Archiving Log Video Files: Storage and Backup Best Practices

Quick answer	Archive Log projects with the camera originals, the color pipeline, and the final exports. A folder of video files is not enough if no one knows which profile, LUT, or transform was used.
Archive originals	Never rely only on exports.
Save LUTs	A missing LUT can change the whole grade.
Verify copies	Use checks or test restores for important work.

Use a Predictable Folder Structure

Keep folders for camera originals, audio, project files, proxies, graphics, LUTs, exports, and documentation. Consistent names matter more than clever names.

Document Camera Profile and Color Decisions

Save notes for camera profile, white balance, frame rate, codec, LUTs, color management settings, and delivery color space. These details make a future conform or regrade possible.

Use the 3-2-1 Backup Rule

Keep at least three copies, on two types of storage, with one copy offsite or in the cloud. For important client work, verify copies instead of assuming drag-and-drop completed correctly.

Proxies

Asset	Keep?	Reason
Camera originals	Always	They are the source of truth.
Proxies	Optional	Useful, but rebuildable.
LUTs and transforms	Always	They define how Log footage was interpreted.
Final exports	Always	They document what was delivered.

Treat Proxies as Rebuildable

Proxies are useful, but they are not the master archive. Keep the originals and preserve the path or naming logic needed to reconnect them.

Test Retrieval Before You Need It

Open an archived project occasionally and confirm that media, LUTs, fonts, plugins, and exports are still accessible. A backup that cannot be restored is only a hope.

FAQ

Should I archive proxies?

Archive proxies only if storage allows or rebuild time matters. Originals are more important.

Do I need to save LUTs?

Yes. Save every LUT or transform used in the project.

What is the safest archive structure?

Use consistent folders for originals, project files, LUTs, exports, audio, graphics, and notes.

How often should I test archives?

Test important archives periodically and before deleting any working-drive copy.

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Joseph Nilo, video producer and creator workflow writer

About the Author

Joseph Nilo has been working professionally in all aspects of audio and video production for over twenty years. His day-to-day work finds him working as a video editor, 2D and 3D motion graphics designer, voiceover artist and audio engineer, and colorist for corporate projects and feature films.

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Parent Article:
Log Video Formats Reference Guide

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