The ProRes choice, thoughts on which one?

8string

8string

Well-known member
So Apple has multiple editing codecs: ProRes 422 (Proxy), ProRes 422 (LT) and ProRes 4444, in addition to the original ProRes 422 and ProRes 422 (HQ).

I understand when to use Proxy (on my laptop), and 4444 (never), but don't really understand when or whether to use LT, 422, or HQ with my 150 AVCHD video. I assume I should choose one of them and stick with it. So far I've chosen HQ, but if I can get similar quality with 422 then I'd prefer to use it to lower time in rendering and exporting. Obviously, I could do some tests (and will soon, but am in the middle of a project), but my question has more to do with what folks have chosen based on their experiences, things I might not see in a test (because I don't know what to really look for) and whether I'll "pay" for using a lesser codec when I go to project on 50" TVs, Blu-Ray, or wall size screens. Or is there a workflow that allows a variety of options without remembering a series of steps that rivals ballroom dancing?

This might be a good FAQ topic, and I didn't see it addressed here, even though I searched, so thought I'd ask.
 
Yeah I personally don't know why they added those extra formats- they are not really that different. I generally use ProRes or ProRes HQ for everything. 4444 only when doing something with an alpha channel. Proxy for proxy and ignore the rest.

Noah
 
I just found this white paper by Apple in my searches today. This explains and benchmarks all their codecs to themselves. It's a good read, but still leaves my question open as to the everyday choices, such as you mention. When do you choose HQ over standard ProRes?

The Apple White Paper - this will download the PDF to your browser.
[PDF] Apple ProRes White Paper

- 10:26am

Description: File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat - Quick View
Apple ProRes 422 and Apple ProRes 422 (HQ) were introduced with the release ..... Data Rates - Apple ProRes 422 (LT) versus Apple ProRes 422 ...
images.apple.com/.../Apple_ProRes_White_Paper_July_2009.pdf - Similar
 
If I'm working on a project that I want just a little more quality or I notice colors and sharpness dying a bit I'll go up to HQ. If you read the white paper and use a good monitor you'll be able to figure out for yourself which codecs fit your compromise between speed and quality. There's no one 'correct' usage for all flavors of ProRes.

Noah
 
Hi i plan on doing some green screen shots soon. From reading the white paper does this mean i should shoot these sequences in pro res 444 since this involves compositing? Also is footage from the 5d at 1920 by 1080 considered a 444 source? I read the paper and my head hurts a little...all that white lol. Thanks again!!!
 
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