How to Use Open Gate to Improve Your Videos

The number of cameras offering Open Gate functionality has increased significantly over the past few years, and many creators are asking the same questions. What is, after all, the point of this magic, new feature? Should I buy a new camera for its sake? As one who manages the entire video creation process by himself, I am aware of the importance of having the right gear, using it to its full extent, implementing a workflow that works for me, and avoiding spending my life editing. So, like everyone else, I was intrigued. Here is what I found about Open Gate and how to leverage its benefits.

What Is the Open Gate Functionality in a Camera?

Open Gate is a feature that allows a camera to record videos using the entire area of the digital sensor. Hence, instead of getting videos at only,the aspect ratio you requested (e.g., the standard 16:9), you get video footage at a 3:2 aspect ratio from a full-frame or APS-C sensor and at a 4:3 aspect ratio from a Micro Four Thirds sensor.

Regardless of the sensor’s aspect ratio, you get more pixels, which comes in very handy in post-processing, as you’ll see later on. For example, the image below has a 3:2 aspect ratio. If you shoot 16:9, you’ll miss some of the data near the top and/or bottom edge. If you shoot vertically, 9:16, you’ll miss even more data from near the left and right edges.

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