4K+systems theory basics for motion picture imaging: Part 1 Resolution Sharpness

摘要

While five years ago digital cameras and cell phones were the biggest thing in consumer electronics, the most popular phrase nowadays seems to be "HD. " One could think that the "H" in HD stands for "Hype." Although professionals have a clear definition for HD (1920 × 1080 pixels, at least 24 full frames per second, preferably 4:4:4 color resolution), at electronics stores we see the "HD-Ready" sticker on hardware which offers considerably less performance (1280 × 1024 pixels, 4:2:1, strong compression, etc.). On display is a large monitor showing images that are usually interpolated standard definition (720 × 576 pixelsor less). What the catchword HD means for the living room is - on a different quality level - comparable to the discussion of 2k vs. 4k in professional postproduction - expectations, and sometimes just basic information couldn't be more contradictory. Yet an increasing number of major film projects are already being successfully completed in 4k. So, it's high time for a technically-based appraisal of what we really mean by 2k and 4k. This article strives to make a start.