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Working with Chapters in Final Cut Pro

Learn how to embed or export chapter markers from Final Cut Pro for MediaZilla. Use MP4/HEVC with embedded chapters for best results.

Updated this week

Final Cut Pro lets you embed chapter markers directly into your exported video file, making them automatically available in MediaZilla. This is the most efficient workflow. You can also export an XML file of your chapters if you prefer to import them separately.


Step 1: Add Chapter Markers in Your Timeline

  1. Move the playhead to where you want the chapter to begin.

  2. Press M to add a marker.

  3. Double-click the marker, then click the Chapter Marker button.

  4. Enter a chapter title.

  5. (Optional) Adjust the thumbnail frame by dragging the marker’s pin.


Step 2: Export Chapters

Option 1: Embed Chapters in the Video (Recommended)

  1. Go to File > Share > Master File…

  2. In the Settings tab:

    • Format: Computer

    • Video Codec: H.264 or HEVC (H.265)

      • HEVC is more efficient and provides better quality at smaller file sizes.

      • For 4K content, always use HEVC.

    • Resolution: Match your project (e.g., 1920x1080 or 3840x2160).

    • Quality: Better Quality (slower, higher quality) or Faster Encode (faster, minimal difference).

    • Check Include Chapter Markers.

  3. Click Next, choose a file name and location, then click Save.

When you upload the exported video to MediaZilla, the embedded chapters will be automatically imported during the Add Scenes process.


Option 2: Export Chapters as an XML File

If you want more flexibility (e.g., to adjust chapter poster frames or keep a separate chapter file):

  1. With the timeline selected, go to File > Export XML…

  2. Save the XML file to your computer.

  3. Upload your video (exported in MP4/HEVC).

  4. During Add Scenes in MediaZilla, select Import Chapters and upload the XML file.


Step 3: Importing into MediaZilla

  • Embedded Chapters → Automatically imported during Add Scenes.

  • XML File → Manually import during Add Scenes.

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