you prefer not to use Pro Video mode but still want log recording, go to settings, navigate to “Advanced Video Options,” tap on “Log,” and enable it for both “Video” and “Pro Video” modes. This will allow you to shoot log video in regular video mode as well.
Basic Color Grading on the Phone
If you want a quick and simple way to color grade your log footage directly on your phone without using third-party apps, follow these steps:
- Open the video in the gallery.
- Swipe up and select “Color Correct.”
- Tap the option, and it will instantly color correct your log footage.
This method improves dynamic range, retaining more details in highlights and shadows, but it doesn’t allow for full creative control. For a professional-grade result, a more advanced color grading method is needed.
Advanced Color Grading with DaVinci Resolve
For filmmakers who want complete control over their footage, color grading in DaVinci Resolve is the best option. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Step 1: Import and Analyze Footage
Import your log video clips into DaVinci Resolve and open the color panel. Check the “Info” section to confirm that the footage was recorded in 10-bit.
Step 2: Using Samsung’s LUTs
Samsung provides two LUTs (Look-Up Tables) for color grading: a 1D LUT and a 3D LUT. Both can be downloaded from Samsung’s official website. Apply them as follows:
- 1D LUT: Drag and drop it onto the footage. This transforms the log footage into Rec.709, but the results are harsh and overly contrasted.
- 3D LUT: This provides slightly better exposure balance but alters color hues, introducing a magenta tint.
Neither LUT delivers optimal results, so a custom grading process is recommended.
Step 3: Custom Color Grading Workflow
For the best results, follow these steps:
- Create three nodes in DaVinci Resolve: a base node, a Color Space Transform (CST) node, and a final grading node.
- Apply “Color Space Transform” in the CST node.
- Set the input color space to P3 D65 and input gamma to ARRI LogC3 (based on Samsung’s documentation).
- This conversion naturally adjusts log footage to Rec.709 while preserving original colors and tones.
- Further tweak exposure, contrast, shadows, and highlights to refine the look.
- For a stylized effect, apply a favorite LUT with reduced opacity (35-40%) for a cinematic feel.
Step 4: Enhancing the Cinematic Look
To take grading to the next level, apply a “Film Look Creator” effect as used in professional workflows. This adds subtle grain and a softer tone, making footage appear more like cinema rather than digital phone video.
Final Thoughts on Log Video on the S25 Ultra
The introduction of log video on the Galaxy S25 Ultra is a great step forward, offering professional control for mobile filmmakers. While Samsung’s LUTs provide a quick fix, custom color grading yields the best results. The S25 Ultra’s log quality is impressive but still has room for improvement compared to competitors like the Vivo X200 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max.
For those seeking an easy workflow, downloadable color grading packs can streamline the process. Stay tuned for a comparison video, and be sure to subscribe for more in-depth guides on mobile filmmaking.
