Compressing DSLR Video For Web Delivery Tests

– November 3, 2010

I need ideas on the best ways to run a test.

Since I am learning a new NLE (PremiereCS5) I want to find out what the best settings are for exporting my movies out to the web are. So I thought that I would run a ton of tests on all the different render settings that I can think of and see which one looks the best for the web.

What I would like to do is create perhaps a 30 second video with 7 different clips that stress my DSLR to it limits to see how well it plays on the web.

Since I am just an advanced amateur at this I would like everyone’s feed back on the best way to run these tests before I launch into this lengthy processes.

I want video clips that I think will stress out the export process so I can easily detect which one is the best. These clips would be similar to Zacuto’s Great Camera Shootout of 2010.

  • “Low Key” one bulb with candle
  • Green screen test – fast moving hand with gradient background
  • Fast random motion (rapids)
  • Text in box far away – Screen captures after rendering (resolution test)
  • Color tests (Girl standing next to flowers) Color bars
  • “High Key” Back lit scene
  • Fast moving computer graphics. Also still text with clean edges

Originally when I first thought of this test I wanted to go big and ask some of the DSLR big wigs in the industry to judge the winners.

However I came to the conclusion that having the big wigs judge wouldn’t work. Why? Because I would like to sell the results and all the test renderings. Now I realize I am going to get some people asking that I do this for free, and I would love to do it for free, but hey I would like this site to be more than just a hobby site for me. :)

I need ideas on the best ways to run this test, so I am open to your input if you would like to participate.

I am looking for suggestions like:

  • Shoot it in a super flat setting and color in post.
  • Only do 1080p footage
  • Do this for the top three: Premiere, Final Cut Pro, Sony Vegas
  • Review not only what ends up on the web but what gets directly exported from the NLE.

Thanks!

Update – Free Pass to the Results

Thanks for everyone’s help. I realize I am asking for something with nothing in return, so for anyone that provides a suggestion on how to best administer the test or provide their own settings that they would like in the test I will provide a free pass to the results (non DVD, just digital download). The first one I will be doing will be on Premiere CS5 only, but if you like you can give me your Vegas or FCP settings too here.

Thanks again for your help.