Proxies - Larger File Size

[GCollinsss]

Looking for an answer to why my proxy file sizes are larger than the original file? I was lead to believe that proxies are useful when wanting to collaborate with other editors who are not local to you as you can create smaller files that send in a shorter time.

I have started to work with larger amounts of video footage than usual - nearly 500GB per video. My PC is well-maintained although it's storage space has started to fill drastically even though when possible I am transferring off onto hard drives. My PC is custom-built with a strong specification.

I also wanted to use proxies because I have been struggling with a lagging Premiere Pro when working with the larger amounts of footage.

Any help I would be grateful for - thank you !

[Peru Bob]

Explanation

If the original asset has already been heavily compressed (e.g. using H.264 High profile), the proxy file size will most likely be larger than the original asset.
The H.264 encoder used to create the proxy file is configured to use a "Baseline" profile to maximize decode compatibility; the trade-off is larger filesize/bitrate to maintain the quality of the original video file. Lower compression must then be used, and the proxy file transcoder may create a larger file than the original to preserve the current quality.

from here:

https://learn.fotoware.com/On-Premises/FotoWeb/Troubleshooting_FotoWeb/Why_is_the_transcoded_video_p....

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... the original files are highly compressed. For example, MP4 or HEVC files. If you make a proxy, the files get bigger and so the data is less compressed. This makes it easier to manipulate in editing software, because the footage doesn't have to be uncompressed every time you play it, so it's less taxing for the computer and more responsive when the editor is working with it.

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from here:

https://www.reddit.com/r/VideoEditing/comments/zltpsu/can_someone_explain_proxies_to_me_like_i_was_a...

[GCollinsss]

Thank you for the response.

I don't fully understand but for more context, the footage I am trying to create proxies for is:

Movie Type: MPEG Movie

File Size: 16.

91GB

Image Size: 1080p

Frame Rate: 60

Codec: MP4/MOV H.264 4:2:0

And the proxy came back, after selecting Quicktime ProRes Medium Resolution Proxy, as...

Thank you for the response.

I don't fully understand but for more context, the footage I am trying to create proxies for is:

Movie Type: QuickTime Movie

File Size: 30.94GB

Image Size: 720p

Frame Rate: 60

If I have done something wrong then would love to find out more. Just need to generate smaller files to edit quicker and send to other editors

[Peru Bob]

If I have done something wrong then would love to find out more. Just need to generate smaller files to edit quicker and send to other editors

By @GCollinsss

Proxies are used to take compressed files and substitute uncompressed (larger) files for easier editing.

They are not intended for sharing files.

Have a look at Productions:

https://helpx.adobe.com/premiere-pro/using/production-panel.html

https://helpx.adobe.com/premiere-pro/using/storage-best-practices-productions.html

[Rynr1219]

When you proxy a video file in Adobe Premiere Pro, the goal is to create a lower-resolution version of the file to make editing more efficient. However, if the proxy file is larger instead of smaller, a few factors could be at play:

1. Codec and Compression Settings: The proxy might be using a codec or settings that result in a larger file size. For instance, if the proxy is set to use a less efficient codec or higher bit rate than the original, the file size could be larger. Make sure to check the codec settings in the "Ingest Settings" or "Create Proxies" dialog.

2. Resolution and Bitrate: Even though proxies are typically lower in resolution, the bitrate and compression settings used might cause the file size to increase. Verify that the resolution and bitrate settings for the proxy are lower than the original file.

3. File Format: Different file formats have different efficiencies in terms of file size. If the proxy is created in a format that is less efficient in compression, the file size could be larger.

4. Proxy Preset Settings: Premiere Pro offers different proxy presets. Some presets are designed to reduce file size and maintain lower resolution, but others might not be optimized for this purpose. Ensure you’re using a proxy preset that is meant for smaller file sizes, such as those designed specifically for efficient editing.

5. Metadata and Container Overhead: Some containers or file formats have more overhead or metadata than others, which could contribute to a larger file size.

To troubleshoot, try adjusting the codec, bitrate, and resolution settings in your proxy presets. For instance, you could use a codec like ProRes Proxy or a highly compressed format like H.264 with a lower bitrate to ensure the file size is reduced. If you continue to encounter issues, it might be helpful to refer to Adobe's documentation or forums for more detailed guidance on proxy settings.

https://chatgpt.com/