Best workflow for large QT files to 2 layer dvd?

[Brad Wright]

You want to resize your video footage to SD before encoding a DVD. Follow the workflow outlined in this Article that I wrote about transferring your HD video to DVD.

Brad Wright is software engineer, so it may be difficult to understand what he is saying. He is always happy to explain his greater detail.

[Scott Day]

Thanks Brad,

Great article, found answers to some of the problems. I am curious about the Dual layer single side DVD. From FCP I exported a 1280×720 89.13 gig file to QT. I added this asset into DVD-StudioPro after processing, it shows the asset as 83.01 gig.

Although the settings are set for DL the estimated size in the inspector shows 3.8 gigs. I would like to understand the process of using the full capacity of the dual, especially if there is improvement to the finished DVD quality. I also had the same QT asset in compressor and created a mpeg2, H264, all created large gig files and once imported into DVDSP they were reduced to under 4 gigs. The resolution has also been reset to 720x480i? I am happy to see the result as it plays well on set top and computer, I just cant help but wonder how to process the big video files so that I can use the 7-8 gig DVD’s and if there is an advantage. So much conflicting info out there.

I am trying to hone in on a workflow that works for me. I am shooting DVCPROHD720p60 on a Panasonic HVX200a and searching for the best possible DVD output for clients. As I am learning Motion, I have been working with 1920×1080 frames and importing them into the FCP timeline. Should I reduce the motion size to more closely match the Panasonic source of 960×720 to gain better text rendering?

I hope this is no to vague for an engineer type.
Thanks,

Scott

Scott Day FilmWorks

[Brad Wright]

I would avoid using 60p as a format for eventual transfer to DVD. It’s going to be converted to 29.97 during the encoding process. Unless you are doing some trick slow motion, you want to stick with the lowest frame rate possible. The HVX200 has a widescreen standard definition sensor. It is not a true HD camera. Therefore, I’d would recommend keeping it at 720p to avoid resizing artifacts in the video.

Brad Wright is software engineer, so it may be difficult to understand what he is saying. He is always happy to explain his greater detail.

[Scott Day]

Thank you Brad, great advice.

Scott

Scott Day FilmWorks