Well honestly I couldn't figure out how to make that topic any shorter..

So before I start shooting a DV Feature, which we will eventually get transferred to 35mm, what are some things I should think about?

I realize the cost of transfer to film is approx. $500 a minute of footage some I'm looking at somewhere in the 50k+ range for a full length film, but I was wondering as far as shooting wise, is there anything I should consider regarding what we should or shouldn't do since we are shooting on DV.

If we shoot in 4:3 as opposed to 16:9 can we convert this after filming is done?

Or are we better off shooting in 16:9 and then converting it to 4:3 if need be?

This film will eventually be shown in theaters so I'm thinking 16:9 might be better?

Are there any downsides to shooting on DV and then transferring to Film as far as loss of quality?

Is there something we should keep in mind specific to each film transfer house that we need to know before we start shooting on DV?

Is there one DV Camera better for this type of project than another?

Currently we are using a Sony 2100 and a Sony 950, but we are currently only using these for taping auditions, interviews with the cast and the rehearsals for review between each rehearsal session.


We are planning on acquiring either a Canon XLS 1(Used from BH), Canon XLS 2, Sony PD-170 or a Panasonic AG-DVX100A as the main camera and using the 2100 as a secondary. One will be stationary and one will be mobile.

Pardon the the lack of education behind some of the questions, but I'm still learning the video side of it. Luckily I'm not doing the shooting of it.(Thanks Howie and Bob)

Thanks for any suggestions or advice that anyone gives.

I haven't done anything like that myself but it is always a good idea to contact the film transfer house beforehand. They usually tell you what to do and what not to do.

Swiss Effects for example even recommends specific settings for a number of different DV cams. You might want to check their website

http://www.swisseffects.ch


Hope that helps a bit.

Also check out this review: http://www.dvinfo.net/articles/filmlook/mcknight1.php

Of the cameras you listed, get either the DVX100a or the XL2. Both will transfer smoothly to film, because they can shoot footage at 24p.

One great site with lots of info is www.dvfilm.com
They do DV to film transfers, and offer very competitive rates.

Are there any downsides to shooting on DV and then transferring to Film as far as loss of quality?

If you are transferring it to film to have it projected onto a 35' screen there will be - DV doesn't have the resolution or color space of film and those problems, while not readily apparent on you're TV, will show up big time on the big screen - aftifacts, jaggies, the works.

Even if you shoot with film style lenses at 24p and get a good colorist to go over it before hand and get a film print, if you originate on DV, your movie will not look like film.