Setting up your timeline for smooth editing

Now that your project is organized, the next step is setting up your timeline for a seamless editing experience. We'll be working within Final Cut Pro, which utilizes a layer system. Much like building a painting, each layer adds depth and clarity to your final project.

Creating the foundation with a generator

To start, find your project by navigating to the event and double-clicking on the empty project in the timeline. The first layer I prefer to add is a generator. You'll find generators above near the titles tab; select "Custom" for a blank canvas. Extend the length of this generator to match your project needs. Using Shift + Z will fit it into your frame. At Trihard Studios, we use this base layer as a background to prevent accidental gaps during editing by masking windows of screen footage.

Adding the screen footage layer

Next, locate and select your screen footage from the browser. Click and drag this clip down onto your timeline. Ensure that your generator and screen footage layers align by adjusting the length of the generator as needed. This screen footage will serve as the main visual component that guides the viewer throughout the screencast.

Incorporating face cam footage

Following the screen footage, add your face cam footage as the top layer. Navigate to the cam footage in the browser, drag it onto the timeline, and ensure it's linked correctly. Keeping the face cam footage on top allows you to transition easily between full screen and picture-in-picture modes later on.

Enhancing audio with duplication

Both the face cam and screen footage come with attached audio tracks. I recommend duplicating the face cam footage to create a separate audio track. To do this, hold the option button, select the clip, and drag it beneath the generator layer, then lower the volume on the original clips. This new track will be your primary audio source.

Upscaling clips slightly

As a pro tip, I suggest upscaling your footage by 0.5% to avoid pixel edges. Highlight all three clips, head to the inspector window, and adjust the scale to 100.5. Incremental scaling acts like stretching a canvas to ensure a flawless fit.

Preparing for further enhancements

With your timeline structured, you are ready to efficiently address audio and color enhancements, which will be covered in upcoming lessons.