FCP Settings for HDV "Help!"

I have digitized some HD footage shot on a Cannon HV20 and I have set my Video settings accordingly,( frame size 1920 X 1080, Pix Aspect ratio is 1440 X 1080, edit timebase 29.27, compressor HDV 1080i60. However whenever I drag a clip onto my timeline I have to render it and it takes an age!
I am currently using FC 5.01
Any suggestions of how I change my settings so I don’t have to render these clips would be fantastic.
Thanks

Try using the "Easy setup" for the format you've shot. i.e. HDV 1080i for example. This setup is found in the Final Cut Pro/Easy Setup menu. Then create a new sequence to edit with. The trick is to match the clip's properties when you setup a sequence. So if you've shot HDV 1080i, then select that same sequence setting to edit with. No renders that way.
You also need to be running FCP 5.0.2 or later.
Jerry
Message was edited by: Jerry Hofmann

Similar Messages

Correct settings for HDV capture

Hi. I'm using Premiere CS5.5. I went on a few forums to get the correct settings for HDV capture.
I can record the footage fine. However I saw a few things which didn't seem right.
After capturing the HDV footage, the file was a .mpeg file. Secondly, the clip was 1 hour and 10 minutes and
it was only 11.3 GB. Does this sound right? A 55 minute .avi file is 11.6GB. I thought a HDV clip would be quite a large size file.
If this dosen't sound right, is there somewhere I could go to, to check that my settings are correct? By the way I'm filming and capturing with a Canon XHA1.
The footage is 1080i. HDV. I've exported it and it looks fine. Just want to make sure I've captured it correctly and to the best quality.
Thanks for your help.

The HDV format was advanced by Sony and others to use the same miniDV tapes used for SD. In fact, your Canon XHAI can record and play either without changing the tape transport speed.
Your observation in relative file sizes is due to the fact that HDV is highly compressed (MPEG), whereas, SD (AVI) is not as highly compressed. This is one of the reasons folks (such as Harm) don't consider HDV to be an edit format, but just a delivery format.
Note that what Harm was saying is symantics--you capture an analog source through a capture card that digitizes it. When you transfer a image file from HDV or SD, it is already digitized, so a bit-to-bit transfer occurs.

Import settings for HDV for PAL

I film on HDV tapes (1440x1080i) and I have asked both Apple store trainers and a Final Cut pro trainer and I am getting told different things for what settings to chose in easy set-up on Final Cut.
I have chosen what I believed was the right setting to then complete and burn to a Quicktime movie folder to import in DVD Studio Pro, but Studio Pro is telling me it's not compatible as it had been created for NTSC when I want PAL! I can't find where you chose between NTSC and PAL on the HD/HDV settings - can anyone help please as I can only see DV on PAL?

Hello PadProd,
If you want to stay in HD you can capture HDV natively or transcode. Since editing HDV natively is very processor intensive, I'd recommend transcoding to an i-frame format. The two options you have are ProRes or Apple Intermediate Codec.
http://www.kenstone.net/fcphomepage/capture_hdv_prores_fwbalis.html
http://www.kenstone.net/fcphomepage/when_to_staynative.html
+... but Studio Pro is telling me it's not compatible as it had been created for NTSC when I want PAL! I can't find where you chose between NTSC and PAL on the HD/HDV settings+
You'll need to change your project settings in DVDSP from NTSC to PAL (in preferences) not change the Easy Setup in FCP. Note that this setting will only affect new projects.
http://www.peachpit.com/articles/article.aspx?p=454800&seqNum=5
hope this helps
mish

