Filmmaking Terms Starting With P

Props Notes

Detailed inventory and instructions for the management and continuity of props.

ProRes

An Apple-defined codec family balancing image quality with edit-friendly performance.

ProRes RAW

ProRes RAW is a codec from Apple that combines the quality and flexibility of raw video with the high performance of the ProRes family of codecs.

Prosthetic Makeup

The use of molded appliances to alter an actor’s appearance for film.

Prosthetics

Custom sculpted appliances used to alter an actor’s physical features.

Proxy Transcode

The creation of lower-resolution copies of high‑resolution footage to speed up editing and review workflows.

Pull Down

Pull down is the process used to convert the 24 frames-per-second rate of motion picture film into video formats with higher frame rates.

Pull Focus

Pull focus is a technique where a camera operator adjusts focus to keep moving subjects sharp during a shot.

Pull Out

A pull out is a camera movement where the camera moves away from the subject to reveal context or create emotional distance.

Pull the Pins

A preparatory step in magazine loading involving removal of film tension pins.

Pull Up

Pull up is the process of increasing a video's frame rate and pitch, typically to convert it from the NTSC standard to the PAL standard.

Push In

A push in is a camera movement where the camera moves forward toward the subject to intensify dramatic effect.

Push-processing

Push-processing is a photochemical lab technique where motion picture film is intentionally overdeveloped to increase its light sensitivity, creating a distinctly gritty, high-contrast, and grainy aesthetic.

Pyrotechnics

Controlled on-set explosions, flames, and sparks created by licensed special effects technicians.