How to import/export 4k (Canon 1DX Mark II) to FCPX

[Average Pro]

I recently began capturing video with a Canon 1DX Mark II. 4k clips vary between 60 to 120fps. I discovered that FCPX does not recognize 4k files. By this I mean that the largest format option for export is 1920 X 1080. I conducted a quick search and it appears this is a known issue. All of the articles are dated 2017 and older.

Where I need help from the community is a solution to get a file exported from FCPX as 4k. At this point, I don't know if FCPX recognizes a 4k file when imported. Searching for solutions revealed an inundation of recommended "free" plugins to covert the file. Ideally, I would prefer to avoid any plugins.

Thank you for your time.
2013 Mac Pro
Catalina 10.15.7
FCPX 10.4.10

 

[Average Pro]

OK. Not 30 seconds after posting this, I discovered Compressor. This looks like what I need.
However, if there is a way to export 4k without a plugin, I'd be interested in hearing about it.

 

[Ritsuka]

That' untrue. Final Cut X can export even 8k. Create a 4k or more timeline, and go to Share -> Master File.

 

[Average Pro]

I did utilize the Share -> Master File. The highest resolution available is 1920 X 1080.
The camera is set to record 4k 29.97P MJPG as a MOV file.

 

[Ritsuka]

What are the project settings? And the camera file settings? Open a file in QuickTime Player and check the info window.

 

[Average Pro]

The camera is set to record 4k 29.97P MJPG as a MOV file.
See attached for QT info.

 

[Ritsuka]

And the project settings in Final Cut?

 

[Average Pro]

As mentioned above, no matter what I pick under Share -> Master File, I cannot change the resolution to larger than 1920 X 1080.
If this does not answer your question, please elaborate and direct me to where I can provide info on "project settings in Final Cut".

 

[Ritsuka]

Modify a project’s settings in Final Cut Pro for Mac

In Final Cut Pro for Mac, change a project’s video and audio settings.

support.apple.com

Final Cut Pro project settings

In Final Cut Pro, use the Project Properties inspector to change a project’s name, starting timecode, and video, audio, and rendering settings.

support.apple.com

 

[Average Pro]

Ah, thank you. However, the second link does not provide instructions on how to get those options to pop up. Can you please provide step-by-step instructions?

As for the first link, see attached for further proof of 4k.

 

[Ritsuka]

That's weird. In the export -> master file sheet, which video format did you select? Try with ProRes.

 

[Average Pro]

There is no "export" I am using the Share -> Master File and this is what I see. See attached image.

 

[Average Pro]

I went to the Master File Default and the video is now 4096 X 2160. See attached. However, the moment I tried to export it, it went back to 1920 X 1080. I even tried to change the resolution by selecting "Apple Device" but there was no option for higher resolution.

After I exited this screen, I no longer get this resolution value. When I go to the Master File Default, it now shows up as 1920 X 1080. So confusing.

 

[Matt James Smith]

Ah, thank you. However, the second link does not provide instructions on how to get those options to pop up. Can you please provide step-by-step instructions?

As for the first link, see attached for further proof of 4k.

View attachment 976241

This could be clip info, not project info. Select the project thumbnail (the one you click to open the project) in the browser and look in the same place - does it still say 4K? To me it sounds like you're working with 4K footage on a 1080p timeline. That won't let you export 4K. You should be able to modify project settings from the info window when the project is selected. If not, the easiest thing would be to create a new project and make sure the project settings are set to 4K as you create it, then copy and paste the timeline from your old project.

 

[Average Pro]

OK. It appears I needed to select 4k when importing the file (project). Why is FCPX reducing the resolution? How do I set up FCPX to that it will automatically maintain the original video resolution?

 

[Matt James Smith]

You’re welcome. FCPX isn’t reducing anything, you select the resolution you want the project to be. There’s a box you can tick when you create the project that will set it to the size of the first clip you drop on the timeline.

 

[Average Pro]

You’re welcome. FCPX isn’t reducing anything, you select the resolution you want the project to be. There’s a box you can tick when you create the project that will set it to the size of the first clip you drop on the timeline.

Ha! I just learned that on an FCPX video. Now the learning continues.