Cine Film Digital Output Formats
MPEG-4
We supply your films back to you in the very versatile MPEG-4 format. Works on any computer, phone, tablet or TV. We give you one file for each reel, named or numbered as you like. So, if you send 22 x reels of film, you will get back 22 x files on your stick. We deliver the files on a USB Stick. You can provide your own, or buy one of ours, from just £12.
Backup Hard Drive
It’s a good idea to have a backup of your project. Our backup service includes a copy of the above MPEG-4 files and also the ProRes 422 Master files. There’s also an option to add in the non-AI version (RAW Scan) in ProRes format. ProRes is a high-quality file that works with all the major editing programs. You will get one .mov file for each reel of cine. We deliver the files on a USB hard drive. We deliver the files on a USB hard drive. You can provide your own, or buy one of ours from just £70
Output Comparison Chart
MPEG-4 | ProRes | |
|---|---|---|
Image Size 1920x1080 full HD | Yes | Yes |
Image Size 3840 × 2160 in 4K ULTRA HD | Yes | Yes |
| What is the bitrate in HD? | 15Mbps | 147Mbps |
| What is the bitrate in 4K? | 25Mbps | 354Mbps |
What size are the files in HD? | 1.7GB (15 mins) | 14GB (15 mins) |
What size are the files in 4K? | 2.9GB (15 mins) | 56GB (15 mins) |
| Can I edit this format on my computer? | Yes | Yes |
| Will this work on my Mac? | Yes | Yes |
| Will this work on Windows? | Yes | Yes |
Will this format play directly on my iPhone/iPad? | Yes | Yes |
Will this format play on a compatible TV? | Yes | No |
FAQs
What is the image size you scan film at?
For HD Scanned at 2048 x 1536 then output to customer 1920×1080
For 4K Scanned at 5820 x 2880 then output to customer 3840 × 2160
How do you transfer cine film?
We use either a 2K or 5K lens on a full frame Phoenix frame scanner which takes individual photos of each cell of film. It does this by shining an infrared light through the sprocket hole. As the light hits the sensor, the film stops and the lens takes a photo. The film is illuminated using a Cool LED light so there is no risk of damage to your film.
Does cine film have enough information to warrant scanning at such high resolution?
Some customers assume that a High Definition (HD) or 4K (UHD) transfer is overkill for their 8mm, Super 8, 9.5mm or 16mm film. After all, it’s old! The fact is that resolution is only limited by the film grain size and the size of the frame. 8mm and Super 8 film have a maximum horizontal resolution of around 1000 lines. 9.5mm has 1200 lines and 16mm film has around 2400 lines. Standard definition video (which is what you use for DVD), is limited to just 576 lines.
Can you transfer Negative film ?
Yes we can transfer from Positive or Negative film. The price is the same.
What film formats can you transfer?
8mm, Super 8, 9.5mm, 16mm, Super 16 and 35mm film
Can you transfer sound film?
Yes Magnetic Sound from 8mm, Super8, 16mm
Optical Sound 16mm, 35mm, 9.5mm.
What formats do you output to ?
We can transfer to most formats. Our online order form offers MPEG-4, ProRes 422. If you require something that’s not on the online order form, please call us on 01626 683139.
Do you clean the film before transfer?
Yes, it’s essential to clean Cine Film prior to transfer. We have an excellent cleaning machine, and also undertake specialist and hand-cleaning where needed. This is all part of our service, and does not incur any extra cost.
Do you do any film restoration ?
Yes in a big way, our studios are equipped with the best restoration hardware and AI software for film which allows us to perform colour correction, AI image enhancement and reconstruction, Noise removal, sharpening highlights and softening shadows we can even add colour to black & white film (additional cost). Restoration and colour correction is of course dependant on the state of the original films, but this work is always undertaken and is all included in the cost. We can also include a non-AI version through our backup service.
How do I order?
It’s easiest for you to place your order online as the form prompts you with all the information we will need from you. However, don’t be afraid to phone us to let us help you build your order too. If you have odd lengths or you’re not sure what you have, we can pickup the films and do a full assessment for you.
How do I get the films to you?
You can send the order yourself using the Post Office, but most people prefer to let us collect the box using our courier service, which is free on ALL orders, no matter how large or small. Return delivery is also free.
How long does it take?
This is a tricky question. We receive orders from a single reel (takes a few days) to a room-full (could be months), so we’d need to know what you’re sending to give a lead-time. We find we are in high demand and always have lots of work already scheduled in, so if your order is needed in a hurry, you can go for the 7 days express service, or just phone and tell us what you need 🙂
