4K resolution, also known simply as 4K video, refers to a horizontal screen display resolution in the range of around 4,000 pixels. To put it into perspective, High Definition video, or HD, is 1920 pixels wide. Standard definition video, or SD, is 720 pixels wide.
So 4K resolution is pretty big by comparison! So whilst most videos are viewed in high definition, what’s the benefit of shooting a small or large scale video production in the larger 4K format?
4K makes it easier to edit interviews and talking heads
In the old days, we would use two cameras when filming interviews – both cameras would be focused on the subject, but one would be zoomed in to a close-up. This allowed us to cut between different angles to hide any edits and avoid jump cuts if we needed to edit anything out.
Filming in 4K makes this possible with just one camera, which makes it more cost-effective and quicker on set.
The extra resolution 4K gives you means we can capture up to 3 different camera angles from one shot!
We can get a wide shot, a medium shot and a close-up without moving the camera. And there’s no reduction in picture quality either!
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4K means you can easily crop and adjust shots afterwards
Photos from a high megapixel DSLR camera allow photographers to crop further into their image without losing quality. 4K video gives the same luxury to video production.
By capturing shots in a higher resolution, we have so many more options in the edit to crop or adjust shots as needed. Whereas if shooting in HD, the footage would look nasty and pixellated.
For example, capturing moving objects can be tricky at the best of times. However, if we film them in 4K, we can then track the object in post-production. Then, crop into the frame to create a smoother shot. All without losing picture quality.
4k allows you to add smooth moves in the edit
Creating a gentle pan, tilt or zoom move-in camera is far from impossible. But filming in 4K makes it super easy.
All you need to do is to capture a wide shot that takes in the full range of the scene. Then, fake the camera move in post-production! This way, zooms can be much slower and smoother. Also, it’s possible to time pan or tilt shots to perfection to match the action in the scene.
You get the freedom to adjust the shots in post-production by filming in higher resolutions. We use the Sony FS5 and it makes filming more efficient and stress-free. We’re constantly upgrading our edit suites to handle more demanding productions. So the additional storage and processing power that working with 4K footage requires is never an issue for us!
