Exposure Scope

circle-info

This scope requires a Pro license.

The Exposure Scope provides a visual analysis of exposure levels across your image, helping identify areas that may be under or overexposed.

Overview

The Exposure Scope analyzes the luminance distribution of your image and highlights areas based on their exposure level. This helps you:

  • Quickly identify clipped highlights

  • Find crushed shadows

  • Evaluate overall exposure balance

  • Make informed exposure adjustments

Interface

The scope displays your image with color-coded overlays indicating exposure zones:

  • Blue/Cyan: Underexposed areas (shadows approaching black)

  • Red/Magenta: Overexposed areas (highlights approaching white)

  • Normal: Properly exposed regions (shown without overlay)

Settings

Access scope settings via the hamburger menu (☰) or right-click on the scope.

Setting
Description
Default

Shadow Threshold

Level below which shadows are flagged

5%

Highlight Threshold

Level above which highlights are flagged

95%

Overlay Opacity

Transparency of the exposure indicators

50%

Show Zones

Display zone system overlay

Off

Threshold Adjustment

Adjust the thresholds based on your delivery requirements:

  • Broadcast: Tighter thresholds (7-93%) to ensure legal levels

  • Cinema: Wider thresholds to preserve creative latitude

  • Web: Moderate thresholds for typical display characteristics

Use Cases

Checking for Clipping

Before final delivery, use the Exposure Scope to verify no unintended clipping:

  1. Set thresholds to your delivery spec limits

  2. Scan through your content

  3. Address any flagged areas

Balancing Exposure

When color correcting, the scope helps maintain consistent exposure:

  • Watch for expanding red/blue zones as you adjust

  • Aim for minimal flagged areas unless intentional

HDR Content

For HDR workflows, adjust thresholds appropriately:

  • Highlights may intentionally exceed SDR limits

  • Use PQ or HLG reference levels as guides

Tips

  • Combine with the Waveform for numerical confirmation

  • Use alongside False Color for more detailed zone analysis

  • The scope updates in real-time as you make adjustments

Last updated