can't import .mov file generated on iphone

[Helen P in Aus]

I have just gone onto this forum with a similar problem to the one recently described.  I am trying to import movie files from an Iphone into Premiere Elements.  I have the error message "the importer reported a generic error".  I tried using Handbrake as suggested and seem to be able to import the file now but it is only the audio that is coming in.  Any ideas??

[John T Smith]

MOV is a wrapper, what is inside YOUR wrapper - Exactly what is INSIDE the video you are editing?
Report back with the codec details of your file, use the program below
Free program to get file information for PC/Mac http://mediaarea.net/en/MediaInfo/Download
- a MediaInfo tutorial https://youtu.be/Ivy9ckSX1M0
- when you analyze your file in MediaInfo and post a screen shot in the forum, do so in TREE view
- post your information IN your message, not as an attachment that someone would have to download

[Bill Sprague]

What are the video settings in the iPhone.  How are you moving the files from the iPhone to your computer?  What choices and method are you using to "import"?  Which version of Premiere elements do you have?  When using HandBrake, what are your export settings?  What computer drive are you putting the project and media on?

[Helen P in Aus]

1080p at 30 FPS

using a cable

copy and paste from phone to PC pictures directory

Premiere Elements 12

onto the H drive

Really don't know how to work Handbrake ... I might need help!

[Bill Sprague · Accepted solution]

The default in an iphone is to use a codec in the MOV file called HEVC.   It saves space.  That codec is new enough that Premiere Elements 12 won't work with it.   You can change the iphone to a setting called "most compatable" and it will use a more universal codec called H.264.   For footage you already have, it can be converted with the free program called Handbrake.   Steve Grisitti has produced a good YouTube tutorial for it here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlvxgVREX-Y

[Helen P in Aus]

OMG!! I can't tell you how grateful I am for this help!  It works!  Phew.  I am just trying to prepare a simple memorial presentation for my sister who died and I kept hitting all the snags you have described.  And now it all works.  Thanks so very much to all of you for helping me.

[Bill Sprague]

Thank you for relating that you got it working.  One of the joys of participating in this forum is making brief friendships around the globe.  

[1norcalman]

My solution: I got a new iPhone 16, transfered files and settings from the old iPhone  But all the video I shot on the iPhone 16 had the same message "the importer reported a generic error."  All the video settings were exactly the same as the previous iPhone but it still wouldn't work. After a couple of frustrating hours, I thought maybe it was the audio and not the video causing the problem.  Sure enough, under "Settings: Camera: Record Sound" it was set for "Spacial Audio." I witched it to "Stereo" (like it was on the old phone), shot a test video,  and was finally able to add the media to my project.