High-Definition vs. Standard-Definition Video

High-Definition vs. Standard-Definition Video, Aspect Ratio, and Frame Rate

Just about everyone knows that HD stands for “high-definition,” but why do all those numbers matter to you?  Three words: quality, quality, and quality.  A Full HD image is just so much clearer, and because of its large size, all the small details can be seen much easier and clearer.  Also, when viewing HD video on a large TV or monitor, the video is usually shrunken to fit the screen, which means there is no loss of image quality.  In contrast, an SD video would have to be stretched to fit a large screen, thus decreasing its viewing quality and making the image look pixelated, or unsmooth.

Two other things to consider are aspect ratios and frame rates.  Aspect ratio refers to the shape of the image (the ratio of its horizontal length to its vertical height).  The two common aspect ratios are 4:3 (4×3 or standard) and 16:9 (16×9 or wide-screen).  The 4:3 ratio is definitely going by the wayside, as it is pretty rare for video to be shot in 4:3, in addition to TVs like your old square-ish tube TV being nearly extinct.  The most practical reason for the 16:9 ratio is that is much closer to the shape of what we see with our eyes; the image is much wider than it is tall (78% wider, as opposed to just 33% with the 4:3 ratio).  Click here to read more in-depth about aspect ratios and see some comparison images.

Frame rate in video refers to the number of frames shown per second (fps).  As you probably know, video (based off the concept of film and film projection, of course) is made up of still images that are shown quickly enough to “trick” the brain into seeing continuous motion.  We like to use the cinematic-looking 24fps, which is the typical frame rate for movies.  If placed side-by-side, just about anyone would notice the difference between footage at 24fps (movies) and 30fps (typical television/video frame rate).  The 30fps tends to have a more “realistic” feel, but the 24fps definitely has an artistic and engaging quality that is very hard to replicate or to fake by using effects.

The combination of using the highest quality and most aesthetically pleasing specifications will make all the difference in creating a professional, engaging and impactful video.

McElroy Films LLC Expands to Burlington

McElroy Films LLC Expands to New Location: Maintains Quality and Affordability

Burlington, MA – In today’s climate, it is more important than ever for businesses, organizations, and individuals to set themselves apart from their competitors. A video, whether for broadcast, social networking, presentations, or other means, can be the catalyst that allows a business to reach the next level or the non-profit to successfully fundraise.  Since its inception, McElroy Films (http://mcelroyfilms.com) has provided quality, affordable high definition video production with those needs firmly in mind.  McElroy Films has created content for everything from advertising and public service announcements for corporate, non-profit, and educational use to memorable wedding videography, special events, music videos, and independent film.

“I went into business for myself, first, because I have a passion for filmmaking and, second, because of an overwhelming need for inexpensive, but quality video in a region where video production costs continue to rise,” said Ben McElroy, owner of McElroy films.

After becoming a mainstay in central Massachusetts, McElroy Films was ready to bring its affordable high definition video production and commitment to customer service to the heart of a broader business community; Burlington Massachusetts was the natural fit.

“I wanted to be both more accessible to our clients as well as increase our presence in the Boston Area,” extolled McElroy. “Now clients can visit our easily accessible location and see our production processes first hand. It’s exciting to see video production come together and our clients can share in that excitement.”

McElroy’s mission is to render high definition easily accessible to everyone without sacrificing quality. He achieves this by customizing every project to each of his client’s specific needs. In addition to using his expansive knowledge and experience, Ben McElroy has a network of professionals in the field with which he can confer to create the best possible product. That being said, Ben makes sure that the client is there every step of the way and has full understanding of every element of the production process.

McElroy Films uses all professional quality equipment at every level of production. Cameras, such as the stunningly sharp Canon 7D, record HD video to cards rather than tape to streamline the editing process and get the content onto DVD’s, Blu-rays, and the internet faster and with greater precision. Sound is taken care of by wired and wireless ‘on-subject’ microphones; the same devices used for television and cinema. Once reserved only for high budget productions, McElroy also uses equipment such as dollies, GlideCams, sliders, and professional grade lighting to get that cinematic ‘look’ for any production. With the use of green screen technology, clients can even be interviewed at the new Burlington location and be digitally placed against any background right in the studio.

