Camera recording mode utilizing the full sensor area without cropping – captures maximum resolution and field of view, providing flexibility for reframing in post-production, stabilization, and delivering multiple aspect ratios from a single recording.
What is Open Gate?
Open Gate is a camera recording mode that utilizes the entire sensor area without cropping. This maximizes resolution and field of view for post-production flexibility.
Basic Principle
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Full sensor format |
| Cropping | None |
| Resolution | Maximum |
| Aspect Ratio | Native sensor ratio |
Typical Sensor Ratios
| Camera | Open Gate Ratio |
|---|---|
| ARRI ALEXA LF | 1.44:1 (4.5K) |
| ARRI ALEXA 35 | 1.55:1 (4.6K) |
| Sony Venice | 1.5:1 (6K) |
| RED Monstro | 1.9:1 (8K) |
Why Open Gate?
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Reframing | Shifting in post |
| Stabilization | Pixel buffer for warp |
| Multi-Format | One take, many outputs |
| Future-Proofing | Capture maximum |
Open Gate vs. Crop Modes
| Aspect | Open Gate | Crop Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Area | 100% | Less |
| Resolution | Maximum | Reduced |
| Data Amount | Larger | Smaller |
| Flexibility | Highest | Limited |
ARRI ALEXA Modes
| Mode | Aspect Ratio | Pixels |
|---|---|---|
| Open Gate | 1.55:1 | 4608×2968 |
| LF Open Gate | 1.44:1 | 4448×3096 |
| 16:9 | 1.78:1 | Cropped |
| 2.39:1 | 2.39:1 | Anamorphic |
Sony Venice
| Mode | Description |
|---|---|
| 6K Full Frame | 6048×4032 |
| 5.7K 16:9 | Cropped |
| 4K | Further crops |
| Open Gate | Maximum sensor area |
Reframing Workflow
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Record Open Gate |
| 2 | Choose framing in post |
| 3 | Apply masks/cropping |
| 4 | Export to target format |
Stabilization
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Reserve Pixels | For Warp Stabilizer |
| Crop Factor | 10-20% for stabilization |
| Open Gate Advantage | No visible loss |
| Workflow | Stabilize, then crop |
Multi-Format Delivery
| From Open Gate | Target Format |
|---|---|
| Cinema | 2.39:1 Scope |
| TV | 16:9 (1.78:1) |
| IMAX | 1.43:1 |
| Social | 9:16 vertical |
Anamorphic Open Gate
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Sensor | Full height |
| Desqueeze | 2x in post |
| Result | Ultra-wide scope |
| Advantage | Maximum resolution |
Data Amount
| Mode | Comparison |
|---|---|
| Open Gate | Largest files |
| 16:9 Crop | ~20% smaller |
| 4K Crop | ~40% smaller |
| Storage | Plan accordingly |
Codecs for Open Gate
| Codec | Suitability |
|---|---|
| ARRIRAW | Optimal for ARRI |
| ProRes 4444 XQ | High-quality |
| X-OCN | Sony Venice |
| R3D | RED Cameras |
Framing Guides
| Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Frame Lines | Display in viewfinder |
| Multiple Guides | 2.39, 16:9, etc. |
| Safe Areas | For all formats |
| Post Decision | Remain flexible |
Challenges
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Large Files | More storage |
| Processing | More powerful systems |
| Framing | Use guides |
| Lenses | Cover larger circle |
Lens Requirements
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Image Circle | Must cover full sensor |
| Large Format | For LF Open Gate |
| Vignetting | Check at edges |
| Quality | To the corners |
Best Practices
| Practice | Reason |
|---|---|
| Plan Framing | Despite flexibility |
| Use Guides | For all target formats |
| Budget Storage | Larger files |
| Inform Post | Coordinate workflow |
Today
Open Gate is standard in high-end film production. The ability to capture maximum sensor information provides filmmakers with unparalleled flexibility for reframing, stabilization, and multi-format delivery. With increasing resolutions and diverse distribution platforms, Open Gate is often the safest choice for future-proofed footage.