Learning how to save in Final Cut Pro is a cinch! In this short tutorial, you’ll learn about the autosaving feature and how to back up a library database. These are the best ways to keep all your hard work safe and sound!
Summary
Save Your Work Using Final Cut Pro
1. Automatic Saving Feature
Does Final Cut Pro automatically save? You bet! While your project file is open, FCPX will save in timed intervals—ensuring that you never lose your work. You can undo any saved adjustments by simply using the keyboard shortcut Command + Z or redo by hitting Shift + Command + Z.
You can rest easy knowing that all projects are up-to-date with your latest edits. You can see projects and its name on the left-hand side of your Final Cut Pro software, too. You can rename the project by double-clicking on the name.
2. Library Backups in Final Cut Pro
Backing your library up is crucial in ensuring the organization and safety of your work. Your library will back up on its own with each new project created and every adjustment made.
Before all else, it’s highly recommended that you make sure you have enough space to contain a backup of your library. External hard drives are recommended for larger library sizes and to avoid slowing the performance of your own system.
You can see the library by accessing the File > Library Properties (^ + Command + J is the keyboard shortcut). You will then see a new panel on the right of your software. Clicking Modify Settings will allow you to change where your backup is located. You can also choose to keep the cache and any Motion content in your Final Cut Pro library or elsewhere.
You also have the option of accessing older Final Cut Pro libraries. If you want to restore a library that has been previously saved, you can do that. Simply go to Open Library > From Backup… > Restore from, and if the library is not available in that tab under the most recently opened panels, select it from your computer. You can use Command + O as a shortcut to pull your older versions.
You can also always duplicate your library (often found in the Movies folder) as a backup to double the files with copy/paste (Command + C and Command + V). Depending on the size of your library, this may be a slow process. You might just have to wait a bit! But the effect will be the same, nonetheless, and you will have a new backup of your Final Cut Pro library.
3. Saving Your Video File
When you are ready to save or share your work as a video, click File > Share > Master File (default) or press Command + E. After choosing your preferred export options, hit Next, and your file will begin downloading. We’ve got a full tutorial on how to share your videos if you want some more details on the best settings.
As you’ve learned, saving a video project in Final Cut Pro is a painless process. This is especially clear when realizing that the NLE does most of the saving for you. Edit your videos with ease, knowing your workspace and projects are also all backed up and secure!
