How do you store and deliver video files?

1 Formats and codecs

A video file format is the container that holds the audio, video, and metadata of your video. A video codec is the algorithm that compresses and decompresses the video data. Some common video file formats are MP4, MOV, AVI, and WMV. Some common video codecs are H.264, HEVC, ProRes, and DNxHD. Choosing the right format and codec for your video files depends on several factors, such as the quality, size, compatibility, and purpose of your video. For example, MP4 with H.264 codec is a widely supported and versatile format that works well for online streaming and sharing. MOV with ProRes codec is a high-quality and lossless format that preserves the details and colors of your video for editing and post-production.

2 Storage and backup

Video files can take up a lot of space on your computer, hard drive, or cloud storage. To avoid running out of space or losing your files, you need to have a good storage and backup system. A storage system is where you keep your video files while you are working on them or after you finish them. A backup system is where you copy your video files to another location in case of damage, loss, or theft. A good storage and backup system should have enough capacity, speed, security, and reliability for your video files. For example, you can use an external hard drive or a NAS (network-attached storage) device as your primary storage system, and a cloud service or another external hard drive as your backup system.

3 Optimization and compression

Video files can be too large or too slow to share, stream, or download without optimization and compression. Optimization and compression are processes that reduce the size and improve the performance of your video files. Optimization involves adjusting the settings and parameters of your video files, such as resolution, frame rate, aspect ratio, and bitrate. Compression involves applying a codec that reduces the amount of data in your video files, such as H.264 or HEVC. Optimization and compression can help you save space, bandwidth, and time, but they can also affect the quality and compatibility of your video files. Therefore, you need to balance the trade-offs between size and quality, and test your video files on different devices and platforms before delivering them.

4 Delivery methods and platforms

Video files can be delivered in different ways and for different purposes, such as uploading to a website, streaming on a platform, sending to a client, or burning to a disc. Each delivery method and platform has its own requirements and specifications for your video files, such as format, codec, resolution, bitrate, and file name. You need to know the delivery method and platform of your video files and adapt them accordingly. For example, if you are uploading your video files to YouTube, you need to follow the YouTube video specifications, such as using MP4 with H.264 codec, choosing the highest resolution possible, and adding metadata and tags to your video files.

5 Tools and software

Video files can be stored, delivered, and managed with various tools and software, such as video editing software, video converter software, video player software, and video hosting services. These tools and software can help you create, edit, convert, play, and share your video files with ease and efficiency. However, not all tools and software are compatible or suitable for your video files. You need to choose the tools and software that match your video files' format, codec, quality, size, and purpose. For example, if you are editing your video files with Adobe Premiere Pro, you need to use a format and codec that Premiere Pro supports, such as MOV with ProRes codec or MP4 with H.264 codec.

6 Tips and best practices

Video files are not static or fixed, so you need to keep learning and improving your skills and knowledge on how to store and deliver them. To do this, you should organize your video files with a clear and consistent naming and folder system. Additionally, label and document your video files with metadata, such as title, description, date, and keywords. It's also important to keep multiple copies of your video files in different locations and update them regularly. Moreover, use the highest quality and lowest size possible for your video files. Furthermore, check the compatibility and performance of your video files on different devices and platforms. Lastly, seek feedback and advice from other video editors and professionals.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?