Aspect Ratios
| Ratio | Common use |
|---|---|
| 1.33:1 (4:3) | Early cinema and older television |
| 1.78:1 (16:9) | Television, online video |
| 1.85:1 | Flat theatrical widescreen |
| 2.39:1 | Scope widescreen |
| 9:16 | Vertical mobile video |
Frame Rates
24 frames per second is the cinema standard. 25 and 30 fps are common for broadcast and online, and higher frame rates are used for slow motion. Frame rate shapes motion feel.
Resolution and Colour
- Resolution: HD (1920×1080), 4K UHD (3840×2160), and DCI cinema 2K/4K.
- Bit depth: 8-bit vs 10-bit or more for grading.
- Colour space: Rec.709 for SDR video, wider spaces for HDR and cinema.
- Codecs: how video is compressed, from H.264 to ProRes and RAW.
Sound Formats
Stereo
Two channels; common online.
5.1 surround
Common for cinema and home theatre.
7.1 surround
More side and rear channels.
Object-based
Formats such as Dolby Atmos place sounds in 3D space.
Delivery Formats
- DCP for cinema projection
- ProRes masters for archives
- H.264 or H.265 for online
- Blu-ray for physical release
- Subtitles as separate files
- Loudness to platform specs
Blu-ray details are in our BD video explainer. Image data options are covered in RAW video meaning.
Technical Expertise in Production
A technically rigorous film studio in India plans specs before the shoot. A delivery-focused post agency in India meets each platform's requirements. A technical post team handles QC and conversions. In Bengaluru, a Bangalore QC and delivery crew can help, and theatrical releases may require one of the most experienced cinema post houses in India.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the technical aspects of film?
Aspect ratio, frame rate, resolution, colour, codecs, sound formats, and delivery formats.
What is the standard frame rate for film?
24 frames per second.
What is a DCP?
A Digital Cinema Package, the standard format for cinema projection.
What does 2.39:1 mean?
A widescreen aspect ratio often called scope.
Know the Specs, Serve the Story
The technical aspects of film shape how audiences experience a story. Plan specs early and deliver correctly. For technically demanding projects, consult our technical team.
Ready to plan your next video?
Tell us about your project, timeline, and goals, and the Editatease team will suggest the right approach.
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