Explain Apple ProRes with P2

[take2visualmedia]

I've been reading an awful lot over the months about the Apple ProRes codec. What I'm trying to figure out is if I ingest my P2 footage is it a case of "it is what it is" if not how would I go about using the ProRes codec. I see it in "Easy Setup" but admit I am not sure of the workflow or advantage if any.

 

[NoahK]

There's not much advantage in converting P2 to ProRes before you start cutting. As you say- it is what it is and a conversion to a higher quality codec will just take up more space without adding any image quality back in. Besides, DVCPROHD from P2 is perfectly solid editing codec. ProRes is much more useful either as a mastering codec or as an 'offline' codec coming from uncompressed HD, 2K, RED or HDCAM SR, etc.

Noah

 

[Spartacus]

I usually use the Animation codec when rendering out clips that later will be altered again (eg a motion animation for a FCP project). Is ProRes a better choice now? Also can ProRes be used for SD projects?

 

[NoahK]

I haven't done a side by side test- the animation codec includes an alpha channel which is sometimes quite useful. But in general I'd suggest ProRes being designed for high-end video at efficient bitrates is superior. And now it's cross-platform too:

http://www.apple.com/support/downloads/appleproresquicktimedecoder10forwindows.html

Noah

 

[Spartacus]

Thanks!