Successful film production requires thorough planning well before exposing the first
frame. Besides the normal preparations, additional issues must be considered when you
intend to edit the film digitally. These issues may affect the film you use, how you record
your sound, and other aspects of your production.

This chapter provides basic information about many of the issues you will face:

• Which film to use

• Choices for transferring the film to video

• Frame rate issues between the film, your video standard, and your editing timebase

• Audio issues such as which recorder and timecode to use and how to synchronize the

audio with the video

• Issues with Final Cut Pro such as selecting a sequence timebase and using effects

Note: Much of this information is very general in nature and is not intended to serve as
a complete guide to filmmaking. The digital filmmaking industry changes rapidly, so what
you read here is not necessarily the final word.

Before You Begin Your Film Project