General FAQs for Post Production QC
Updated by Rick Recco on 3/7/2024
Here is a list of General Video Quality Control Questions we frequently get asked about QC of Film & Movie Video/Audio, and The Broadcast Industry. This General FAQs for Post Production QC will answer those questions. This page combines all FAQ questions. It is also broken down by category in the links above.
Q: What types of Television shows, or movies need a Quality Control Report
A: Virtually all films, movies, and TV shows require a Quality Control Check at some point during the post production process. Television networks will not allow a show to air that has not received an approval or passing grade on a QC report. Often, the network will want a third party to perform the QC. The post facility that did the editing and output of the show may not be as stringent with their own work as an outside company would.
Film makers who get a distribution deal with a sales agent or film distributor will also be required to have a full video and audio Quality Control Report done before they accept a submission.
Q: What are the types of media that I can deliver to you to do a QC Report on my show?
A: That all depends on what you are delivering the finished product on. If you are delivering a file, such as quicktime or avid, then we should QC that file which is the final product that will be turned in. If it is being delivered on tape such as HDCAM SR, then we should QC the tape after it has been laid off from the edit master file.
Q: What happens if I have a project QC’d and it is rejected?
A: QC Central can work with you to fix any problems that cause the show to be rejected. Aside from Quality Control we are a Full Service Post Production House. We will consult with you in issues that need fixing. The client can opt to do the fixes or have us do the work for them. After fixes are done we do a fix check and when all issues are cleared issue a final approved report.
Q: What happens if I have a project QC’d and it is rejected?
A: In any QC report, is rejected we can work with you to fix the issues that caused the rejection. Aside from Quality Control, we are also a Full Service Post Production House. We will consult with you on issues that need fixing. The client can opt to do the fixes or have us do the work for them. After fixes are done, we do a fix check. When all issues are cleared a final report is issued.
Q: What types of issues would cause a TV show, or movie to be rejected in the quality control process?
A: There are myriad different scenarios that could cause a file undergoing broadcast QC to be rejected. These include: High luminance, low black levels, incorrect horizontal or vertical blanking, video hits, audio hits and much more. Our QC Process page gives a more in depth view of some of the issues we look for.
Q: What kind of turnaround time can I expect when sending you a project for QC?
A: Our motto is we are available on short notice 24/7. A full Quality Control inspection and report will be delivered to you usually within 1-2 days.
Q: I have completed the editing of my movie and now need to deliver it as a file, what is the best file type to use?
A: We recommend Apple Pro Res 4:2:2 HQ. for HD Files. This is a quicktime .mov file that can be exported from Final Cut Pro, or Adobe Premiere. For 4K, UHD, or 2K Files Apple Pr Res HQ 4:4:4:4 may be more desirable. We can also work with Avid files such as DNXHD as well.
Q: I am a first time film director and have signed a distribution deal. My movie is complete and they have given me a list of “deliverables.” I am new to the post process and not familiar with what they are asking for, what can I do?
A: We work with new filmmakers frequently and often act as a consultant / post supervisor. QC Central can work with you in all phases of the post process. We will work to make sure the QC report is approved, fixes are done if necessary, and the deliverable list is complete. Please contact us anytime for more info.
Q: Why should I hire your company instead of one of the other (bigger) companies out there?
Most Experience, Fastest Turnaround, and Best Prices. What more do you need? I started this company back in 2007 because I knew I could deliver exactly that. In that time, we have worked with a large majority of the companies in Hollywood and worldwide that provide Video content. We have a very long list of past Clients & Projects. When you hire QC Central, you are hiring an owner with over 33 years of experience in Broadcasting, Post Production & Quality Control.
You have direct access to the owner of the company virtually 24/7. You can call anytime with any questions you may have before, during, or after the job. Our QC standards are also the highest in the industry.
Q: OK we are ready to send your are project for QC, What exactly do we need to send?
A: Glad you asked. We have a page that answers that very question in fine detail it’s called What You Need To Send Us For Film QC. Please refer to this sheet for how to proceed. Of course we are also available to answer any additional questions. Email text or call anytime.