Set render queue to overwrite files automatically?

[Dave Johnson]

I’m sure someone more knowledgeable will correct me if I’m wrong, but I’m pretty sure there’s no way to do that … it sure sounds like a good candidate for a feature request though.

I believe the only methods are moving or deleting the existing files, or selecting “comp name” in the render queue where it lest you choose file name, but when there is already a file of the same name, that generates a confirmation popup along the lines of “this will overwrite an existing file existing file, are you sure you want to do that”?

[Jason Brown]

That’s my same experience…I routinely overwrite files…intentionally. I’d love to be able to change it.

-Jason

[John Hudson]

Although I do agree it is a good idea to give an new file name you can do this.

Just select the comp in the render queue from the last time you rendered and hit command/shift/D (This is the keyboard selections for Mac. Probably Alt/Shift/D on a PC). This will duplicate the render, the settings and the name you used. Caution… It will not ask you to if you want to overwrite once you hit render.

[Jason Brown]

Perfect John!

While not the same as a default setting…it does exactly what I want to do.

Thanks so much!

-Jason

[Dave Johnson]

Hmmm … I duplicate renders in the queue all the time and didn’t even realize it circumvents the overwrite warning … maybe I’m so in the habit of double checking render file names, locations, etc. that I guess I confirm that it’s pointing to the file I want overwritten and click through the confirmation window without being fully conscious of it. Hmmm again … an only partially conscious animator … unheard of, I know!

By the way, the Windows shortcut is just CNTRL D.

[Jason Brown]

Hey Dave,

If you read John’s post…it’s not just cmd+D or ctl+D on windows…add in the shift key, it changes the result. Simply cmd+d will duplicate, but append a _1 to the end. Shift+cmd+D will result in an overwrite. Interesting information. Good job John!

-Jason

[Jason Brown]

I agree…my comment was directed @ Dave Johnson btw…

[Dave Johnson]

Ahhh, yes, you’re right that I didn’t read it carefully enough and thank you for pointing that out … it is very good info so I’m glad I got it on the second try.

[Touko Maksimainen]

Whoa! This is the most useful bit of information all day. I spend A LOT of time getting rid of those pesky “_1″‘s. This is going to make my life a lot easier!

I think it’s should be fine to overwrite stuff by default (Photoshop also has a frustrating habit of appending _copy at the ends of filenames). Simple “Are you sure?” question should be sufficient.

It’s my responsibility to keep my files in order and not have my software babysit me on that, especially when there is no option to turning it off.

[Jason Brown]

Since we discussed this…I use it ALL the time…