High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology has brought new life to the world of video editing, offering a wide color gamut and exceptional brightness and contrast. Hybrid Log-Gamma (HLG) is a popular HDR format that has been embraced by many content creators. However, exporting HLG footage from Adobe Premiere can be a daunting task. In this article, we will guide you through the process of exporting HLG footage in Adobe Premiere, step-by-step.

Step 1: Set up your project

Before you begin exporting, make sure that your project settings match the footage you are working with. Set the color space to Rec. 2020 and the color bit depth to 10-bit. If your footage is shot in HLG, make sure to set the color space to HLG (BT2100).

Step 2: Choose the right export settings

To export in HLG, select the “HEVC(H.265)” format from the “Format” dropdown list in the export settings. This format is necessary because it supports the HLG color space. Also, select “Match Source – High Bitrate” under the “Preset” dropdown list. This ensures that the bitrate matches the source footage, maintaining the highest possible quality.

Step 3: Adjust the video settings

Under the “Video” tab, select “Maximum Render Quality” to ensure that the export is of the highest possible quality. Set the frame rate to match the source footage, and choose the “Use Maximum Render Quality” option to maintain the best image quality.

Step 4: Configure the color settings

Under the “Basic Video Settings” tab, make sure that the “Color Space” is set to HLG. Also, set the “Bit Depth” to 10-bit, ensuring the highest possible color accuracy.

Step 5: Finalize your export

Once all of the settings are configured, click “Export” and wait for the process to finish. Once the export is complete, make sure to view the exported file on an HLG-compatible display to ensure that the color space and brightness are correct.

Exporting HLG footage in Adobe Premiere requires careful attention to detail, but it can be accomplished with the right settings. By following these steps, you can ensure that your final output is of the highest possible quality, maintaining the integrity of your HDR content.

However, it is important to note that not all playback devices support HLG. Before exporting, consider where your video will be viewed and make sure the playback device is HLG compatible. This will ensure that the HLG content is displayed correctly and not distorted.

In addition, it is important to monitor your HLG footage throughout the editing process. Adobe Premiere has a built-in feature to display HLG content accurately on an HDR monitor. To enable this feature, go to the “Lumetri Scopes” panel and select “HDR” from the dropdown menu. This will display the footage accurately on an HDR monitor.

Exporting HLG footage in Adobe Premiere can be a challenging process, but by following the above steps, you can ensure that your final output is of the highest possible quality. Remember to choose the right export settings, configure your color settings, and monitor your footage throughout the editing process. By doing so, you can create stunning HDR content that will be enjoyed by your audience.