Pitch Dictionary by pitch.dog
Timecode, metadata & file integrity · Specialist

Drop-frame timecode

Also called: DF

ELI5

A timecode numbering method that periodically skips frame numbers to stay aligned with clock time at certain fractional frame rates.

Used in conversation

“The delivery specification asks for drop-frame timecode, so post needs to plan for it now.”

Pitch context

This term helps a treatment describe how the camera or light will shape the viewer's experience.

Why it matters: Explains how recorded material becomes a finished, approved and technically deliverable work.

Connected terms

  • Non-drop-frame timecodeDrop-frame timecode skips timecode numbers to track clock time at certain fractional frame rates; non-drop counts every number and drifts from clock time.
Sources & evidence · 10

Direct term-level sources and supporting source families.