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How do I check exposure properly using the waveform monitor?

Asked on Nov 11, 2025

Answer

Using a waveform monitor is essential for accurately checking exposure in video editing, as it visually represents the brightness levels across your footage. This tool is available in most professional editing software like DaVinci Resolve, Premiere Pro, and Final Cut Pro.

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    1. Open the waveform monitor in your editing software.
    2. Adjust your footage to ensure important details fall within safe exposure ranges:Shadows should generally be above 0 IRE.
Midtones typically range between 40-60 IRE.
Highlights should not exceed 100 IRE to avoid clipping.    3. Use the waveform to balance exposure across clips for consistency.
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Additional Comment:

Waveform monitors display luminance information, helping you adjust exposure without relying solely on your screen's brightness.
Ensure your monitor is calibrated for accurate color and brightness representation.
Use the waveform in conjunction with other scopes like the vectorscope for comprehensive color correction.

✅ Answered with Video Editing best practices.

Didn’t find the answer you were looking for?

How do I check exposure properly using the waveform monitor?

Asked on Nov 11, 2025

Answer

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