File Naming & Paths Overview
- Noah Chamow
File naming is largely based on variables or “wildcards” that are filled in when the record button is pressed. This way, changing data like the time, date, start timecode, take count, etcetera can be easily incorporated into file names without a lot of effort.
The variables are assembled like building blocks which is reflected in the UI by drag-and-droppable objects. The “blocks” are also editable as text for those who prefer it, eg %P_%I_%1-%2-%t
One of the most powerful tools in naming are the global and local lists. Local lists apply only to a single preset, whereas global lists can apply to any preset that includes that global wildcard. A user can fill lists before a shoot and almost instantly change the filename to reflect the current state of the shoot.
A great example is Sesame Street, where the lists are populated every shoot day with the day’s scenes, the Muppets and regular and guest actors who will be in the scenes, the scene type, etc. Between shots, the operator can set up for the next shot in just a few clicks without ever leaving the main view.
Record Paths are constructed the same way using the same components in templates. Paths can use all the wildcards available for file naming.