The “Cinema Toolbox” for Digital Filmmakers

Although there is no complete consensus, a number of characteristics have been singled-out as being crucial in giving digital formats such as HD and Mini-DV the “look” of film. These characteristics – described in more detail below – essentially boil down to the following:

• 24p
• cinema gamma
• 16:9 format
• High definition (HD) video
• Post-production tools
• Film-style cinematography (using the Micro35)

 24P (or twenty-four frames per second, progressive)

The most important to emerge of late has been “24p,” or 24-progressive, an algorithm that allows for the interlaced video signal to emulate the cadence of normal-speed motion picture film. Cameras and software solutions alike now offer “24p” modes in a direct appeal to the independent producer weighing the pros and cons of going Mini-DV. 24p caused a revolution among Mini-DV indie filmmakers, particularly with the introduction of Panasonic’s AG-DVX100 and HVX200 camcorders. Mini-DV was starting to get its due.

(note: Sony has an article that goes into more detail on 24p here: http://mediasoftware.sonypictures.com/download/step2.asp?DID=511)