What is export?
In video production, exporting is the process of converting your finished project into a video file that can be downloaded or shared.
During export, the editing software you’re using applies all the cuts, effects, transitions, audio adjustments, and layers you've made while editing and combines them into a single video file in your chosen format.
This process lets you control settings like resolution, bitrate, file format, and codec, so the final video’s quality meets your standards and is compatible for playback on various devices or platforms.
What you need to know about export settings:
- Choose the right format like MP4, MOV, or AVI. MP4 is the most versatile and widely compatible, while MOV offers higher quality but larger file sizes.
- Most editing software has preset export settings optimized for platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or social media.
- Exporting can be time-consuming, especially for high-resolution or complex projects. Make sure your computer can handle the process without interruptions.
Why is my video not getting exported?
Your video might not export if you have insufficient storage space, experience software glitches during the process, have selected incorrect export settings, or are working with an outdated version of your editing software. Check your computer’s storage, restart the software, and double-check your export settings to resolve the issue.
What makes exporting videos faster?
Exporting videos is faster when using a computer with a powerful central processing unit (CPU), a dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU), plenty of random access memory (RAM), and a solid-state drive (SSD) for storage. Also, using hardware acceleration and lowering the resolution or bitrate can speed up export times.
What is the difference between exporting and saving a video?
Saving a video retains the project file in an editable format, keeping all layers, effects, and settings intact. Exporting converts the project into a single, playable video file (e.g., MP4), ready for sharing or playback.
How do I export a video without losing quality?
To export without losing quality, select a high-quality codec (e.g., H.264, ProRes), use a high bitrate, maintain the original resolution, and choose a lossless format if available.
How long does it take for a video to be exported?
Export time varies based on video length, resolution, complexity of edits, and computer specs. A short, simple video might take minutes, while a longer, complex project could take hours.
What resolution should I export the video?
Export in 1080p (Full HD) for most purposes, as it offers great quality and compatibility. For higher quality or larger screens, use 4K (2160p), and for smaller formats like social media, 720p might be sufficient.
How to export a video on Riverside
If you’re happy with your edits on Riverside, you need to download all tracks, click Export all -> Download all tracks (ZIP), and it’ll kick off the export process.
If you need to use external editing software, here’s how to export a recording from Riverside:
- Access your Riverside account.
- From the ☰ menu, click on the relevant studio.
- Click on the project you wish to export.
- Under the Recordings section, select the recording you want.
- On the recording’s page, scroll to the Recording files section.
- Click on the Export All button next to Recording files.
- Select the format for your editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.
- Choose the audio or video tracks you wish to export.
- Click Export Now. Riverside will generate a ZIP file containing the timeline package.
- Once ready, Riverside will notify you by email. You can then download and import the ZIP file into your editing software.
The link to download your exported file expires after seven days, so be sure to download it promptly. You can repeat the steps if the link expires or need additional tracks.
How to export only audio (as MP3) on Riverside
- Log in to Riverside and open the platform in your browser.
- Locate the recording you want to export from your Dashboard.
- Click on the recording thumbnail to open the recording page.
- Choose the "Export Audio-Only" option on the recording page.
- Alternatively, open the recording in the Editor if you want to make adjustments before exporting.
- Once in the Editor, select the option to export as Audio.
- Choose MP3 as the format in the export options.
- Confirm the export, and after it's processed, download the MP3 file.
If more than 7 days have passed since exporting, repeat these steps to export the file again.
