Final Cut Pro: How To Transfer File-Based Media

Using the Log and Capture window, Final Cut Pro makes transferring file based media easy and efficient. In Final Cut Pro, transferring file-based media is very similar to the process of capturing video footage from a tape or camcorder. However, transferring file-based media is much faster than working with tape. Once you have recorded your media on a compatible camcorder, you can connect your device to the computer and then begin transferring the media. The step-by-step how-to guide will show you everything you need to know.

What You Will Need

• A computer with Final Cut Pro installed
• A camcorder that supports file-based media

Step 1: Backup Your Media

After you've shot your footage, you should back up the media onto an external storage device for safe keeping. This will allow you to have access to your original media in case you ever lose clips or need to edit the media in the future.

Step 2: Choose a Scratch Disk and Logging Bin

Once you open Final Cut Pro, you'll be prompted to choose the scratch disk you want to use. This is where your digital video files will be captured and edited and where rendered files will be stored. The logging bin will be used to capture and store clips from the footage.

Step 3: Connect Your Device

Depending on the camcorder or storage device you'll be using, you may need to connect the device to your computer using a FireWire or USB cable. See the documentation for your camcorder or storage device for more instructions.

Step 4: Import the Media into the Log and Transfer Window

After your camcorder or device is connected, open the log and transfer window in Final Cut Pro. You can do this by going to 'File' and then 'Log and Transfer'. If you have connected your camera or device correctly, and have properly set up a scratch disk and logging bin, the video should be displayed in the Viewer once you open the log and capture window.

Step 5: Choose an Output Codec or Format

If the file-based media format you are transferring in Final Cut Pro is not natively supported, you will need to choose a format to encode your media to before you can edit it with Final Cut Pro.

Step 6: Select Clips and Add Logging Information

Once you have selected clips you want to transfer from the file-based media into Final Cut Pro, you'll need to provide logging information. At a minimum, you'll need to enter information regarding the reel or tape name, shot/take information, and other information important to keep the tracks of reels of trade tapes used in the project. You should also enter information regarding angle information and shot notes.

Step 7: Transfer of the File-Based Media

Finally, you'll need to add clips you want to transfer into Final Cut Pro into the transfer queue in the logging transfer window. After you've placed the clips in the transfer queue, Final Cut Pro will process the files by creating QuickTime media files that are temporarily stored on your scratch disk. The program will then create corresponding clips associated with the QuickTime files and store them in the logging bin.