Shooting theater in 24P or 60i? or even 30P

[Ike615]

I shoot a lot of theater and in the past I've always shot in 60i. I've done this so I could pan faster with out the fear of strobing (which you get in 24P), in the past I had to match up a non 24p camera and the DVX100, and also because I've always been told by other professional friends that I should shoot theater in 60i and leave 24p to more narrative pieces. But now that I have a HXV200 and a DVX100 I'm really tempted to shoot in 24p. I know what mode to shoot in is entirely subjective but I was wondering what others have decided to do when it comes to shooting theater and what your reasoning is. I'm shooting the Greek show Orestes this coming week so a quick reply would be great. Thanks!

- Isaac

 

[ullanta]

In general, I'd say stick to 60i. You are documenting, not filmmaking; and most likely what you're shooting will (a) never make it ti film and (b) never even make it to a progressive TV (in most cases). So: 24P will look worse. I've tested it for theatrical and musical events, and, in general, the response is "what's wrong with the video?"

I think part of this is that when you're covering a play with 1 or 2 cameras, you are by definition doing a lot of tripod-y panning and zooming, and those motions aren't great in 24p. Especially when you'll tend to be on the long end of your zoom, and a little jittery. With the DVX/HVX jerky zoom, etc.

I know it's tempting to use all the special features, but the vast majority of your clients will not only not care, they probably won't like it.

Just my 2 cents!

-Barry

 

[SomewhereinLA]

I say go 24p, adjusting the shutter speed should help with strobing, plus slower frame rate allow for more light. Progressive is such a nicer look, interlace is out. Actually the official HD system for the E.C.C is 720 progressive. Also if you ever need to fix something in post later on, 24P will give you better results.