FINAL CUT PRO - capturing from VHS/DVD

Tech tip: If you are having one of the 'it's worked before, why isn't it working now?!" final cut pro days, always try to reboot (restart) the computer to see if that will solve your problem. The editing machines are configured to revert back to optimal settings upon reboot.

The process of capturing from VHS or DVD sources involves tricking FCP into capturing from the miniDV deck's analog input. Follow the steps listed below:

• Set Input Selector on the miniDV deck to VIDEO
• Open the Log and Capture window in Final Cut Pro and click on the Capture Settings tab.
• Under Device Control select NON CONTROLLABLE DEVICE.
• To open the capture window, click on File -> Log and Capture...
• Play the vhs tape or dvd (you have to use the vcr to do that)
• You can immediately begin capturing a video clip by starting to play the clip at the point where you want to start capturing it, and then clicking on the button labeled Capture...Now That will begin capturing the clip from that point.
• To stop capturing, on the upper left of your keyboard press the escape key

You'll notice the clip will then appear as a file in your Browser area to the left. You can continue this process to capture other clips, by just moving through the tape to the next point that you want to capture, playing the tape and then again clicking on Caputure...Now and then the escape key.

Note: It's good practice to only capture those segments of the video that you think you might use in your video project.

Saving your projects

Always save your project before starting to capture and edit.

For GH317 users: you must save your project on the SCRATCH drive. The filename must contain your name and the date when the project can be safely deleted. All other project files will be deleted!

Back to Top

Related information:

Capturing from miniDV