Filcentrering

Filcentrering is a process used in filmmaking and video production to ensure that the visual center of the frame aligns with the geometric center of the camera's sensor or film plane. This technique is particularly important when shooting with anamorphic lenses or when precise composition is crucial. Anamorphic lenses compress the image horizontally during filming, and this compression needs to be "de-squeezed" in post-production. Filcentrering helps maintain the correct aspect ratio and prevent distortions by accurately positioning the de-squeezed image within the frame.

The process typically involves adjusting the camera's settings or using specific equipment during the shoot. In some digital cameras, this can be achieved by adjusting the sensor's readout window or by applying digital corrections. For anamorphic lenses, the goal is to ensure that the lens's optical axis is perfectly aligned with the camera's image plane. Misalignment can lead to subtle distortions, particularly in the curvature of lines and the rendering of out-of-focus elements (bokeh).

While the term "filcentrering" is not as commonly used as "anamorphic de-squeeze" or "lens centering," it encapsulates the broader concept of aligning the filmed image with the camera's optical and digital center for optimal results. Achieving proper filcentrering is a technical aspect that contributes to the final quality and aesthetic of a film or video, ensuring that the director's intended visual composition is faithfully reproduced.