When exporting from any NLE software (like Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, and DaVinci Resolve), we will inevitably reach the exporting stage where we are asked to choose from a list of codecs or formats. This guide will help you choose which one is the best fit based on your deliverables
The first question you must ask yourself is: what am I doing with these deliverables?
Exporting for the Web: H.264 or H.265 (HEVC) - these are compressed codecs with small file sizes, perfect for uploading to websites like Youtube or Vimeo
Watching in Quicktime: H.264 or H.265 (HEVC) - these are compressed codecs designed for easy playback with manageable file sizes
Master File (Mac): Apple ProRes - this codec is uncompressed and contains all the information of your video file, which is perfect if you want to have a master file on your hard drive available for any future use. These files are very large but you can use them in the future to encode any codec you may need.
Master File (PC): DNxHR MXF OP1a - this codec is uncompressed and contains all the information of your video file, which is perfect if you want to have a master file on your hard drive available for any future use. These files are very large but you can use them in the future to encode any codec you may need.
Blu-Ray: MPEG 2 Blu-Ray - this codec is designed specifically for burning Blu-Ray discs. It will create separate files for video and audio that you can import together in your disc burning software.
In general it is a good idea to create a Master File in addition to any other formats you choose to export in.