This platform is designed to make sermon uploads simple and seamless for pastors and media teams. However, it’s important to remember that the platform has a file size limit of 9GB per upload. This guide provides solutions for reducing video file size and alternative methods for uploading, including the use of external platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.
Step 1: Trim the Video to Just the Sermon
The quickest way to reduce file size is to trim the video to include only the sermon message. Remove unnecessary parts, such as:
Pre-service activities or countdowns
Extended worship segments
Announcements, intros, or bumpers
If you’re using QuickTime Player (Mac), follow these steps:
Open the video file in QuickTime.
Select Edit > Trim.
Adjust the yellow sliders to isolate the sermon message.
Save the trimmed file by selecting File > Save As.
For PC users, free tools like VLC Media Player or the Photos App (Video Editor) offer similar trimming functionality.
Step 2: Compress the Video File
If the trimmed video is still larger than 9GB, compressing the file can help significantly. Compression reduces the file size while maintaining video quality.
Recommended Tools for Compression:
HandBrake (Free):
Download and install HandBrake.
Open your video file and select a preset like "Fast 1080p30."
Lower the quality slider slightly to further reduce the file size if needed.
Export the compressed file.
VLC Media Player (Free):
Open your video in VLC.
Go to Media > Convert/Save and select the file.
Adjust the resolution (e.g., to 720p) or bitrate for a smaller file size.
Save the compressed version.
Adobe Premiere Pro (Paid):
Use the "H.264" codec when exporting the video for efficient compression.
Lower the bitrate and resolution as needed to reduce the size.
Step 3: Adjust Video Resolution and Format
Another way to reduce file size is by lowering the resolution or converting the video to a more efficient format. For example:
Reduce resolution from 1080p to 720p if high resolution isn’t necessary.
Convert the file to MP4 with the H.264 codec, as this format offers high-quality compression and is supported by Content Studio
Step 4: Use External Platforms for Uploads
If the file is still larger than 9GB, external platforms like YouTube and Vimeo are excellent solutions. These platforms can handle larger files and seamlessly integrate with Content Studio
Why Use YouTube or Vimeo:
No File Size Restrictions: Both platforms allow uploads of much larger files than 9GB.
Trimming Tools Available: Once uploaded, you can trim the video directly on YouTube or Vimeo to isolate the sermon content.
SEO Benefits: Hosting your videos on YouTube can increase visibility and make your sermons easier to discover.
How to Use External Platforms:
Upload Your Video:
Upload your video to YouTube or Vimeo. Follow their upload guidelines to ensure smooth processing.
Bring the Link to the Video to Content Studio
In Content Studio, select YouTube or Vimeo as the upload method.
Paste the video link into the upload field.
Use the start and stop time selection tool to isolate and upload just the sermon portion from the linked video.
This method allows you to use the power of these platforms to manage larger files while ensuring that only the essential sermon content is processed by Content Studio.
Step 5: Use Dropbox or Google Drive for Smaller Files
If you prefer not to use YouTube or Vimeo, Dropbox and Google Drive are other options supported by Content Studio. However, note that:
Files uploaded from Dropbox or Google Drive must still be under 9GB.
Compress the video beforehand if it exceeds this limit.
Summary of Tools and Methods
Method | Tools/Platforms | Purpose |
Trim the Video | QuickTime, VLC, Photos App | Remove unnecessary sections |
Compress the File | HandBrake, VLC, Adobe Premiere Pro, Remux by Cobalt | Reduce file size while keeping quality |
Lower Resolution/Format | HandBrake, VLC | Change resolution or convert to MP4 |
Use External Platforms | YouTube, Vimeo | Upload larger files and link to Content Studio |
Dropbox/Google Drive | Dropbox, Google Drive | Upload smaller files under 9GB |
By following these steps, pastors and media teams can efficiently manage their sermon videos and successfully upload them to Content Studio without exceeding the 9GB limit. For further assistance, feel free to reach out to our support team!