Using a Universal Negative Image Format for the Production of Films with Any Desired Aspect Ratio
This paper is a report on the practical experience acquired and the technologies evolved through putting to use an earlier proposal for a universal negative image format on 35mm film. Several films have been produced in the USSR using the new method. Camera modifications necessary for the method are enumerated, together with comments on viewfinder masking and usable camera optics. During actual filming, image composition and focusing require careful consideration. Appropriate placing of titles and credits within the image area is discussed. Topics such as negative sharpness, the printing and previewing of the dailies in the universal format and the necessary editing equipment are touched upon. Special sound recording procedures as applied to the universal format method are explained. Four different release printing sequences or systems are described in detail, each permitting one to obtain final release prints in several desired anamorphic and non-anamorphic aspect ratios ranging from 2.35:1 to 1.37:1 on film formats ranging from 16 to 70 mm.
- Print ISSN
- 0036-1682
- Published
- 1977-06
- Content type
- Original Research
- DOI
- 10.5594/J08124