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robbyjm
Known Participant
June 4, 2021
Answered

What is the correct format and codec for proxy files?

  • June 4, 2021
  • 1 reply
  • 2942 views

I'm trying to create a proxy file to speed up my workflow in after effects. For example, here is a sample file that I would like to create a proxy file for.

resolution: 2560x1440

duration: 17minutes

bitrate: ~ 100,000 kb/s

container: mp4

codec: h264

framerate: 60fps

size: 11.6GB

additional ffprobe information.

Input #0, mov,mp4,m4a,3gp,3g2,mj2, from 'test.mp4':
  Metadata:
    major_brand     : isom
    minor_version   : 512
    compatible_brands: isomiso2avc1mp41
    encoder         : Lavf58.65.101
  Duration: 00:17:29.48, start: 0.000000, bitrate: 94971 kb/s
    Stream #0:0(und): Video: h264 (High) (avc1 / 0x31637661), yuv420p(tv, bt709), 2560x1440 [SAR 1:1 DAR 16:9], 94969 kb/s, 60 fps, 60 tbr, 16k tbn, 120 tbc (default)

 

Which format and codec should I select in the output module for my proxy settings. I've tried various incorrrect combinations which have either resulted in the proxy itself being larger than the origional file or the proxy taking an abnormal amount of time to render.

 

System Information: Win 10

    This topic has been closed for replies.
    Correct answer Roland Kahlenberg

    17 minutes is quite a long clip to use entirely in AE. You may be better off trimming the clip in PPro, to just the points you require. Then use DL or a copy from PPro and then a paste into an AE timeline. For proxies, 1/4 to 1/8 of the original pixel resolution/dimension will be a good target. MP4 is fine and a Constant Bitrate of 10Mbps will be OK. HTH

    1 reply

    Roland Kahlenberg
    Roland KahlenbergCorrect answer
    Legend
    June 4, 2021

    17 minutes is quite a long clip to use entirely in AE. You may be better off trimming the clip in PPro, to just the points you require. Then use DL or a copy from PPro and then a paste into an AE timeline. For proxies, 1/4 to 1/8 of the original pixel resolution/dimension will be a good target. MP4 is fine and a Constant Bitrate of 10Mbps will be OK. HTH

    Very Advanced After Effects Training | Adaptive & Responsive Toolkits | Intelligent Design Assets (IDAs) | MoGraph Design System DEV
    R
    robbyjmAuthor
    Known Participant
    June 4, 2021

    Okay, I will do this. Any idea why Mp4 doesn't show up as a format when trying to make the proxy in AE? It's not really a problem, as I can use AME to make the proxy. Just wondering.

    Roland Kahlenberg
    Roland Kahlenberg
    Legend
    June 4, 2021

    Direct MP4 output from AE was removed a long while back because exporting an MP4 from AE was not an efficient method and AME being provided along with AE, was the preferred option. HTH

    Very Advanced After Effects Training | Adaptive & Responsive Toolkits | Intelligent Design Assets (IDAs) | MoGraph Design System DEV
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