Video Editing · Beginner level

Beginner level · Module 1: Non-Linear Editing Fundamentals · Lesson 2 of 3

Resolution, Frame Rate and Project Settings

Set up projects to match the footage and the destination.

In this lesson you will

  • Choose resolution and frame rate
  • Avoid mismatched settings

Key concepts

resolutionframe rateaspect ratiocodecs and proxies

The lesson

Resolution is the image size: 1920 × 1080 (Full HD) or 3840 × 2160 (4K). Aspect ratio is the shape: 16:9 landscape, 9:16 vertical, 1:1 square.

Frame rate is frames per second: 25 fps is common in regions using PAL standards, 30 fps on many phones, 24 fps for a film look. Set the timeline to match most of your footage.

Heavy files such as 4K phone video may play slowly; editors can create lightweight proxies for editing and use the originals for export.

Step by step

  1. Check the footage's resolution and frame rate.
  2. Set the project to match.
  3. Create proxies for 4K clips.
  4. Test playback.

Practice activity

Configure the project for the provided footage.

Expected result: Correct settings with smooth playback.

Check your understanding

  1. What aspect ratio is vertical video?

    Show answer

    9:16.

  2. What are proxies for?

    Show answer

    Smoother editing of heavy footage.

Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.