Red 4K 2:1 imported into Avid 1080p

[Sean]

Since Media Composer (software version) currently only goes up to 1080p, I choose to use DNxHD exported from RedCine and import that into Avid.

But with Red footage shot at 4K 2:1 this results in a 1080p quicktime file with 16x9 aspect. That means there is some black letterboxing in order to "pad" the 2:1 footage.

Now, the thing I've just fully realized is this letterboxing is PART of the DNxHD image now. So if I colour correct in Avid, it also adjusts the black bars of the letterbox as though it were a black part of the image itself.

I can't change the aspect ratio in Avid. So how would you deal with 2:1 footage with black bars within Avid so that the black bars are actually treated as letterbox and not the image itself. Do you leave this issue until export? Is there a 2:1 aspect within Avid? Or some other solution.

Curious.

 

[Darren Orange]

You should be able to create your own letterbox in avid or just create a mask and use filler. There may be a better way but this might be a quick fix.

 

[Sean]

Right. I wondered if I'd have to use a mask. Thanks Reactor.

 

[MichaelP]

Or you could also adjust the image to full height in RedCine to not have the letterboxing but lose a little image on left and right as a compromise.

Michael

 

[Dylan Reeve]

I'd use a mask (I tend to do that with footage that is pre-letterboxed anyway, as some effects can tend to leak things into the letterbox).

Or do as Michael suggests and make it 16:9 by losing a little left and right.

The other option would be to set the sizing in REDCINE to stretch the full image into the 16:9 frame (creating an anamorphic 2:1 in 16:9) and then use a resize in Avid to make it 2:1 again.

 

[Seth Larney]

The other option would be to set the sizing in REDCINE to stretch the full image into the 16:9 frame (creating an anamorphic 2:1 in 16:9) and then use a resize in Avid to make it 2:1 again.

Only problem with this is as the rescaling algorithms would likely be different you may end up with aliasing artifacts and/or softening.

I would say masking in AVID may be your best bet..

 

[Dylan Reeve]

Indeed, there would be scaling issues. Depends on your needs I guess. For my quick turnaround project in a month or so, I'll probably be being a little rough and ready with it.

 

[Seth Larney]

Hey, nothing wrong with rough'n ready when the situation calls

 

[Jason Diamond]

i would not let AVID do the scaling if possible, you end up with mushyness sometimes i'd just use a new mask overtop of everything and do what you gotta do.