Best compressor settings for HDV downconvert -- attention hanumang

Reposting this bit because it differs significantly from topic of thread where it appeared.
goal: the best possible HDV-DV downconvert using final cut studio (hitch: I have added problem of converting resulting film from PAL to NTSC)
previous method: the best luck I've had is Quicktime converting from HDV to 10-bit PAL SD and compressor converting that to NTSC DVDPRO50
Hanumang recommended using compressor for first conversion. My response:
What settings?
By coincidence I decided to try the initial conversion (HDV to 10-bit) this morning on compressor (but I didn't change the frame rate; i didn't know they were relavant for HD downconvert; I only change them for the PAL-NTSC conversion).
At first glance, the compressor 10-bit conversion doesn't seem any better than the quicktime conversion (due to the frame rate settings?). I don't know for sure because I haven't sent it back to compressor for PAL-NTSC conversion and on to DVD SP.
One issue I'm worried about is the dimensions. quicktime's 768 x 576 (preserve aspect ratio checked; letterbox selected) was the only dimension setting that produced a film that looked right (on the dvd; it's squished in final cut). I don't see that option in compressor. I suppose I could type it in the frame size boxes.
I would be most grateful for help in this matter. I've spent a few weeks on this. I just plod along, zombie-like, trying a few different things every day, hoping to hit the jackpot eventually. I've been planning on trying to downconvert using my HDV/DV deck (print to tape in HDV; then change settings to downconvert and capture as DV). Would that help?
how do pro studios handle downconverting? What kind of hardware do they use? I'm an independent filmmaker, working on a small budget, but eventually, once the film is finished and (hopefully) I have more money, I''d happily pay for a good pro conversion. Do you know what that costs? The film will be 80 minutes long.
thanks again for your help.
What compressor settings do you recommend?
The best workflow I've come up with is qucktime conversion from HDV PAL to SD 10-bit PAL, then compressor conversion from 10-bit Pal to DVDPR0 50 NTSC.
By coincidence I decided to try the initial conversion (HDV to 10-bit) this morning on compressor (but I didn't change the frame rate; i didn't know they were relavant for HD downconvert; I only been change them for the PAL-NTSC conversion).
At first glance, the compressor 10-bit conversion doesn't look better than the quicktime conversion (due to the frame rate settings?). I don't know for sure because I haven't sent it back to compressor for PAL-NTSC conversion and on to DVD SP.
One issue I'm worried about is the dimensions. quicktime's 768 x 576 (preserve aspect ratio checked; letterbox selected) was the only dimension setting that produced a film that looked right (on the dvd; it's squished in final cut). I don't see that option in compressor. I suppose I could type it in the frame size boxes.
Anyway, I would be most grateful for answers to these questions. I've spent a few weeks on this and am past the point of frustration. I just plod along, zombie-like, trying a few different things every day, dimly hoping to hit the jackpot eventually. Actually, I've been planning on trying to downconvert using my HDV/DV deck (print to tape in HDV; then change settings to downconvert and capture as DV). Would that help?
how do pro studios handle downconverting? What kind of hardware do they use? I'm an independent filmmaker, working on a small budget for the time being, but eventually, once the film is over and (hopefully) I have more money, I'll be willing to pay for a good pro conversion. Do you know what that costs? The film will be 80 minutes long.
thanks again for your help.

My bad, I was out in the afternoon and didn't get a chance to pick up on your reply to the last thread. Sorry to hear that your first attempt with Compressor was so disappointing.
Just so we're clear, you're using what exact versions of the software? FCP 5.1? Compressor 2? (For Compressor, in particular, 2.0 vs 2.1 vs 2.3 is important.) And, what are your sequence settings in FCP? Finally, we're to understand that you're actually working in PAL HDV? Or are you working in AIC?

Sequence settings for HDV 720p 24 fps

Okay, now that the French is gone I'm back on track, but still confused. I've captured my HDV 720p @ 24FPS footage using LumiereHD & it's separated & ready to go. What sequence settings/editing timebase should I use? I've noted people here saying DVCPro, but others said DVCPro is just problemic/not correct for HDV . . . and the Lumiere forum reccomends using the Apple Intermediate Codec, which I think people here said NOT to do . . . and there's a 720p24 option in Lumiere, but not in FCP . . . is it just like using 24p DV where you edit at regular 29.97? My head is turing into goo. Any sage advice, O sage ones? And I'm finishing on DVD, if that's usefull. Thank you!!!

Don't stay nervous for ever, you're missing out on a lot of good stuff.
1. Repair Permissions.
2. update to OS X 10.4.8
http://www.apple.com/support/downloads/
3. update QuickTime to 7.1.3
4. make sure you have Motion 2.1 already installed
5. update all your pro apps with Software Update
http://www.kenstone.net/fcphomepage/whats_new_5.1.2balis.html
http://discussions.apple.com/message.jspa?messageID=3213777
Still nervous?
I can't tell you what setting in FCP 5.1 to use, because I no longer have 5.1.
I would convert the HDV to DVC PRO HD 720p.
Editing in native HDV is a pain because of the frame structure.
You will end up with larger files with DVC PRO HD, but since it's all "I-frames" editing and compositing will be much, much faster.

Best import settings for HDV 1080i Video

Hello,
I just shot some HDV 1080i footage on a Sony HDR-FX1. What are the best settings for importing it into FCP 5.1.4? Just kind of lost with all of the options.
Thanks,
-Phil

Apple Intermediate Codec.
http://manuals.info.apple.com/en/FCP5HD_and_BroadcastFormats.pdf
Read chapter 1 "Working with HDV".

