Converting Final Cut to Quicktime

What's the best way to convert a Final Cut project to a Quicktime movie. I want to use H.264. The current Final Cut project file size is about 3 GB. I want to create a quicktime that is 640X360 and is about 190 to 200 mgb. The conversion in Final Cut Pro HD is too trial and error. How does apple convert TV shows like Lost to Quicktime movies? What's the process?

Good questions. How does Apple convert a TV show to QuickTime .m4v format?
Answer: There is no "standard" way to do it. Each video is different and could be best served by studying the individual file. Some, with lots of motion may require extra work. Talking "head" movies may only require tweaking some settings.
First rule:
Anyone that uses "canned presets" doesn't care about either the quality or the file size of the final distributed format.
Second rule:
They are "your" files and you can do them any way you like!
Third rule:
Update until your budget breaks! If this means getting a faster machine or a newer OS, as the Nike ad says; "Just do it!"
I suggest a simple series of "test" files. Export (to various settings) a one minute file. You'll end up with a few dozen example files that you can refer to (name them according to the settings used).
Save these files and use the QuickTime Get Info window to compare codecs, frame and data rates, keyframes and other settings. You only need to do this on a few different video files. Separate "fast action" from "talking heads" and store them for future reference.
You'll end up with a series of small files that you can then use to compare various settings.
You can do this! And, it's important! It's your "stuff".

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    Message was edited by: JayEnder

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    [Click on this text.|http://www.digitalrebellion.net/blog/posts/recommendedquicktime_and_mac_os_configurations_for_final_cutpro.html]

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