Tool to merge many clips into one?

[daktulus]

I have a problem many editors have with P2: it would be great to combine many clips in one. Sometimes you record only seconds and have hundreds of clips, which is a hussle editing. I edit on Avid MC 3.05.
Is there a tool to merge many clips into one?
Does Panasonsic know this problem for future development of software?

 

[NoahK]

Nope- other than string them all on a timeline and re-export a reference movie or nest it.

Noah

 

[Shooter]

I think P2 Forge can do this??? maybe?

I am no where near my laptop so can not check it for you at this time but I know I have never used it for this purpose.

Not sure why "its a problem with many editors" though!

 

[Nick Walters]

I can see serious disadvantages to having one big clip.

If you're doing one big unedited chunk, then perhaps that isn't bad, but I'd seriously try to use your editor for these purposes. If nothing else list your clips by time instead of name, or whatever you're currently doing.

This method of different clips is what in my opinion separates the old tape based monster of a workflow from the wonder of solid state. You can instantly(well almost) get rid of superfluous footage, free up space on cards, and completely simplify your ability to access material.

I would suggest logging, organizing, and embracing the P2 workflow before trying to make it act like the old tech.

I see the P2 workflow as an extension of nesting sequences, it's just one more separation which allows you to simply and quickly edit, instead of having to drag huge chunks onto the timeline and wittle them down....Even with tape I would only capture the good stuff, and would rarely capture a whole tape at once.

All this said, if you're doing a live event where you'll be using a large percentage of material, then perhaps you should consider allowing the camera to keep rolling....you certainly won't "use up" the cards like you would a tape, and if you need more record time, then consider a firestore...or if you're stationary you can use a cheap laptop with firewire and record right to a drive.