intentional downscaling to create a "blocky" digital feel.

To simulate a bad DV tape connection, use the geq (general equation) filter for random digital blocks, or simply stack the noise filter heavily.

FFmpeg can simulate all of this, no After Effects required.

Since FFMPeg is a command-line tool, we will build a "filter chain" to destroy your high-quality footage and make it look like it was shot on a Sony Handycam in 1999.

Old cameras recorded interlaced fields (odd and even lines), not progressive frames. This creates the jagged "comb" effect on moving objects.

ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -filter_complex "[0]split=3[r][g][b]; [b]chromashift=cr=2:cb=-2[b2]; [r]chromashift=cr=-2:cb=2[r2]; [g]null[g2]; [r2][g2][b2]blend=all_mode=addition" y2k_glitch.mp4

The Y2K FFmpeg bug was a critical issue in the FFmpeg codebase, caused by a 2-digit year representation in a date parsing function. The bug could have led to errors and crashes in FFmpeg instances, potentially disrupting media processing and streaming services. A swift response from the FFmpeg community led to a patch, preventing potential disasters.

ffmpeg -i input.mp4 -vf "scale=320:240:flags=neighbor, scale=1920:1080:flags=neighbor" -r 15 -c:v libx264 y2k_pixel.mp4

Early digital sensors were noisy, especially in low light.