Last Updated 2 days ago
Filmmaking Dictionary / Letter Q
Browse filmmaking terms starting with Q, from quad-split monitoring and quality control to quarter-strength gels and production quotes. Each listing has a quick explanation and a link to its full definition.
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Quad Split
A monitor layout showing four video sources in a two-by-two grid. It helps a crew compare camera views, but the smaller windows have limits for judging focus and fine image detail.
Qualifying Shot
An informal description for coverage that supplies context needed to understand nearby shots, such as geography or a relationship. Its function can overlap with an establishing shot; it is not a standard shot size.
Quality Control (QC)
Checks of finished assets against their technical and presentation requirements, including picture, sound, synchronisation, captions and file specifications. QC includes the actual exported or packaged asset.
Quantize
To map values to discrete levels. In digital media, quantization concerns numerical precision; in music software, timing quantization moves events toward a rhythmic grid. The intended meaning depends on context.
Quarter Apple
An apple box with a nominal height of 2 inches. A half apple is 4 inches high; an eighth apple, often called a pancake, is 1 inch high.
Quarter CTB
A relatively light blue colour-correction grade used for a modest cooling shift. The result depends on the filter and starting source; quarter CTB does not mean a quarter-stop reduction.
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Quarter CTO
A relatively light orange colour-correction grade used for a modest warming shift. It is weaker than full CTO within the same range and does not specify a fixed Kelvin subtraction or exposure loss.
Quarter Grid Cloth
A lighter grade of grid-cloth diffusion. It generally scatters less light than heavier grades in the same range, but the effect and transmission are product-specific. Quarter does not mean a quarter stop.
Quarter Spot
An informal instruction for an intermediate spot–flood adjustment. Confirm the starting point and desired beam coverage: it is not a standard beam angle, dimmer percentage or exposure value.
Quarterback (Slang)
A sports metaphor for someone coordinating a team, sometimes used to describe the 1st AD. It is not a separate crew position or formal credit; use the actual role title when assigning work.
Quartz Lamp
In film-lighting usage, usually a tungsten-halogen lamp with a quartz envelope. It produces light from a heated filament. Quartz does not identify the wattage, voltage, base or fixture optics.
Quasar Tubes
An informal name for tube-shaped LED lighting products made by Quasar Science. Colour capability, power, control and mounting requirements depend on the model rather than the tube shape or brand alone.
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Queue
A collection of jobs waiting for processing, such as renders, transcodes or exports. Each job needs the correct source, settings and destination. A processing queue is different from a performance or technical cue.
Quick Release Plate
A plate and matching receiver for attaching and removing equipment quickly. Systems are not universally interchangeable; check compatibility, engagement and the intended load for the actual support.
Quick Study
Someone who learns new material or instructions rapidly. The phrase often describes an actor absorbing dialogue, blocking or adjustments quickly, while still needing the rehearsal and preparation required for the scene.
QuickTime Reference File
A movie file that points to externally stored media instead of containing all the picture and sound itself. It can be small but depends on the referenced files and compatible software remaining available.
Quiet on Set
A call to stop unnecessary noise and activity as the crew prepares to record. It protects performance and sound recording; required safety communication still takes priority.
Quote Sheet
A supplier’s written breakdown of proposed goods or services and prices. Compare scope, quantities, dates, rate assumptions, exclusions and terms before treating two quotes as equivalent.
Quote-to-Cash
The business process from preparing a quotation through agreement, fulfilment, invoicing and collecting payment. It applies to production suppliers and freelancers as well as other industries.
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