Difference between Native files or Cineform files?

Mikael Bergstrom · July 10th, 2009, 12:01 PM

I have a few questions.

1.What is the difference between native and Cineform files?

2.What is the difference in selecting the "Main Concept MPEG PRO" or Cineform HD 4?

Regards
Mikael Bergstrom

David Taylor · July 10th, 2009, 08:04 PM

It depends on how you're using the term "native". Sometimes that means the format used when recorded in a camera. If that's the definition you intend here, then native files were never intended for editing. You *can* edit them, but they were not intended for that purpose. Instead they were intended for recording your onto media. Usually that means a constant bit rate (tape formats) or files as small as possible (AVCHD on flash media). Both are compromises when you take your media into post production.

Editing native files can be done but usually at reduced performance compared to a format intended for editing (like CineForm) and also at reduced quality. With rare exceptions all camera formats are 8 bits, and you're better off taking a 10-bit file through post because of increased precision at render stages.

Consequently CineForm recommends converting camera formats into CineForm files for the highest quality and highest performance workflow.

Main Concept is one of the MPEG codec providers. MPEG is an acquisition and distribution format. CineForm is a Wavelet-based post-production format.

July 10th, 2009, 12:01 PM	#1
Mikael Bergstrom Regular Crew Join Date: Sep 2007 Location: Stockholm Posts: 68	Difference between Native files or Cineform files? I have a few questions. 1.What is the difference between native and Cineform files? 2.What is the difference in selecting the "Main Concept MPEG PRO" or Cineform HD 4? Regards Mikael Bergstrom

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July 10th, 2009, 08:04 PM	#2
David Taylor Major Player Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Solana Beach, CA Posts: 780	It depends on how you're using the term "native". Sometimes that means the format used when recorded in a camera. If that's the definition you intend here, then native files were never intended for editing. You can edit them, but they were not intended for that purpose. Instead they were intended for recording your onto media. Usually that means a constant bit rate (tape formats) or files as small as possible (AVCHD on flash media). Both are compromises when you take your media into post production. Editing native files can be done but usually at reduced performance compared to a format intended for editing (like CineForm) and also at reduced quality. With rare exceptions all camera formats are 8 bits, and you're better off taking a 10-bit file through post because of increased precision at render stages. Consequently CineForm recommends converting camera formats into CineForm files for the highest quality and highest performance workflow. Main Concept is one of the MPEG codec providers. MPEG is an acquisition and distribution format. CineForm is a Wavelet-based post-production format.