GL2 16:9 Advice

[DocuGirl]

Hi,

I am shooting a documentary in Argentina, using a Canon GL2 and Panasonic PV-GS150. I would like to enter the film in festivals when it's finished, and for this reason, realize that I need to shoot in 16:9. But I am totally overwhelmed by the amount of information out there on this.

I have read that the PV-GS150 shoots "true 16:9" but with the GL2 it gets a little more complicated. I have read that the best way to get true 16:9 for the GL2 is to shoot in 4:3 with an adaptor lens. I have also read about the 16:9 guides that are available in the GL2, but it seems to me that I would have to crop in post and would thus lose quality.

Basically, my question is what is the best way to shoot 16:9 keeping as much quality of picture as possible with as little distortion. Any advice would be appreciated.

Thank you!
Casey

 

[Huy Vu]

Neither shơots "true 16:9." Whatever widescreen mode they have are electronic and will cost you resolution. One way to get 16:9 is to use an anamorphic adapter, although that's unwieldy, especially on the GS150. Quality (sharpness) wise, the best way is to just shoot 4:3 and then crop it in post. And for the record, you don't "need" to shoot 16:9 to enter into festivals. The film will never get rejected because it isn't widescreen. If the content is good, it'll get in.

 

[DocuGirl]

That makes sense...I was wondering why the PV-GS150 would have a "true" 16:9 when the GL2 did not.

Thanks!

 

[Captain Pierce]

For what it's worth, I've had good luck with the GL2's "squeeze" mode.