Video logging

Video logging is a process in which video footage is watched and labeled according to its content.

Logging in post-production

If a video has a high shooting ratio, it can be impractical to remember exactly where each shot is on each source tape or source file. Finding a particular source shot by searching through hours of video during editing can be time consuming, as well as tie up expensive editing equipment and editors' time.

A solution widely employed in the professional industry is to log the content prior to editing. Loggers go through the source video material, labeling it according to its contents with metadata. This data is then available during editing, making the editing more efficient.

Software based logging systems allow clip lists to be imported directly into computer based editing systems.

Broadcast and compliance logging

Free-to-Air and Subscription broadcasters often have a statutory requirement to keep a record of all programs that are emitted. This may be for legal or other compliance purposes—or simply good commercial sense to 'have proof' of events in event of a contrary claim.