How to use D-Log color mode

What is 𝐃-𝐋𝐨𝐠 and why is it so preferred?

If you've ever wondered why professional videographers choose to shoot in 𝐃-𝐋𝐨𝐠 – a mode in which footage appears almost colorless – this short guide will show you how this "gray" profile actually works and what its advantages are.

What is D-Log?

Main idea

D-Log is DJI's logarithmic color mode that uses a special log curve to maximize dynamic range and preserve detail in the bright and dark parts of the image.

Why does it matter?

D-Log records a very low contrast image, often described as „grey/dull”, effectively setting the image’s colours to zero. This prevents blown-out highlights, preserves detail in shadows and retains more colour and brightness information to provide greater flexibility in colour styling of footage, ideal for professional and cinema video productions.

What is D-Log M 10-bit?

If your device shows D-Log M 10-bit, this means two main things:

D-Log M

D-Log M is a simplified version of D-Log, offering slightly more limited dynamic range and simpler post-processing. It is ideal for shooting videos that do not require complex color styling.

10-bit

10-bit refers to the range of colors. A 10-bit image displays about 1.07 billion colors, compared to 8-bit, which displays 16.7 million. This means a richer color palette and smoother gradations. D-Log M footage is usually recorded in 10-bit, which is why some devices display this designation in the settings.

Why does the image look gray in D-Log M?

This is normal. D-Log M records desaturated, low-contrast „gray” footage to preserve more light and color information, leaving maximum room for styling in post-production. Simply restore and
adjust colors in the editing software. Some products (such as Osmo Action 6) also offer a D-Log color preview during shooting.

How do I activate D-Log M?

With drones

We're using the DJI Air 3S as an example. Tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner of the camera view to access the camera settings and change the color profile to D-Log M. You can also enable it via the PRO mode in the bottom right corner of the camera view.

Handheld devices

Using the Osmo Action 6 as an example, tap the settings icon on the right side of the screen to access the picture and sound settings. Enable PRO mode, then select D-Log M from the color mode options.

Tip:

Most DJI drones and handhelds support D-Log M and have a similar setup method. If the option is not visible, make sure you are in PRO mode.

How are the shots stylized?

Before styling in the processing software, download the official DJI LUT for your device from the DJI website. DJI and import it into your editing program.

DJI Website -> Support -> Download Center -> Software -> Transcoders

In Adobe Premiere Pro 2020

1. Right-click on Adobe Premiere Pro 2020 and select Open file location. Go to: C:Program FilesAdobeAdobe Premiere Pro 2020LumetriLUTsTechnical and copy the downloaded .cube file in this folder.
2. Open Premiere Pro 2020. The LUT file will appear in the Lumetri Color panel and can be used to restore colors.

What is LUT?

A LUT (Lookup Table) is a preset profile that converts input color values into output values in order to adjust the tone, contrast, and saturation of an image. These profiles are saved as .LUT files. .cube and are widely supported by professional software such as DaVinci Resolve и Adobe Premiere Pro.

Using a DJI action camera? We recommend using DJI Mimo for processing. Official LUTs are built into the app and automatically sync to your device.

How does it work?

1. Connect the camera to the phone via DJI Outside.
2. Select a clip and click LOG Color Recovery, to apply the official LUT.
3. Export immediately or further edit colors with Filter and Color Tuning. You can also insert manually created LUTs for more creative color styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't my device support D-Log M?

Although most DJI devices support D-Log M, a small number of models do not. D-Log M is not available for the following models: DJI Neo 2, DJI Neo, DJI Mini 3, DJI Mini 2, DJI Mini 2 SE, DJI Mini 4K, Mavic Mini, Spark and some Phantom 3 models.

Why is my device showing D-Cinelike?

D-Cinelike adds a film-like look to D-Log, making it easier to watch without stylization. It appears as an alternative color mode on some DJI drones.

Why can't D-Log M images be processed in post production?

In most cases, D-Log M is intended for video recording only. Only a few models support D-Log stills, and these stills must be converted to sRGB before being processed in software.

Why do my shots look worse than normal mode, even after I restore the colors?

D-Log M records more detail for later processing, which means your footage needs the right settings when you shoot. Use manual exposure, carefully adjust white balance, avoid overexposed highlights, and shoot in nice, balanced light for best results.