Scanning Primer

In terms of scanning 35mm, the typical frame sizes are 2K or 4k. In terms of the larger 65mm frame sizes you can get up to 8K or even 12K resolutions. After being scanned, each frame is saved out in a certain file format which can be read by the conforming edit system, in our case it was a Quantel IQ with a Pablo card. The Pablo card enables it to work in a 4K resolution. Here are some descriptions of the file formats.

2K: Describes a horizontal resolution of 2048 pixels. Scanning full-frame 35mm film produces an image size of 2048x1556. 2K is today the most common DI scanning resolution, as well as post production workflow, incorporating 2K projectors, 2K capable color correction suites and effects workflows.

4K: Describes a horizontal resolution of 4096 pixels. Scanning full-frame 35mm film produces an image size of 4096x3112 (or 4096x3072). 4K, although 4 times the area of 2K, is not yet as widely used throughout the entire post production pipeline

Cineon: Developed by Kodak. The Cineon file format was designed for scanning film for digital film work like effects, digital color timing and the creation of digital intermediates. It is an RGB bitmap10-bit log file that corresponds to the density of the film negative, preserving the original gamma. It can hold an exposure range of approximately 11 stops. Support for up to 16-bit depth per channel.

DPX: (Digital Picture Exchange). File format used in high end applications like film scanning for use in digital film work, like effects, digital color timing and creation of digital intermediates. 10-bit log file preserves image densities similar to Cineon format. Standardized by ANSI/SMPTE 268M-2003. Similar to the Cineon file format except that DPX can store more header information and image data information. This format has become quite popular lately for this type of high-end digital film work