Converting mp4 to a .mov

Compression Techniques

Converting mp4 to a .mov

Posted by Mark Mathews on August 28, 2013 at 4:27 pm

Hi there,

I am working on a very “bitsy” project where by I am being given a whole load of different footage to edit together. Most I have been able to convert to Apple Pro Res and edit in FCP. However, I have been given these mp4 movies and I just cannot seem to convert them!

I have tried compressor and MPEG streamclip and both have isses and won’t work for me. I really need to get this done some how, can anyone help?!!

Michael Mcintyre replied 12 years, 9 months ago 3 Members · 7 Replies
7 Replies

Craig Seeman
August 28, 2013 at 4:34 pm

Are these H.264 .mp4?
FCPX handles them natively. No conversion or re-wrapping needed. You can optional have FCPX transcode to ProRes on import. You can edit the .mp4 immediately while they transcode in the background and FCPX replaces them with the ProRes without any further user input.
Mark Mathews
August 28, 2013 at 4:37 pm

Yes they are,but I am editing in FCP7 and it doesn’t seem to like them when I bring them in to edit
Craig Seeman
August 28, 2013 at 4:44 pm

[Mark Mathews] “Yes they are,but I am editing in FCP7 and it doesn’t seem to like them when I bring them in to edit”

Consider upgrading to FCPX or getting PremierePro CS6 or subscribing to PremierePro CC.
They all should handle H.264 .mp4
FCP7 is old technology that hasn’t been updated since 2009 and was EOLd in 2011.
$300 for FCPX and $20/mo for PPro CC.

You should be able to transcode to ProRes in Compressor but given the time it takes, if you’re doing paid work or even a serious hobbyist it might be time for a new NLE.
Michael Mcintyre
August 28, 2013 at 5:29 pm

“Upgrading” to FCPX?!?!?!?!?
Uh – that’s obviously debatable. And a whole other thread in and of itself.
Sorry Craig – couldn’t resist.

Also noted the comment “if you’re doing paid work”.
All I’ve been doing is paid work for the last 20 years.
No network, major broadcast facility or motion picture studio has asked me to deliver from either FCPX or Premiere.
I’ll happily oblige whatever request they have.
In the meantime, it’s FCP7 and Avid. EOL status be damned.

Mark – try MPEG Streamclip from squared5.com. It’ll unwrap mp4 into ProRes faster than you’d think.
Mark Mathews
August 28, 2013 at 5:44 pm

Thanks to both of you for your help. I managed to get them converted in compressor in the end…Michael your FCPX sentiments I do align with, I have to say!

Thanks again!
Craig Seeman
August 28, 2013 at 5:56 pm

Which is why I mentioned Premiere Pro. It’s the FCP 8 many were waiting for.
Michael Mcintyre
August 28, 2013 at 6:27 pm

I hear ya… I just haven’t been asked by anyone to deliver from Premiere yet.

I do know several smaller shops that seem perfectly happy with PPro.

And – as if on cue, FCP has crashed twice since my snarky comment.

Crash-free for weeks and BLAMMO!

Reply to this Discussion! Login or Sign Up

Creative Communities of the World Forums