Tips & Tutorials

Batch import multiple files automatically, without original source

Problem:  I imported an ALE (Avid Log Exchange) and want to link them to some imported files, that are placed in one folder.  I try to batch import all my clips from that one folder, but can only do one file at a time. Is there a way for Avid to batch import multiple clips, so I don't have to manually import every file?

Solution:  The answer is Yes. After importing your ALE into your bin, check your master clip names (under the Name Column) so it matches letter-for-letter the actual file you are trying to import.  It must be matched, even to the file extension (e.g. .jpg .mov).  As long as:

 

1. The master clip names match the original source file names



2. And the original source files are located in one directory (as opposed to multiple folders)

 

Doing the batch-import of one file should automatically link all other files, in that directory , without having to manually link each file, one by one.

If the ALE file you imported does not have the file extensions, you will need to re-create that ALE to include the file extenstions at the end of each master clip name.  Depending on the circumstances, a copy and paste procedure of the file extension to each clip name, could make this process faster.  ALE files are commonly created using Microsoft Excel.

To watch a demonstration of this, please click on the movie below: