Video Format Matrix:

Baughan Productions uses many formats, based on budget and intended distribution.

Here's a quick overview:

Standard definition video: It's is what you've been watching for years and is used for most productions. It can be either a regular 4:3 or widescreen 16:9 aspect ratio. Shot with Betacam SP, DV, Digital Betacam, and file based XDcam, P2 and DVD.

It looks the best when mastered to a DVD and played with an SVHS cable or component cable to a properly adjusted Sony Trinitron® television. It goes downhill from there, when satellites, cable companies, and broadcast antennas are involved.

High Definition: Many competing flavors, plus two DVD distribution formats. The best use for the cameras now is to get a film look and downconvert it to standard definition. This is the best looking format for everything.

Cheapest format: DV and its high definition brother HDV. In the right hands, these formats can look great, but they can go bad easily with poor lighting, fast motion, and its color limitations.

Most expensive: Film. For video, it's Sony 1080i HD. This format is used in feature films, including the latest Star Wars, many current TV shows and film-look commercials. Excellent color, contrast and lenses. Panasonic makes a competing 720P HD format which is cheaper and looks almost as good. It usually gets upconverted to 1080i.

Distribution: DVD and mpeg files. Web based formats like Windows Media, Flash, Quicktime and Real Media. The native video tape formats still work too, like BetacamSP, DV, HDV, Sony and Panasonic HD.

Obsolete video formats: 2" Quad videotape, 1" type A, B and C, 1/2" reel to reel, Betamax, VHS, VHS-C, 3/4" U-matic, 8mm film, Super 8 film, video8, Hi-8 and laser disc.