Compression question

[Philip Aromando]

Is there a standard compression ratio that's preferred for feature length films? I'm about to embark on a documentary feature film that will be generating A LOT of data. There's also a slim chance it will have a theatrical release.

I know 5:1 compression is what's traditionally used on commercials. Are features shot 5:1? Or is 8:1 or 10:1 an acceptable compression ratio for a theatrical release?

New to Red,
Phil

 

[Julio Quintana]

For reference, 7:1 is roughly equivalent to the Red One MX compression used on The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. The new Spiderman was shot at 5:1. If I were shooting a documentary with a slim chance of theatrical release, I would shoot 12:1 at best. Keep in mind that even at 18:1, Epic is WAY higher quality than the typical prosumer camera (EX1, HVX200, etc.), which is what 90% of documentaries are shot on.

 

[Philip Aromando]

Thank you, Julio.

 

[Gunleik Groven]

Actually I'd say it's a bit scene dependant (and thus dependant on what you're documenting...)

For most shots 12:1 will be more than great. Outstanding, actually...

BUT if you're shooting a scene with tons of detail, deep focus and high contrast, like typically in a forest when you shoot through the branches and towards the sky, I'd have done 3:1, even for a docu...