DPX Sequence

Overview

DPX (Digital Picture Exchange) is a per-frame file format widely used for scanned film and intermediate finishing. It supports high bit depths (10/12/16-bit), log encodings, and headers that carry timecode, keycode, and colorimetry. Because each frame is independent, corruption of one file does not doom an entire reel.

Strengths for Preservation

Open documentation, predictable performance in grading/VFX, and compatibility with archival practices make DPX a staple for preservation masters. Log encodings capture negative densities efficiently, and header metadata anchors provenance.

Operational Notes

Sequences require robust naming (show_reel_frame.dpx) and verified frame counts per reel. Storage overhead is significant; LTO planning is essential. When used in HDR pipelines, ensure transforms from log-scan space to display space are documented and included with the master.

Pitfalls

DPX lacks built-in checksums per frame; rely on external manifests. Mixed endianness or vendor-specific header fields can confuse tools—standardize on a house profile and validate with command-line inspectors during QC.

Related Terms

• TIFF sequence, digital preservation master, LTO tape, OCIO/LUT.