Image sequences (EXR)
- Compression - most VFX pull specs allow lossless only: ZIP/ZIPS, PIZ or uncompressed. A DWAA render slipping through is the classic bounce. Full guide to EXR compression.
- Bit depth - 16-bit half float is the usual requirement for graded/ACES pulls; 32-bit float where the spec explicitly says so (depth/utility passes).
- Channels - RGB(A) as specified; strip debug AOVs unless asked. Some specs also constrain channel NAMES.
- Resolution and pixel aspect - exact working resolution, square pixels unless stated. Check the data window vs display window if the spec mentions overscan.
- Colour - the spec's colour space (commonly ACES or camera-linear with the show LUT delivered separately). Header metadata should agree with reality.
Frames and naming
- Numbering - the specified start frame (1001 is conventional), the specified padding (4-digit minimum), no gaps anywhere in the range.
- Handles - the cut range plus the contracted handles; short-of-handles is a re-render, so check it before upload, not after.
- Names - exactly the client's pattern, no spaces, no stray characters, one version per shot per delivery.
QuickTimes
- Codec - the exact ProRes flavour named in the spec (4444 vs 422 HQ are different deliverables - the six flavours, explained).
- Resolution and frame rate - matching the spec, with 23.976 vs 24 treated as different numbers, because ingest systems treat them so.
- Slates/burn-ins - present or absent exactly as the spec says per deliverable type.
The package itself
- Folder structure per the spec sheet; a manifest/notes file if required; checksums if required.
- One coherent version story: the submission form, the file names and the notes all citing the same versions.
Do it mechanically. Every item above is checkable from file headers and names - no pixels needed, no opinions involved. That is exactly what Shot Delivery Preflight automates: pick the spec, scan the folder, get a READY / NOT READY verdict with a fix list, in seconds.