“Video is no longer limited to distribution by television or DVD,” explains McElroy. “The Internet has evolved into a communal environment where a company’s message can be spread to millions over social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, but that message has to be easily found on search engines such as Yahoo, Bing, and Google to be truly effective. In addition, companies have to find a way to keep users on their site long enough to hear out what they have to say. What better way do grab someone’s attention and get your message across than with embedded videos on home pages and blogs?”

To learn more about McElroy Films LLC, visit their website at http://mcelroyfilms.com, call (888) 303-2744 x703, or visit their new office at 101 Cambridge Street, Suite 300, Burlington, MA 01803.

About Ben McElroy

Ben started his career in high school as a documentarian, filming abroad in Turkey, Israel, Greece, and India for Open Air Campaigners, His Land Israel Tours, and The People’s Baptist College and Seminary. His college experience included the New York Film Academy, Full Sail University in Orlando, FL, and UMass Lowell. Ben won the National Press Photographers Award for outstanding photography during his time with the Lowell Sun and also spent time with the Associated Press, Manchester Union Leader, and Time Warner. His recent corporate videography includes pieces for Fenn School in Concord, MA, the Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America, etc.

About McElroy Films

McElroy Films LLC is a professional producer of high definition video for corporate, educational, non-profit, wedding, music video, and independent film use. Serving the Massachusetts and New England area, McElroy Films’ mission is to keep high definition video affordable without sacrificing quality. Ben McElroy and his staff take pride in their client-first approach and personalized attention to every project.

Canon 7D Slow Motion Footage

Ten Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Videographer

View the Press Release on PRWeb

Ben McElroy of McElroy Films offers his top 10 tips for hiring the right wedding videographer to help brides avoid some common pitfalls.

Leominster, MA (PRWEB) November 30, 2009 — December is the most popular month to get engaged according to The Wedding Report. Once the initial excitement wears off and a bride gets down to the business of wedding planning, she can often be overwhelmed at the number of decisions to be made. The actual wedding planning is important, but choosing the right videographer to preserve that special day is just as important.

“Choosing a videographer may take a lot of homework, but your do-diligence will pay off immensely. Your video is going to last a lifetime so make sure you’re happy with every aspect of production.” explains Ben McElroy of Massachusetts based McElroy Films. “There are a few pitfalls brides encounter, such as hiring a bait and switch company that subcontracts the work and not reading the fine print in their contract. A little planning in advance can help avoid these pitfalls.”

Here are McElroy’s top ten tips for choosing the right wedding videographer:

-   Start researching early. Take the time to do your homework. Make sure you meet with the actual person who will be shooting your wedding and have a list of questions ready. Research their education and experience. Do an internet search and visit forums and blogs. Ask to see previous customer testimonials.

-   Hire early on in the wedding planning process. Brides often wait until the last minute to hire a videographer but hiring early can make the process go more smoothly and open up additional video opportunities such as “save the date” videos.

-   View samples of their work in advance. Look for samples on their website. Watch as many videos from their archive as possible and pay attention to the quality of work. Look at the overall picture quality, composition, and transitions. Another crucial aspect is the audio quality. Ask if they use wireless microphones for professional quality sound. Some videographers use on board microphones only, but the sound quality is poor, especially for vows and speeches.

-   Choose a video production company with customizable service. A good production company will keep up on the latest trends in wedding videos and will offer client-driven services rather than an outdated, one-size-fits-all approach.

-   Be specific about the mood, style, and special effects you’re looking for. Bring samples with you to show what you want. Ask to see the different types of special effects they offer.

-   Ask about their video style. Some companies are now offering a modern approach to video including Save the Date, Vignettes, and Couple Stories. Find out what else can be included in your video such as highlights, credits, or photomontages. Cinematic Weddings is a hot video trend. They create an overall mood beyond basic footage. Look for videographers using HD cameras and glidecams, shooting in 24 frames per second (FPS), and who are knowledgeable in cinematic editing techniques.

-   Consider their personality and appearance. Look for someone with the best personality and look to match the wedding theme. Be sure to tell the videographer what to wear for the wedding. If there is more than one videographer at the production company make sure to meet the person who will shoot the wedding.

-   Make sure they are unobtrusive. A great wedding videographer won’t be noticed while still achieving everything needed to capture the big day. Ask if the videographer has experience at your ceremony and reception venues already. Videographers with newspaper or television experience are more likely to know proper etiquette and how to be unseen. State specific requests, such as not interrupting guests with interview questions, in advance.

