framestretching

Framestretching is a visual effect used in video and film production to alter the aspect ratio of footage. It is achieved by digitally stretching or compressing the image horizontally or vertically without changing its original pixel dimensions. This technique is often employed to adapt content shot in one aspect ratio, such as widescreen, to a display with a different aspect ratio, like a standard television screen. The primary goal is to fill the entire screen space.

This method differs from letterboxing or pillarboxing, which involve adding black bars to preserve the original aspect ratio. Framestretching can result in distortions, making objects appear wider or narrower than they were originally filmed. The extent of this distortion depends on the degree of stretching or compression applied. While it can be a quick and simple solution for compatibility issues, it is generally considered a less desirable option than cropping or reframing when maintaining image fidelity is important. It is sometimes used intentionally for stylistic purposes, though this is less common.