Is it possible to compress a feature length movie project on FCP down to a 500MB file size for upload? I've tried Compressor but even the smallest options can't get me below 1.7 GB.
iMac 27″ 5K, macOS 12.2
Here's some good info on modifying settings: Create custom settings in Compressor - Apple Support
What I do is find a preset that's close to what I want, right-click it and choose Duplicate. It will create a copy in the Custom list. Select the copy, rename it to something that makes sense to you, and make the changes you'd like.
Thank you @terryb. I'm looking through these items and have also posted in a Compressor group. I'm so inexperienced I can't even seem to navigate to the area where I can change QuickTime settings in Compressor-beyond their basic "Add" drop down menu.
When I click on that pop up Add menu, and attempt to create a custom setting, I don't even see an option for "New Setting" as it says on that instructions link. I see an option for "Custom" - but when I hit the toggle arrow it only lists "MXF" as an option and nothing else. Feels like a dead-end, but I presume I'm missing a step somewhere. Any idea where?
Thank you for this very much - However, I'm on a Mac and can't seem to find right keystrokes to mimic a right-click. All the usual key shortcuts are not producing that duplication pop up menu. Any ideas, per chance? Apologies for the never-ending questions.
I found my way to duplicate and change a setting. If Im going with a 428x240 frame size, what Data Rate do you suggest - to get the project down to that 500MB but to allow for the thing to still be seen and heard in a way somewhat somewhat reminiscent of the original project? The default data rate for my project was 1411 kbps. Thanks in advance!
I fooled around with the settings in the Inspector and was able to formulate the frame size and data rate to get the project down under 500MB. Apologies for the play-by-play. Thanks for your prompt help earlier and good luck on your work.
Disregard this last reply. I saw where I was making my error and found a way to duplicate. Will see what happens. Thank you!
Compression is always a tradeoff between file size, image quality and playback compatibility. You should be able to modify a built-in Compressor setting to lower the data rate so the final file size is small, but depending on the type of footage (high action versus talking heads) the resulting quality might not be great. If your project is 4k you could reduce the output to HD frame size. Experiment with sections of your project to see what will work best.
Formats and settings in Compressor - Apple Support
QuickTime Movie settings in Compressor - Apple Support
You could also ask for tips in the Compressor forum.
Handbrake is a free option that many here like.
Compressing a FCP file to 500MB
