The Simple Lens

Recording - ProRes vs CinemaDNG

After talking to a number of potential renters It has come to my attention that I probably don’t have enough memory cards for most people doing heavy production work. With only 30 min of memory card time I’m still about 1hr 30 min short of what most people feel comfortable with.

My intention has always been to use an external recorder such as the HyperDeck Shuttle when I needed more recording time. For me these situations would be controlled, like interviews, where having the extra weight and power requirements wouldn’t be a problem. Since Apple ProRes is far easier for me to edit with anyways I’d almost prefer to be shooting in that format all the time.

But What About RAW?

Of course one of the biggest things people like about this camera is that it shoots CinemaDNG RAW. The options that format brings for grading are great, and I’m no colorist, but to my mind, good exposures and Apple ProRes 422 (HQ) should be almost on par. To my mind the GAME CHANGING difference the camera brings is the CCD. With a global shutter and analog look, the camera’s CCD is really what you notice on the screen. And that doesn’t change with the recording format. Apple ProRes recorded off the 10-bit HDSDI will still look as filmic as the CinemaDNG files. And ultimately the workflow becomes easier since ProRes is so much more supported.

So, I guess this is my way of opening up the debate: what are the real advantages of a CinemaDNG workflow vs a ProRes (HQ) workflow? Do you think it makes a difference? Would you use the camera without CinemaDNG files?

Oh, and can we make cDNG catch on instead of having to type out CinemaDNG all the time?