Overview
ISO 4246:1994 - Cinematography - Vocabulary is an international standard that compiles cinematographic terms and definitions specific to the motion-picture industry. Published as the second edition (1994), it cancels and replaces ISO 4246:1984 and was prepared by ISO Technical Committee ISO/TC 36 (Cinematography). The standard provides a consistent, bilingual (English/French) glossary intended to reduce ambiguity in technical communication across film production, post-production, laboratory and equipment contexts.
Key Topics
The standard is a vocabulary reference rather than a specification of procedures or measurements. Key technical topics covered include definitions and usage for terms such as:
- Printing and lab processes: A and B printing, additive printing, blow-up printing, answer print, check print
- Camera and projection components: aperture plate, aperture stop, blade (shutter), lamphouse, blimp (soundproof housing)
- Image formats and optics: aspect ratio, anamorphic attachment/print, anamorphotic processes
- Sound and recording: background track, balance stripe, aeolight (historical), ADR/looping references
- Special techniques and effects: blue-screen process (travelling matte), background projection, bipack film, animated film
- Film materials and handling: safety (acetate) film, winding (A-wind), perforation types (Bell & Howell), base/support
The standard also includes related terms considered useful for understanding core vocabulary in specific applications.
Applications
ISO 4246 is practical for organizations and professionals who need standardized cinematography terminology:
- Filmmakers and cinematographers - to ensure clear, shared understanding of technical terms on set and in creative planning
- Post-production and film laboratories - for consistent descriptions of printing, optical effects and lab workflows
- Equipment manufacturers and service providers - to align product documentation, user manuals and specifications with industry vocabulary
- Archivists, cataloguers and restorers - for accurate metadata, conservation reports and international exchange of film documentation
- Educators and translators - as an authoritative glossary for film education, translations and bilingual resources
Using ISO 4246 supports clear technical communication across international teams and reduces misinterpretation in contracts, specifications and training materials.
Related Standards
The ISO 4246 text references other ISO documents relevant to cinematography vocabulary and hardware, for example ISO 3042 (film edge/perforation orientation) and ISO 491 (perforation types). It is part of the broader body of cinema-related standards developed by ISO/TC 36.
Keywords: ISO 4246, cinematography vocabulary, motion-picture terms, film industry glossary, cinema standards, film terminology.
