MXF File Mystery

Question

Level 1

4 points

MXF File Mystery

I've imported some mxf files into FCP 7. They were playing slowly and jumpy so I went into Compressor and converted them to Apple ProRes 1080i files, to match my project. Now suddenly each clip will only play 30 seconds. the MXF files in the project go black after 30 seconds and the imports are only 30 seconds long. I went back to the original files on a back up drive and when I try to open one I get the same problem. I really need a sound bite from later in one of the clips. What did I do to make my footage disappear andhow can I get it back?

I'm working on a MacBook Air (yes, I know, it's slower than a MacPro but has saved my back). Sometimes a 30 second limit comes with a trial version of software, and I recently downloaded Calibrated MXFQStat but I haven't used it yet an I don't think it's a trial version.

Thanks!

Posted on Feb 21, 2012 10:25 AM

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Answer 1

Studio X

Level 7

27,229 points

Feb 21, 2012 10:48 AM in response to Reeljen

What camera recorded these files?

Why didn't you use the Log and Transfer function to bring them into FCP7?

x

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Answer 2

Reeljen Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 21, 2012 11:58 AM in response to Studio X

When I use Log and Transfer I get this warning:

contains unsupported media or has an invalid directory structure. Please choose a folder whose directory structure matches supported media.

The files were delivered to me on a drive, so I don't know the camera used.

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Answer 3

Shane Ross

Level 8

43,110 points

Feb 21, 2012 12:38 PM in response to Reeljen

What camera was used?

Look at this workflow: http://library.creativecow.net/ross_shane/tapeless-workflow_fcp-7/1

If done properly, each card SHOULD have been backed up into individual folders that have unique names. With Log and Transfer, you choose THAT folder, don't go digging inside, or you'll get that error. If the media wasn't backed up properly...fully, then you have a problem...and the camera guy should know better.

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Answer 4

Reeljen Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 21, 2012 1:06 PM in response to Shane Ross

Thanks. I'll try that and will post with the results. (probably not until late tonight...other deadliens intrude...)

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Answer 5

Reeljen Author

Level 1

4 points

Feb 22, 2012 9:00 PM in response to Reeljen

Thanks for the link, Shane. Usefull tutorial. I was able to import the clips and they're fine. It's so simple I should have figured it out myself, but that's what I love about this discussion board. I don't have to figure stuff out becuase it's all been figured out by someone else already. 🙂 (It's days like this I miss film, though...)

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