FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are you called Running Pixels?

Running Pixels started while analog film was the standard. Film was ‘run’ by professional film labs. Erik actually used to run film from set to the lab after a shoot via his motorcycle. Running Pixels offers the same services pro labs provided to photographers but with digital files instead of film. We process and manage images while ensuring top quality, proper color, and a style the photographer desires, thus we are Running Pixels.

What is the best digital camera?

There is no single best digital camera. In our opinion, the ‘best camera’ is the one you bond with and love to use. Each photographer demands different performance from a camera. A Canon, Nikon, Sony or Fuji is generally best at quick auto focus and capturing action shots on the fly. A Medium Format system can provide amazing resolution and detail. There are pros and cons of every camera system. Feel free to contact us about your shooting style or particular project and we can recommend a few options for you.

What computer system do you recommend for our studio photo shoot?

We love the latest 16 inch MacBookPro M series laptops and add EIZO 4K displays as needed. 13 inch iPadPros paired with our Teradek ServPro provide highly mobile viewing options. Utilizing a Remote Video Village EIZO 4K monitor for client viewing can help minimize people near the shooting area.

How about for a location based photo shoot?

If the job requires quick movements or multiple locations within a day, a low profile, battery powered kit can be a better solution. Our Laptop Kits are customized so they can setup instantly and move rapidly. Extended Battery Packs can be used to run a laptop all day long. Multiple 13 inch iPadPros offer a great mobile viewing solution. Remote Video Village EIZO 4K display setups are also available and can be battery powered.

Do you handle file delivery to my client?

Smooth file delivery to the end client is our goal. Expect questions from us about who is going to need what, when, and how. Any file processing that can be handled on set is included in our techs day rate. In our estimating process we do our best to address and predict all file delivery costs including SSD drives, ftp service, etc. Don’t hesitate to speak with us about your specific needs.

Can you handle our Motion Video files too?

We are happy to download and backup motion media; however, note additional gear and time may be required. We don’t usually do playback, transcoding, etc. Motion workflow can quickly escalate to a complicated workflow depending on client expectations. When a client is looking for the highest level of motion production, we recommend hiring a dedicated Motion DIT, VTR person, etc.

Will a Running Pixels Digital Tech work with my computer setup?

We prefer to work with our fine tuned equipment as we can guarantee the shoot day will go smoothly. If your computer has the appropriate capture software and ample drive space, we are happy to use your machine as our backup. We are very flexible about capture setups. All equipment is “a la carte” at Running Pixels. You only pay for what you order.

What should I do for storing all my digital photos?

Keep 2+ digital copies. 3+ is better. Two on-site and one off-site. RAIDs are great if you want to keep large amounts of data all on one volume. But don’t think they are foolproof. Any storage system can fail and it is essential that you back up important files often. We recommend keeping it simple. Design a workflow that makes sense for you and incorporates backups.

Is there a specific storage drive you recommend?

Name brand drives are the way to go. Don’t go cheap with your data storage. SSD drives from Other World Computing, Samsung, G-Tech, and Glymph have strong reputations for quality products. And remember multiple copies are the key to safe data!