How to import .mts files into After Effects?


This post helps those who are having issues importing MTS files into After Effects. It displays a workaround to transcode .mts files to QuickTime MOV for use in After Effects with optimum performance.

How can I import .mts files into After Effects?
“Hi all, I have a Sony video camera. It records video files in .MTS format. I can’t open these MTS files in After Effects. How can I convert MTS files so I can use them in AE? Does anyone know a good MTS converter?”

HD Video Converter is a good option to convert MTS clips for use in After Effects. With this converter installed, it won’t be a problem to transcode MTS files to After Effects supported files. Here’s how.

How to convert MTS files for use in After Effects?

Software requirement
HD Video Converter
import MTS to After EffectsAfter Effects and MTS workflow

To do format conversion, follow these steps:
Step 1: Start up HD Video Converter as a professional MTS to After Effects Converter. Click ‘Add Video’ to import your source media to the program.
editing mts files in After Effects

Step 2: Select output format
Click the drop-down list besides ‘Format’, choose ‘Adobe Premiere/Sony Vegas > MOV (AVC)(*.mov)’ as the most compatible format for After Effects with best quality. You can choose ‘MPEG-2 (*.mpg)’, or ‘WMV (VC-1) (*.wmv)’ as well.

Also, if you are on a Windows PC, you can from the format bar, choose ‘Avid DNxHD 1080p (*.mov)’ as output under ‘Avid Media Composer’ column. And If you are on a Mac computer, and already have FCP installed on your computer, you can choose ‘Apple ProRes 422 (*.mov)’ as target under ‘Final Cut Pro’ catalogue. This method is also available when you want to edit MTS files in Adobe Premiere Pro.

Step 3: Custom video and audio settings (for advanced users)
Click ‘Settings’ button, the ‘Profile Settings’ panel pops up, on which you are able to modify video and audio settings like resolution, bit rate, frame rate, sample rate and audio channel.

Step 4: When ready, click ‘Convert’ to start transcoding MTS files to After Effects supported QuickTime MOV format. As soon as the conversion is complete, click ‘Open’ button to locate the generated files and now you are able to open them in AE for further editing.

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