iMovie '08: New Project Saving Problems for Education
Submitted by mott on February 27, 2008 - 15:34
The University of Kentucky has a clear document explaining procedures for storing video files and events information for iMovie '08.
In short, iMovie HD used an integrated, single "project" file model of storage: when you started a project, you'd have to import all the video you wanted to use into that one self-contained project document, and then edit it from within that document/project. This makes it simpler to keep track of everything you need for your project, and therefor, to keep it on an external FireWire drive, or internal Scratch Disk (a shared folder on the local Hard Drive).
iMovie '08, on the other hand, uses the now familiar multiple file directory structure of other programs (Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro for video, but also Pages uses a variation of this), where the content (the raw video footage) is stored in a separate location from the editing information (cuts, transitions, titles, etc.). The advantage of this is the ease of use for sharing content among projects. However, it does complicate storage as all footage becomes shared and accumulates quickly, filling up Hard Drive space, but it also makes it difficult for network accounts to work cleanly locally.
The U of K solution above, explains how to save the "iMovie Events" folder and "iMovie Projects" folders in non-default locations.
For educators, particularly at the primary level, this creates some complications.
We're still working them through.
