Setting the Project Format

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Studio can produce projects in a variety of formats, most notably standard (4:3 aspect ratio) and widescreen (16:9 aspect ratio). Studio can now also mix video files for both formats in the same project, though when rendering, the program must output one format or the other.

Once a project is started, you can't change the format. What you can do, however, is control the format for new projects via the controls shown in Figure 2.52. As shown in the figure, you can let the first clip added to the project set the format, or choose the new format from the drop-down list.

Figure 2.52. You can't change the format of your current project, but you can specify the format for new projects.


If you're only working in one format, like most producers, you should choose the second option using your usual format. If you're mixing formats, like 16:9 and 4:3 video, you should also choose the second option, selecting your target output format as the designated format.

About 16:9 Mode

The designation 16:9 is what's called an aspect ratio, which defines the relationship between horizontal and vertical display units in a display technology such as a television set. For example, all camcorders sold in the United States shoot in an aspect ratio of 4:3, because that's the aspect ratio most domestic television sets use to display video.

In addition to supporting 4:3, most new DV camcorders also support the 16:9 aspect ratio. The 16:9 mode captures video in a widescreen format like that used in Hollywood movies, making it ideal if you have a widescreen television or high-definition television (HDTV) that supports widescreen footage. Check the documentation that came with your camcorder to learn how to enable and disable this shooting mode.

When's the Right Time for 16:9?

Before shooting in 16:9 format, consider where you and others will view your project. This format works best with older widescreen televisions and newer HDTVs. In addition, most software DVD players like Sonic Solutions' CinePlayer and InterVideo's WinDVD can play both 16:9 and 4:3 video.

However, some standard TV sets (neither widescreen nor HDTV) will stretch the video vertically to full screen, distorting its appearance. You'll likely get similar results if you output your video to analog tape such as VHS. So while 16:9 may look great in your own living room, it might not look so great on grandma's older TV set, a definite factor to consider when choosing your shooting format. If you're unsure of the capabilities of the television or other device that will play your upcoming project, the best course is to test before shooting a major production. Shoot some video in 16:9 format and then capture and render to DVD, to tape, or to whatever format you intend to distribute. Make sure that the video is displayed correctly on your target device. Otherwise, you may be in for a nasty surprise when you show your video masterpiece.


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    Pinnacle Studio 10 for Windows. Visual QuickStart Guide
    Pinnacle Studio 10 for Windows Visual Quickstart Guide
    ISBN: B001E08S6S
    EAN: N/A
    Year: 2005
    Pages: 189

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