How to Import Video Clips to Final Cut Pro

Of course, the majority of video used in Final Cut Pro is captured from source material. Sometimes, though, clips need to be used from other sources such as downloaded web content or even archived video from the hard drive. It is not hard to bring video into a Final Cut Pro project and quickly convert it to be used. This article assumes the file is already on the computer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Choose the "Import" and "Files" options from under the File command at the top of the Final Cut Pro window.

2. Select the desired file from the standard Choose a File window. Once the desired file is located and highlighted, press the "Choose" button. It may take a few seconds or even minutes depending on the file size. If the file is on an external hard drive, it will take even longer.

3. Locate the file in the resources list for the project, it appears there just as any captured video would.

4. Manipulate the video file in the Viewer Slug window as necessary. Drag the file into the Timeline when ready. The footage needs to be rendered before it can be viewed in the Canvas.

5. Save the project. Render the Timeline so that the video can be seen. It is easiest to render both audio and video at this time even if the video imported had no audio. It may take several minutes to render the footage.

6. Save the project again. The footage can now be edited in the Timeline as if it were normally captured video.