-   Look for a company that offers High Definition (HD) from start to finish. Many companies are now offering HD, but not all HD is the same. Some videographers shoot in Standard Definition and then burn the footage to Blu-ray. Ask about what types of cameras they use and have them explain the differences. They should be using the latest HD cameras with 1080p resolution.

-   Find out if they can stay within your budget. Look for any additional fees. Most deposits are non-refundable so keep that in mind. Ask if they are running any discounts or special promotions. Many production companies are now offering a gift registry to finance wedding videos. This can be added to overall cost or toward specific items such as additional hours or extra DVDs.

About McElroy Films

McElroy Films LLC is a professional high definition video production company serving Massachusetts and New England. Specializing in corporate, educational, non-profit, wedding, independent filmmaking and music video production, McElroy Films provides a high quality product at a fraction of the cost. McElroy Films prides itself on its client-driven results and boutique-like service by affording each project the attention it deserves.

New Canon EOS 7D HD Footage

Some new HD footage from the Canon EOS 7D.
Lenses used
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS
Watch on Youtube!

Canon EOS 7D Footage from Ben McElroy on Vimeo.

Canon EOS 7D Sample Footage

Canon has finally unveiled the new Canon EOS 7D. This is one of the most anticipated Digital SLRs of 2009. Features include the ability to record HD video in 1920×1080 24p. On the photo side of things, it’s packing a whopping 18 megapixels.

Read our full blog post on this camera by clicking here.

Below you’ll find some sample footage we quickly through together from the Canon EOS 7D.
Click here to see the youtube version

Click on the video below to watch the Canon EOS 7D handle 60fps. We tagged along on a soccer shoot to get some great images.
Click here to see the youtube version

Canon 7D

The New Canon EOS 7D is in! This is one of the most anticipated Digital SLRs of 2009. Yesterday the good folks down at Hunts Photo and Video delivered the news that ours had arrived.

The EOS 7D is the newest high-end Digital SLR from Canon. This camera is packing an 18-megapixel CMOS sensor and uses dual DIGIC 4 image processors to provide pristine photos. The 7D also includes high-definition video! It can capture HD in a variety of frame rates and resolutions.

We’re excited to embrace where the video business is going. No longer are we stuck with tediously fiddling with focus and edge to edge sharpness with cumbersome 35mm adapters. We also don’t have the light loss we once had with those extra plates of glass in front of the camera. The 7D is going to obliterate traditional 35mm adapters. It’s a very powerful tool any video production company or freelancer should consider if they want to capture cinematic videos.

Couple reasons why this technology is going to be a game changer when it comes to high definition videography.

1. Before the release of this camera the only other comparable camera offering HD video in an SLR was the Canon EOS 5D. This camera was a great success and lots of indie filmmaker bought them up and ebay’d their 35mm adapters. The only thing it lacked was 24p and 60p, plus a few other body/menu issues that were updated in the 7D.

2. Price is another big factor. The Canon EOS 7D is priced at $1699 (body only). The kit with a EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens, hood, filter and spare battery for $1999. The HD quality this camera puts out is comparable to cameras in the price range of ten to thirty thousand dollars.

3. Finally, up until this point achieving narrow depth of field in video has been very hard to accomplish. One would have to invest two to four thousand dollars to get a 35mm adapter. Now it’s conveniently packaged into a small DSLR body. It is just amazing where technology has come!

New Features of the Canon 7D

• 18 Megapixel CMOS Sensor and Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors for high image quality and speed.
• ISO 100-6400 (expandable to 12,800) for shooting from bright to dim light.
• 8.0 fps continuous shooting up to 126 Large/JPEGs with UDMA CF card and 15 RAW.
• Advanced movie mode with manual exposure control and selectable frame rates: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD): 30p (29.97) / 24p (23.976) / 25p, 1280 x 720 (HD): 60p (59.94) / 50p, 640 x 480 (SD): 60p (59.94) / 50p.
• Intelligent Viewfinder with 100% field of view, wide viewing angle of 29.4°, high magnification of 1.0, intelligent viewfinder with glass pentaprism and an overlaid LCD display in viewfinder supports various shooting styles.
• New 19-point, all cross-type AF system equipped with dual diagonal cross-type sensors in center at f/2.8 and f/5.6 and AF area selection modes to match various shooting situations.
• iFCL Metering with 63 zone dual-layer metering sensor that utilizes AF and color information for optimizing exposure and image quality.
• Magnesium body with shutter durability up to 150,000 cycles and exclusive dust and weather resistance.

Check back when we have some samples to show.