You’ve shot, edited, and color graded the project. Now the client asks: “What format do you need?” Here’s how to deliver files they can actually use.

Ask What They’re Using It For

Before you export, confirm:

  • Broadcast TV? They need specific specs (ProRes, HD or 4K, exact frame rate)
  • Web/social media? H.264 MP4, 1080p is fine
  • Cinema/festival? DCP (Digital Cinema Package) or ProRes 4444
  • Internal use? Whatever plays on their computers (usually MP4)

The Safe Default: H.264 MP4

When in doubt, export:

  • Codec: H.264
  • Container: MP4
  • Resolution: 1920×1080 (1080p) or 3840×2160 (4K) if they requested it
  • Frame rate: Whatever you shot (23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, or 30 fps)
  • Bitrate: 10-20 Mbps for 1080p, 40-60 Mbps for 4K

This plays on almost anything: Mac, PC, phones, tablets, web browsers.

When to Use ProRes

ProRes is higher quality but creates massive files. Use it when:

  • Client is doing further editing or color grading
  • Broadcast delivery requires it
  • They specifically ask for a “master file”

ProRes 422 is the standard. ProRes 4444 if they need alpha channel (transparency).

Aspect Ratios

Confirm before you export:

  • 16:9 (1920×1080, 3840×2160): Standard for web, TV, most screens
  • 1:1 (1080×1080): Instagram feed
  • 9:16 (1080×1920): Instagram Stories, TikTok, YouTube Shorts
  • 4:5 (1080×1350): Instagram feed (taller crop)

If they need multiple formats, export each one separately. Don’t make them crop it themselves.

How to Deliver the Files

Small files (under 2 GB):

  • Email: Direct attachment
  • WeTransfer: Free, easy, no login required
  • Dropbox/Google Drive: Share link

Large files (over 2 GB):

  • Dropbox/Google Drive: Upload, share link with download permissions
  • Frame.io: Professional review and delivery platform (client can comment on the video)
  • Vimeo: Upload, allow download, send private link

Huge files (50+ GB ProRes masters):

  • Hard drive: Load it on an external drive, ship it or hand-deliver
  • LucidLink/Dropbox Business: Cloud storage with fast transfers

File Naming

Make it obvious:

  • Good: ClientName_ProjectTitle_16x9_1080p_Final.mp4
  • Bad: export_v3_final_FINAL_USE_THIS.mov

Include version numbers if you’re delivering revisions.

What to Avoid

  • Weird codecs: DNxHD, Cineform, AVI — most clients can’t play these
  • No audio: Check your export settings, make sure audio is included
  • Wrong frame rate: Don’t deliver 60fps if you shot 24fps (or vice versa)
  • Uploading to sketchy sites: Use professional tools, not random file-sharing services

The Deliverables Checklist

Before you send:

  1. Watch the exported file start to finish (catch errors before the client does)
  2. Confirm resolution, frame rate, and aspect ratio
  3. Check audio levels (not too quiet, not clipping)
  4. Test the download link (make sure it actually works)
  5. Include any supporting files (SRT captions, graphics, music cue sheet)

Need help with deliverables or post-production?

Let’s talk. We handle delivery specs for everything from social media to broadcast and can make sure your files are right the first time.

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Roy Tighe

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