Converting Pixels from square to non square

A

abeas

Well-known member
Should one ever convert square pixels to non square pixels? I was working with someone who had AVCHD video and rather than converting to Pro Res, someone had him drop the MTS files into toast and export to HDV (I don't know why.) Obviously, besides converting to a Long-GOP codec, his dimensions changed from 1920 to 1440. I know some people also take their h.264 codec based files and convert to DVCPro HD, which again is non square pixels. I'm not sure why.
I guess my question is, is it okay to convert square to non square pixels and vice versa, or should you try to keep your pixel aspect the same at all times?
 
I do the opposite. If my project will be for web, I always convert to square, (at least when I shoot with my xha1, or hv30) if I use my t3i, or gh2, I keep them square (no change).

I read somewhere that it's better to use square pixels for internet, not sure why. but it works, and it looks good so I just go with it. Although I honestly cant see any difference in quality between 1440 and 1920. But I imagine some can.
 
Computer monitors use square pixels, hence making it better for the web I suppose. Still not sure why you would ever want to go from square to non square.
 
My only guess is aspect ratio, If you want to go with a 16x9, im pretty sure it uses a 1.33 anamorphic aspect ratio. Thats all I can come up with, sorry couldnt be more help. Im sure Barry would be able to shed some light on this. Although he hasn't been around as much lately for some reason.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top