iMovie and 2.7k 60 frames source

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Level 1

4 points

iMovie and 2.7k 60 frames source

Hey,

I run out of ideas and need your help.

I have a video recorded with GOPRO at 2.7k resolution with 60 frames. I would like to edit in in iMovie and export as 2.7k 60frames clip (so same as source). iMovie is importing the source yet the project details (and possible export res) are set to max 1080 at 60 frames.

I've tried different ways of treating source:

- direct mp4 import

- convert to .mov (2.7k 60) in gopro studio

- convert to .mov (2.7k 60) with 3rd party converters.

All that with no luck - iMovie is stuck at 1080/60.

Anyone has an idea how to make iMovie work with my source so that I could export at the same quality?

Many thanks,

Marek

iMac, macOS Sierra (10.12.6)

Posted on Aug 25, 2017 4:14 PM

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Answer 1

Rich839

Level 8

48,156 points

Aug 26, 2017 11:12 AM in response to agrezd

Hi,

Read this thread that deals with your exact problem.

Can't export 2.7k

The suggestions and comments there might be of help to you.

Essentially, iMovie does not export at 2.7K. Adjusting your source will not change that. As discussed in the above thread, what you can try is to place a 4K clip into a newly created project, as the first clip placed into the project. That will set the project as a 4K project. Then add your 2.7K clips into the project, and delete the 4K clip. When you export you should see a 4K option. Export at 4K. That should give you a 4K movie that you can then adjust to 2.7K with the free download, Handbrake. This is discussed in the above thread.

If you try the above, post back and let us know if it worked. It would be helpful to others who might have the same issue that you do.

Best,

Rich

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Answer 2

Aug 25, 2017 8:51 PM in response to agrezd

This has been reported and discussed on this forum previously. The conclusion is that iMovie does not have a 2.7k sharing option. If you must have a 2.7k file then you can share 1080 and use an external converter like MPEG Streamclip or HandBreak. Obviously this is not a good option because up scaling resolution is not a means of good quality.

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Answer 3

agrezd Author

Level 1

4 points

Aug 26, 2017 11:17 AM in response to agrezd

Hi Rich,

many thanks for pointing me at potential solution. I did like you've advised, faked res by putting 4k clip first and then 2.7k clips after. That sort of solved my problem.

Still I don't feel comfortable with how iMovie handles clips. It looks like one need to choose either high res clip or high framerate. I shoot on purpose in 2.7k since i allows me to catch 60 frames while retaining fair level of details and then play with slowing down clip a bit without loosing quality.

I guess I'll have to look for an alternative to iMovie.

Anyway - many thanks to Community for your interest and support.

Cheers,

Marek

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Answer 4

Rich839

Level 8

48,156 points

Aug 28, 2017 4:22 AM in response to agrezd

Hi, Marek,

You are welcome.

Final Cut Pro is a more advanced movie editor than iMovie, though a bit pricey. It might have the capabilities that you want, however. I believe you can download a free trial.

Filmora is a consumer film editing app that you might check out as well. I am not personally familiar with it but have seeh it referenced a few times on this forum.

Best,

Rich

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Answer 5

agrezd Author

Level 1

4 points

Aug 28, 2017 4:24 AM in response to Rich839

Hi Rich,

FCP is a bit on the pricey side given my frequency of usage but I'll give Filmora a try. Looks pretty interesting. Thanks.

Marek

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