Re: Standard Def Waveform Vector on HD

Tony-
Since I am using the Panasonic HDX900 you can safely assume I am shooting High Def. My work flow usually innvolves shooting HD to tape, digitizing into Final Cut uncompressed, performing the edit and spitting the final product out, down converting to Digital Beta Cam for distribution. Why would I consider "If then view in Crappy NTSC, record to VHS and make dubs based on a Compuvideo NTSC waveform"?

I really don't consider the HDX900 low cost HD. We all have to be realistic with the budgets given us and I always try to give my clients the best bang for their buck. Thanks to major manufacturers throwing low cost HD cameras on the market there are a thousands young folks know nothing about density and color space, yet we have to compete with them in the market place Unless something goes horribly wrong with an image many times the client usually doesn't notice.

I usually set my camera up using a Chroma DuMond chart and set my blacks to the 7.5 standard and was looking for some helpful advice on the pitfalls of using an SD waveform/vectorscope. Thank you Tom Krohn I appreciate your advice. You are very correct once your blacks are crushed they are...well, crushed. Knowing where the product will end up has never been more important in the workflow process. Any practical advice in these times of transition in greatly appreciated.