HD F.A.Q

         The HD Image




         HD Frame Rates




         HD Formats




         HD Techniques




         HD Hardware

HD Frame Rates

Which frame rate should I use?

If you’re shooting HD for the UK television market and you don’t want the film look, you should shoot 50i. If you do want the film look shoot 25p.

If you’re shooting HD for the USA and Japanese television market and you don’t want the film look, you should shoot 60i. If you do want the film look shoot 30p (or 29.97p).

If you’re shooting to transfer to film shoot 24p or 25p.

I've been asked to shoot 29.97 frames per second (or 29.97p). What is this?

This is a drop-frame version of 30p, used where the final transmission may be NTSC.

What’s the difference between 1080i and 720p?

1080i is an interlaced format consisting of 1080 active lines. 720p is a progressive format consisting of 720 active lines.

Can I shoot 25p and then convert to 50i?

Yes, but the process is expensive and complicated. You need to decide before shooting whether interlaced or progressive is appropriate.

Can I shoot 25p and then convert to 24p?

Yes, with no loss of picture quality.