What are the very important files to keep after a documentary video edit? MOV MP4 or what else?

Introduction

When completing a documentary video edit, it’s crucial to have the right deliverables for future use, distribution, and archival. Here’s a breakdown of the essential files you should keep after an edit.

1. Screening Copy

A high bit rate MP4 file, encoded with either H.264 or H.265 codec, should be created with the highest resolution and audio quality. It is beneficial to have:

One Version with Burned-in Subtitles: This file can be used for TV screenings, projectors, or uploading on platforms like YouTube and social media.
Another Version with External Subtitles (SRT file): This allows for greater flexibility in language options for international screenings.

2. Master Copy

The master file should be a high-quality version for professional use. Options include:

DPX Image Sequence or QuickTime File: Using ProRes 422 HQ or ProRes 4444 XQ video codecs with maximum resolution and uncompressed audio.
External SRT for Subtitles: Ideal for creating different language versions as needed in the future.

It’s a good practice to export a version without any on-screen text, allowing for the addition of subtitles in different languages later on.

3. Uncompressed Audio

An uncompressed audio file in WAV format should be created, which includes:

All Sound Elements Except Dialogues and Narration: Avoid using ducking techniques, which lower music levels when dialogues occur, to preserve the original audio for future edits.

4. Sync Licenses and Contracts

Ensure you have licenses for any third-party assets used in the project. This includes:

Music, Stock Footage, or Artist Licenses: When submitting the project to OTT platforms, you may need to provide these licenses.

5. Project Backup

Maintaining a backup of the entire project file and all utilized assets is critical.

Using Project Management Tools: Tools in software like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve can simplify the process of project backups.
Edit Decision List (EDL): Keep an EDL that contains clip names, in/out points, and timeline locations. This is valuable for migrating to different editing software in the future.

Conclusion

Given the rapidly evolving nature of technology, maintaining high-quality and well-organized deliverables is more important than ever. It ensures that your project remains accessible and editable regardless of changing platforms.

Keywords

Screening Copy
Master Copy
MP4
WAV Format
Sync Licenses
EDL
High Bit Rate

FAQ

Q: What is a screening copy?
A: A screening copy is a high-quality video file designed for viewing, often with options for burned-in subtitles or external subtitle files.

Q: What type of codec should I use for the screening copy?
A: The recommended codecs for a screening copy are H.264 or H.265.

Q: What is a master copy?
A: A master copy refers to the high-quality, professional version of your video, typically in a DPX image sequence or a QuickTime file with high-resolution audio.

Q: Why is uncompressed audio important?
A: Uncompressed audio preserves the entire soundscape without dialogue overlap and is necessary for future edits or translations.

Q: Why do I need licenses for third-party assets?
A: Licenses ensure that you have permission to use copyrighted materials in your project, which may be required for submission on various platforms.

Q: What is an EDL?
A: An EDL, or Edit Decision List, is a document that lists the clips used in the project along with their in and out points and timeline information, useful for editing in different software.