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Articles on filmmaking technique, production planning, and industry knowledge.
Showing 12 of 32 posts (Page 2 of 3)
What Circle of Confusion Value Should You Actually Use? A Sensor-by-Sensor Guide
Most DoF calculators pick a default circle of confusion value and never show it to you. Some default to 0.029mm for every camera regardless of sensor size. Others use 0.025mm for 'cinema' modes that span three different sensor formats. Here is how to find out what your app is actually using and whether it is correct.
Why Your Lens Markings and Your DoF Calculator Still Disagree (Breathing, T-Stops, and Diffraction)
Even with the correct circle of confusion set, a DoF calculator will give you a number your lens cannot quite deliver. Lens breathing changes the effective focal length as you focus closer. T-stops differ from f-numbers. And diffraction shrinks your sharp zone past f/8 on modern sensors. Here is what each factor contributes.
ProRes vs. BRAW vs. ARRIRAW: Which Acquisition Format Is Right for Your Production?
A technical and practical comparison of ProRes, Blackmagic RAW, and ARRIRAW acquisition formats covering data rates, storage requirements, color grading latitude, NLE compatibility, and the real workflow implications for different production scales.
Film vs. Digital in 2026: A Side-by-Side Cost Breakdown for a 12-Day Shoot
A full line-item cost comparison for a 12-day indie narrative feature shoot on 35mm film versus digital acquisition on an ARRI ALEXA 35, covering stock, processing, scanning, crew differentials, equipment, and delivery costs at 2026 pricing.
ARRI vs. RED vs. Sony: What the Spec Sheets Don't Tell You
A practical comparison of the ARRI ALEXA 35, RED V-RAPTOR, and Sony VENICE 2 that goes beyond resolution and dynamic range to cover color science, codec pipeline compatibility, rental economics, and real post-production cost implications.
How to Use Hyperfocal Distance in the Real World (Not Just in Theory)
Hyperfocal distance is taught as a formula but used on set as a technique. This post covers the calculation, the practical focus distances for common lens and sensor combinations, and exactly when pulling to hyperfocal is the right call versus when it is a shortcut that costs you sharpness.
Shutter Angle vs. Shutter Speed: Which Should You Set on Your Camera?
Shutter angle and shutter speed describe the same physical setting using two different units. Understanding which to use and why matters most when you change frame rates mid-production -- because one unit automatically preserves motion blur character while the other does not.
What Circle of Confusion Should You Use for Your Camera?
The circle of confusion value in your DoF calculator is sensor-format specific. Using the wrong CoC produces inaccurate depth of field predictions on set. Here is exactly which value to enter for every common cinema and mirrorless camera.
DoF Calculator vs. Lens Markings: Which to Trust on Set?
Lens barrel DoF markings were engraved for 35mm film standards that predate digital sensors. On most modern cinema and mirrorless cameras, those markings are optimistic by 30 to 50 percent. Here is how to know when to trust the glass and when to trust the calculator.
Lens Spherical vs. Anamorphic vs. Vintage: How to Choose a Glass Signature for Your Film
Compares modern spherical, vintage adapted glass, and anamorphic optics across look, practical considerations, flares, focus breathing, chromatic aberration, availability, and cost per day.
Aspect Ratios in Film: A Complete History and Practical Shooting Guide
Covers 1.33:1 through 2.76:1 with historical context, which films used each ratio and why, and practical advice on choosing your ratio based on story, delivery platform, and post workflow.
Frame Rates in Filmmaking: 24fps, 25fps, 48fps and the Science of the Cinematic Look
Explains persistence of vision, the 24fps aesthetic, why HFR failed as a theatrical format, and how to choose frame rate based on delivery platform and genre. Includes a full shutter angle conversion table.