I need to convert .mts files to a format that will be recognized by Final Cut Express 3.5.1 so I can edit the films.
If this is not possible, what software for the mac should I look at that will allow me to edit .mts files, or what software do I need to purchase to convert the files to a format that can be edited.
I can import the .mts files into Imovie, but am unsure how to convert them to a format recognized by Final Cut.
Comrade Darkness
If you can import them into iMovie, then you should be able to convert them using Quicktime pro (which is the normal quicktime where you pay to have the save as and export functions unlocked).
This is solely based on your comment that you can import into imovie. Never worked with mts, but I’ve had a similar issue with other formats.
charlied
If you can convert them into Imovie, then you should be able to save them in that format and then import them into FCE. My only caveat is that they have recently updated Imovie so I am not sure if FCE 3.5.1 is going to recognize the new file format.
Crashman06
I believe Handbrake (free, and open source) will allow you to convert the files to m4v or avi. You may also need VLC movie player installed at the same time, but that’s also free and open source. More here.
Manual
Use the log and transfer option under the file menu in Final Cut.
techno
When you import an mts file into iMovie, it converts the footage into something called Apple Intermediate Codec. When you import the same footage into Final Cut Pro, it is transcoded into something called ProRes422.
Why the Apple video apps cannot handle mts files natively I do not know. I’ll bet it has something to do with intellectual property.
Both codecs edit wonderfully. The big problem is what to do with them when you are done.
techno
When you import an mts file into iMovie, it converts the footage into something called Apple Intermediate Codec. When you import the same footage into Final Cut Pro, it is transcoded into something called ProRes422.
Why the Apple video apps cannot handle mts files natively I do not know. I’ll bet it has something to do with intellectual property.
Both codecs edit wonderfully. The big problem is what to do with them when you are done.
TheFountainHead
I’m going to second Handbrake. It’s free and it will convert just about any movie format into whatever you’d like.
dmsilev
Poking around in iMovie ’08 for a bit, it seems to be able to export in QuickTime, MPEG-4, and a few other formats. Final Cut should be able to parse those without too much trouble.
-dms
Sarcastro
FCP should open the file as Manual detailed.
If still no joy Roxio Toast or VoltaicHD will convert the file.
If you’re a cheap bastard (like me) here’s a free software walkthrough:
fsckin.com/2008/01/03/transcoding-mtsm2ts-avchd-video-files-with-free-software/
Linux specific but works in OS X too.
Martin
Handbrake. Free, easy, fast. If you are willing to touch the command line, you can batch convert using the cli version.
John Cole
I have handbrake, and you are right, importing into Imovie makes it readable in FC. Now I need to figure out how to edit in Final Cut. Thing is kicking my ass.
Martin
Oh, and get Perian if you haven’t already. It often times makes a lot of these kinds of problems just go away. And it’s also free…
Ajay
If handbrake works, use it. I use Sony Vegas to convert it to whatever format I want. In addition, just to play it, I use VLC player(free).
wasabi gasp
There’s a free and versatile program called MPEG Streamclip which is capable of a wide variety of media format conversions. I’ve never had the need to use it for converting a MTS file, but I believe it’s one of the supported input formats.
bellatrys
There are a lot of vidding coms out there which should be able to help – I don’t know how to edit video myself, but it’s an increasingly popular fandom activity with its own convention (Vividcon) now.
Jim C
. Now I need to figure out how to edit in Final Cut. Thing is kicking my ass.
If you’re going to be using FCE with any regularity, I recommend the Visual Quickstart Guide to give you a solid grasp of the mechanics.
In the meantime, the User Manual is helpful, though it isn’t concise.
What part of editing in FCE is troubling you? Setting in and out points?
Cameron
Upgrading to Final Cut Express 4 brings the ability to import *.mts files (AVCHD) directly. It also can import iMovie projects.
John Cole
I have a video I shot of someone giving a talk. There are multiple portions I need to edit out, so I need to cut stuff out and then stitch it back together somewhat seemlessly. For the life of me, I can not figure out how to do it.
Also, this was shot in HD, and there is a lot of dead space I need to cut out on the edges. Is there anyway to crop?
Jim C
Editing out portions is pretty easy, once you get the hang of it.
If these portions are all included in a single clip, you can create “subclips” of the material you want to use. Import your clips to the browser, and then edit a clip. When you find the starting point of the portion you want to use, mark an “In” point (the i key). When you reach the end of that usable portion, mark an “out” point (the o key). If you want to keep editing that whole clip, use those in and out points to create a subclip (Apple-U). Then continue on in your clip, finding the parts you want to use, re-setting the in and out points. Repeat with all clips.
(Note: If you want to use a cross-dissolve transition between your subclips, you need to give subclips some extra frames on each end of the subclip. The program will use those buffer clips to create the transition – at least 15 frames, possibly more.)
As to cropping the image, there is a “Crop” tool, which is found on the “Tool Palette” which has the pointer tool, the razor blade, the roll/slip/slide editors, etc. Or at least, that’s where it is in FCE 4.
charlied
If you are using editing a long clip that needs to have sections removed, you can use the razor tool to cut the clip into segments and then delete the segments you don’t want. Another way is to import each segment you want to use individually. to do that in high def you would have to hit the record now button when you came to the section you want to import. This has the advantage of keeping the hard drive clear of unused clips.
To change the composition of the image you will need to go to the view menu and select image plus wireframe, then select the clip you would like to change. You will see a box with “handles” that will allow you to enlarge the image. then you can drag it around until you are happy with the composition. Use the dissolve from the effects menu to create transitions between the edited clips.
Jerry
These sites may help:
users.design.ucla.edu/~jbishop/FCP/FCPtutor.htm#Editing
library.creativecow.net/tutorials/applefinalcutpro
lafcpug.org/tutorials.html
Maude
Thanks for this info. Next week I am starting to set up video editing for the non-profit that hosts mainly teens. I will use imovie and ubuntu with VLC. There are two cameras and they will be able to edit their footage.
Film, I understand. Video, not used to it yet.
arguingwithsignposts
Log and Capture should convert the .mts files, iirc, in FCE.
The Pale Scot
Imovie Export> Expert Settings> video to QTMovie=.H264 quality > high will make a very large file but will be completely compatible with FCP.
But Jim.C has the right moves if it’s functioning properly.
Beauzeaux
Second nod for MPEG Streamclip. Handbrake is very good, but MPEG Streamclip (also free) is so awesome I could just plotz.
srv
Maybe you can help Buffett with his voicemail too:
curiouscapitalist.blogs.time.com/2009/09/15/warren-buffett-might-have-saved-lehman-if-he-knew-how-to…