FCP Settings for progressive DVD Output

Hello FCP folk,
I'm working on a project that uses still photos as the only visual content, most of these are historic black and white. Wondering if I can take advantage of this and work towards a progressive scan DVD as the final out put.
Project is being edited in Final Cut 5, OS 10.4.3, playback through an ED and HD ready LCD monitor.
I'm wondering what the proper workflow should be to work towards this end. FCP settings? Output from the editing timeline options? DVDSP options ?
Any suggestions appreciated,
Thanks,
Drew

Thanks for that Ann.
I've done small samples at 720 x 25 720 x 50 1080 x 25 1080 x 50 before using Dynamic Link (which I must admit I've found very convenient and effective previously) to set up in Encore and burn without extras such as menus.
Playing back on a 37" TV we can't see a discernible difference apart from a little shimmer on horizontal lines.
I think I'll press ahead with 720 x 25 with this project which is what I've used before and am confident with but would welcome more advice on this topic.
I wonder if these settings would be even more critical should I need to output to Blue Ray
Norman

Sequence Settings for HDV footage to create SD 16 x 9 -help!

I shot HDV footage (using Sony Z1U) and want to use it as SD footage in final cut.
How do I set up a sequence to be able to create an SD sequence in 16 x 9? Which sequence settings should I choose for this?
Also, do I need to capture the footage as Anamorphic 16:9 or can I simply check the Anamporphic 16:9 box?
Thanks, Joel

HDV has a natively wide aspect ratio, and is not anamorphic (stretched) like SD widescreen.
FCP seems unable to correctly allow for the reversed field order of HDV when converting to SD with software, whether exporting QT, going direct to compressor, or nesting into SD and rendering.
Also, if you go direct to compressor from your HDV sequence, type elements and pixel layers will shift around and change aspect ratio.
I have had good luck exporting a self-contained native HDV movie and running that through compressor, though I am forced to turn frame controls off in my compressor preset, which throws out every other field and gives a pattern of progressive frames where every 5th frame is repeated. Our producer called it the "max headroom" effect.
If you know you won't need HDV output for the current planned workflow of your project, I would start by capturing SD by turning on the DV downconvert setting on your HDV deck. You'll save yourself a lot of time and headaches.
Otherwise, if you want to work in native HDV, output and HDV master of the finished sequences and recapture those as DV if you want to retain the origiinal fields in your SD output, whether to tape or to mpeg2.
When you recapture as DV, whether the original source, or a recapture of you finished master, that's the point at which you'll want to capture anamorphic.

Best FCP settings for 1920x1080 HDV footage @24fps

...shooting film on small community river with a Canon XH-A1...and want to work with cinematic style "beauty shots" So far I'm assuming that import presets in FCP should be set at AppleProRes 422(HQ)...although this taxes my processor...I will be doing simple graphics and project will be about 20 minutes in length. I'd love some opinions on what to watch for and how best to proceed from anyone who is familiar and has worked with this type of set up. Thanks a mil.

I'm trying to figure out how you are shooting film on a video camera...
(hee)

Need help with Canon Vixia HF S200 and FCP settings looks awful, help!

Shot footage on Canon Vixia HF S200 HD at PF24 looks great in camera. Used Wondershare video converter to go from .MTS file to MPEG4 file. Brought into FCP 6.0.6 now image has a lag time or slightly blocky/mosaic when people or camera moves; the sound is good. What should my sequence settings be? Did I miss a setting in Wondershare? I've never used this camera before and my boss needs me to impress our new school superintendent...help!
Andrew

Thanks Jerry, that helped alot. Read my latest post please:
...Pro Res 422 for a 4 minute project using FCP 6.0.6. It's a Mac Pro 2x3Ghz Quad with GB 800 Mhz. The project is almost done but it is freezing up during playback. Plays for 20 second then playhead freezes then jumps ahead. I've copied timeline sequence 2 times and created new sequences and that does not help. If anyone has suggestions I'm all ears, thanks.
Andrew

FCP settings for HDCAM 1080 @ 50i

Hello people,
This is my 1st (of many I'm sure) posts..
I have a bunch of tapes shot on a HDCAM 750 and 1080/50i. I've poppped them into FCP at DVCPRO50 for the rough cut.
What settings do I use witin FCP to capture the HDCAM uncompressed.. I have a Kona LHe and 3Tb of storage on a fibre channel, 8 gig RAM so we're ready to cook.. just not sure which setting to go.. I'm confused with the 50i thing.. there's not an 'easy setup' for this.. Is there?
Help me people!

