Uploaded June 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
🎥 Exposure Index vs ISO: Why EI Is Changing How I Shoot Log Footage
A while back, I made a video on ISO and Exposure Index (EI), and it sparked a lot of discussion—and confusion. Especially around the idea that EI is becoming the new ISO.
Watch the video on Dynamic Range and Negative ISO: youtu.be/FFm679AgUTw
In this video, I break down exactly what Exposure Index is, how it differs from ISO, and why it’s such a powerful tool for modern cinematography.
I’ll show you how EI affects exposure, dynamic range, and signal quality, especially when shooting in S-Log3 on Sony cameras like the FX6 and FX3. We’ll also look at how DaVinci Resolve now treats EI as the default exposure setting—even if you’re not shooting in RAW.
👉 Topics I cover:
• Exposure Index vs ISO explained
• How EI affects dynamic range and image quality
• Real-world waveform and middle gray tests
• Why DaVinci Resolve uses EI metadata
• How I use EI to control exposure in post-production
If you’re a filmmaker or cinematographer shooting in log, understanding how to use Exposure Index will give you more flexibility and better results—especially in low-light situations.
For me, EI has completely changed the way I expose and grade my footage. And if you’re using DaVinci Resolve, you’re probably already relying on EI—whether you realize it or not.
💬 Drop your questions in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re using EI in your own workflow.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more filmmaking tips and breakdowns.
🟢 Download my free Camera Settings Cheat Sheet: cnomadic.com/cheat-sheet
🟢 Master the camera settings behind cinematic images: cnomadic.com/essential
🟢 Gear I Use On My Shoots: https://a.co/d/0dzJurXX
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
🎥 Exposure Index vs ISO: Why EI Is Changing How I Shoot Log Footage
A while back, I made a video on ISO and Exposure Index (EI), and it sparked a lot of discussion—and confusion. Especially around the idea that EI is becoming the new ISO.
Watch the video on Dynamic Range and Negative ISO: youtu.be/FFm679AgUTw
In this video, I break down exactly what Exposure Index is, how it differs from ISO, and why it’s such a powerful tool for modern cinematography.
I’ll show you how EI affects exposure, dynamic range, and signal quality, especially when shooting in S-Log3 on Sony cameras like the FX6 and FX3. We’ll also look at how DaVinci Resolve now treats EI as the default exposure setting—even if you’re not shooting in RAW.
👉 Topics I cover:
• Exposure Index vs ISO explained
• How EI affects dynamic range and image quality
• Real-world waveform and middle gray tests
• Why DaVinci Resolve uses EI metadata
• How I use EI to control exposure in post-production
If you’re a filmmaker or cinematographer shooting in log, understanding how to use Exposure Index will give you more flexibility and better results—especially in low-light situations.
For me, EI has completely changed the way I expose and grade my footage. And if you’re using DaVinci Resolve, you’re probably already relying on EI—whether you realize it or not.
💬 Drop your questions in the comments—I’d love to hear how you’re using EI in your own workflow.
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more filmmaking tips and breakdowns.
🟢 Download my free Camera Settings Cheat Sheet: cnomadic.com/cheat-sheet
🟢 Master the camera settings behind cinematic images: cnomadic.com/essential
🟢 Gear I Use On My Shoots: https://a.co/d/0dzJurXX
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
