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exporting as Quicktime Movie, self-contained or Not
I’m outputting a DV production in FCP (ver 5.1.2). I’m exporting to QT movie. In the past I’ve always checked the box that says “make movie self contained”. Another editor friend says this is not necessary. After having tried both, the difference in outputted file size with a 4 min production is 4.7 gig when made self contained but only 116 mb when not self contained.
What is the difference in quality in these 2 choices? I obviously want the best quality possible for my client.
Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.
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6 Replies
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I should have added this to my last post.
I plan on sending the exported file to Sorenson Squeeze to convert the file to a flash SWF file for web playback.
Thanks.
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There is no difference in quality. The most important difference, and the one that really counts, is that a reference file will become completely useless, albeit corrupt, if anything in the underlying timeline ever changes. If one render file changes, or anything, that ref. file is toast, and unless you title it as a reference file, there’s no indication anywhere that it’s a reference file, So, one day down the line, when you least expect it, that client will call and ask you for something related to that project, and you’ll find that reference file and try to watch it, or edit it, and it will be useless. So, since hard drive space is so inexpensive these days, simply avoid reference files so that you never wind up with a big bad surprise.
David Roth Weiss
Director/Editor
David Weiss Productions, Inc.
Los AngelesPOST-PRODUCTION WITHOUT THE USUAL INSANITY ™
A forum host of Creative COW’s Apple Final Cut Pro, Business & Marketing, Indie Film & Documentary, and Film History & Appreciations forums.
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Hi David,
Thanks for your input. Good to know.
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The way I work is: if I’m compressing immediately after I export a QT, I’ll just make a reference file.
However, if it’s something that will be kept around for a while, even a day, it’s much safer to have it as a self-contained QT.
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The way I work is: if I\’m compressing immediately after I export a QT, I\’ll just make a reference file.
However, if it\’s something that will be kept around for a while, even a day, it\’s much safer to have it as a self-contained QT.
Kai
FCP Editor / Producer with Intuitive Films
https://kai-fcp-editor.blogspot.com
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Thanks for the feedback Kai, I’ll keep it in mind.
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