iMovie features I'd like to see in Final Cut Pro X

Hi all,

Just wanted to share some thoughts about the iMovie features for FCPX by Thomas.


1. Deeper Paste Attributes Shortcuts

This is a welcome feature as long as we don't loose the Paste Attributes window. It seems like in iMovie, Paste Attributes is a submenu, not a command like in FCPX. Are both things compatible? If they are, then, yes, I would love this feature. If they are not and we have to choose one or the other, I would stick to the Paste Attributes window which allows us to paste several attributes at once, and select all kind of effects and filters (that couldn't possibly have shortcuts assigned).

2. A usable Sound FX Library with skimmable waveforms

Check out the last MacBreak Studio episode. There is a great workaround/solution that fixes this issue. A great trick that I didn't realize could be done so easily. It also helps to media manage the built-in sound fx, in case you need to send your cut to a sound mixer.



Nevertheless, having skiable filmstrips in the media browsers would be great too, not only for Sound Browser but for the Photo Browser as well, like merc suggested.

3. A region for non-connected audio

I think this is cool and fills the need that many editors have in FCPX: the ability to lock specific clips in time. But I think it would be conflictive with the idea of Roles regions in the timeline that has been discussed lately, which I think is more useful.

Another way to achieve this would be the ability to disconnect a connected clip or storyline. Once disconnected, they would act as if they were connected to the timeline ruler instead, unaffected by the clips in the primary storyline.

I know we already have "Override Connections", but it's a global function. I believe that my "Disconnect clip/storyline" command would offer more control and flexibility.

4. An option to play trough clips in the Browser

I would definitely love this feature! For now, the workaround is to use the Down arrow right before the clip finishes. This effectively jumps the playhead to the beginning of the next clip, and the playback continues (no need to press the space bar or L key).

5. In & Out points on selected clips/storylines

This is also necessary! And I would even go further: the Active Clip Indicator should tell FCPX where to place the In & Out points. Selecting a clip would be used to target a clip/storyline that is not "active".

Right now, the In & Out points always go to the primary storyline... unless you select the Range Tool and hover it over a connected clip before you press the I-O keys. But sometimes this feature doesn't work as expected, plus it's slower and more mouse-dependent. So yes, any refinement in this area is more than welcome!

Not an iMovie feature, but a multitake folder just like in Logic Pro X for voice over recording. And actual audio buses.

would be nice to see the new Photos Library as a share destination

There is already the Job Action (When Done Open With), that serves the same purpose. If another app can open the movie file, you should be good to go.