merrick4393

Q: Am I using the wrong codec? File size is too large!!

Hi everyone,

 

I recently switched to FCP from iMovie and noticed that my exported file sizes are significantly larger in FCP. All other elements (both videos are 1080p, both have color profiles of 1-1-1, both have 2 audio channels) are the same. For example, a 1080p video from iMovie which is 9:52 mins long is 1.52 GB and a 1080p video from FXP which is 4:28 mins long is 4.57 GB.

 

The only difference I notice is with the codec. It says:

 

iMovie: "H.264, AAC"
FCP: "Apple ProRes 422, Linear PCM, Timecode"

 

I would like a smaller file size while having the video be 1080p. Do I need to switch codecs in FCP to H.264 and ACC? Do I pick one or both? How do I switch codecs? What is the tradeoff by switching to the iMovie codecs (ex. decrease in quality? But quality should remain constant since both videos are 1080p)?

 

Thanks so much everyone!

MacBook Pro, OS X Yosemite (10.10.3)

Posted on Sep 12, 2015 4:39 PM

Close

Q: Am I using the wrong codec? File size is too large!!

  • All replies
  • Helpful answers

  • by Alchroma,

    Alchroma Alchroma Sep 12, 2015 4:53 PM in response to merrick4393
    Level 6 (18,976 points)
    Video
    Sep 12, 2015 4:53 PM in response to merrick4393

    This is the Share >Master File choice. ProRes 422 is the default.

    Select H.264 in  the Video Codecs to see if that meets your needs.

     

    Screen Shot 2015-09-13 at 9.45.21 am.png

     

    Also try the Share to Apple Devices export choices to make even smaller files.

     

    A rule of thumb is: as files sizes drop so does quality. You have to find the "sweet spot".

    Most of the decision making is based on where the destination audience lies.

     

    Al