Welcome to the forums.
Yes, I have the Kona LH as well and I note that there isn't an Easy Setup for 1080i50. 1080i25, but not 50. Could it be as simple as duplicating a 1080i25 setup, and changing the frame rate from 25 to 50? I dunno...that is an AWEFULLY high rate. There isn't a 1080i60 either. The highest it goes is 29.97. And when I deliver 1080 masters, they are 23.98.
I only mention the duplicating option as I see that Decklink HD codecs offer that option.
What happens if you capture at uncompressed 10-bit HD 1080i25?
Shane

Compressor settings for HDV 1080i50?

hi,
i have to export 1h30 of HDV 1080i50 to make it play on a dvd.
could you, please give me some suggestions how to make this?

ok...this is my first use of this kind of material and i don't know witch compressor settings i could use.is it possible to burn an HD DVD with my imac or i can use a SD DVD preserving a maximum quality? the answer will determinate the compressor settings i could use... for know i have tried,the last 4 days, to use H.264 so it can fit into a sd dvd (changing the average bit rate) but after more than 24h the encoding process is 1/4 of the entire video...and i've stopped it. i don't know if it's a normal to take soo much time or if i'm making a mistake doing it.so please, help

Settings For HDV to Blu-ray and DVD

What is the best strategy for avoiding unnecessary rendering and transcoding issues? I edit HDV or AVCHD (from a DataVideo DN-60) in Premiere Pro CS6. I want to output to multiple formats - DVD, Blu-ray and Flash from the same project. I'd like to maximize quality as well to fit project on disk.
I'd also like to know which format most easily transcodes for my purposes. I typically shoot 23.98 or 29.98 fps 1080p, but sometimes 1080i.
I assume Dynamic Link is the way to go, but it doesn't look like the resulting settings are automatic. For example, if I go into project settings after Dynamic Linking a PPro sequence, and choose Blu-ray, I would expect the transcode settings to match the imported project. If it does not, then what should I change the default settings to?

Let me clarify the intent of my original post. I have read in places that it is best to choose export and DVD project settings that match the original footage whenever possible to avoid rendering problems. So, if I shoot and edit HDV or AVCHD footage say at 29.98 fps progressive, then what corresponding settings should I use for DVD and Blu-ray?
I see that with 29.97 fps the progressive option is not available in the Blu-ray
presets. Should I not shoot progressive then at 29.97?
How do I maximize quality of the video while fitting on a single disk? The only way to do it automatically is to Dynamic link, which you advise against. If I manually set exports, then I must calculate all the sequence outputs from Premiere. What then should my priorities be? For starters, MPEG2 Blu-ray or H.264 Blu-ray? What should take precedence, bitrate settings or number of passes?
I am also considering render/transcode speed. How do the above settings affect speed?

Right settings for HDV and PAL editing

I will be editing a HDV piece and I want to use the Apple Intermediate codec. What are the precise settings when capturing? is the pixel aspect ratio square or PAL and do I need to set the Field Dominance to lower like with DV. Please any advice. Thanks

I just noticed that you're cutting on a PowerBook, so that totally makes sense. I'm working on an HDV project where I'm capturing in HDV then recompressing to DVCPRO HD, then doing a final output to DigiBeta. I have a Decklink card so I can convert HD to SD for output.
Cutting in DVCPRO HD is basically the same as cutting in the Apple Intermediate Codec. All the effects and playback work in real time, all the frames are complete, etc.

FCP settings for XL2 16:9 30p

Hi,
I'm shooting with an XL2 in 16:9, 30p mode. What Sequence settings should I have FCP set to?
I know I can just match sequence to clip settings but I'd rather have the native settings be for what I am shooting in.
Thanks!
OS 10.6.6, FCP 7.0.3
Message was edited by: eloch

The XL2 is a DV cam which records 29.97 interlaced to tape. It is not a progressive cam. It probably uses field duplication to imitate "progressive" but at the level of what is being recorded - it's standard ol' interlaced DV.
Start with the Easy Preset for DV/NTSC 16:9 anamorphic 48 khz (assuming you didn't set the audio to 32khz). You'll want to set the firewire control protocol to Firewire BASIC before you start capturing.
Also, if you are capturing to a laptop or iMac with an external firewire drive and are having issues, do a search here for "canon firewire incompatibility". Tons of fun reading/
Good luck.
x

FCP Settings for HDV "Help!"

Similar Messages

Maybe you are looking for