How to convert image sequence to video in Premiere Pro?

Converting an image sequence into a video in Adobe Premiere Pro is a straightforward process that involves importing the sequence correctly and then exporting it as a video file.

Importing the Image Sequence

The key to converting an image sequence is ensuring Premiere Pro recognizes it as a single animated clip rather than separate images. This is primarily done during the import stage.

Here's how to import your image sequence:

1. Prepare Your Files: Ensure all images in your sequence are in the correct sequential order and are named consistently (e.g., image_001.jpg, image_002.jpg, image_003.jpg, etc.). Place them all in a single folder.
2. Open Premiere Pro: Launch Adobe Premiere Pro and open or create a project.
3. Import: Go to File > Import... or double-click in the Project panel.
4. Navigate: Browse to the folder containing your image sequence.
5. Select the First Image: Deselect all image files first. Then, select only the very first image file in the sequence (as mentioned in the reference, "select image file one the first. One then go to the bottom.").
6. Enable Image Sequence Option: At the bottom of the import dialog box, check the box labeled "Image Sequence". This is crucial for Premiere Pro to treat the selected file and subsequent files as a single sequence.
7. Set Frame Rate: Click "Options" (or similar, depending on your version) near the "Image Sequence" checkbox to set the desired frame rate for your video (e.g., 24fps, 25fps, 30fps). If no option appears immediately, you might set the frame rate later in the sequence settings.
8. Import: Click "Open" or "Import".

Premiere Pro will import the entire sequence as a single clip in your Project panel.

Creating a Sequence and Editing

Once imported, the image sequence behaves like any other video clip.

1. Create a New Sequence:
   • Drag the imported image sequence clip directly onto the "New Item" icon at the bottom of the Project panel. Premiere Pro will automatically create a new sequence with settings matching the image sequence's frame rate and resolution.
   • Alternatively, go to File > New > Sequence and manually set up sequence settings that match your desired output and the imported image sequence (especially the frame rate).
2. Add to Timeline: Drag the imported image sequence clip from the Project panel onto the timeline of your sequence.
3. Edit (Optional): You can now edit this clip on the timeline, add audio, effects, transitions, etc., just like any other video.

Exporting the Video

The final step is to export the sequence as a video file.

1. Select Sequence: Make sure the sequence containing your image sequence is active in the timeline.
2. Export: Go to File > Export > Media... (or press Ctrl+M or Cmd+M).
3. Choose Format: In the Export Settings dialog box, select a desired video format from the "Format" dropdown (e.g., H.264, QuickTime). H.264 is a common format for web and general use.
4. Choose Preset: Select a suitable preset based on your target platform or desired quality (e.g., "Match Source - High Bitrate" or a specific YouTube/Vimeo preset).
5. Set Output Name and Location: Specify where you want to save the final video file and what to name it.
6. Check Settings: Verify that the video and audio settings (especially frame rate, resolution, and aspect ratio) are correct.
7. Export: Click the "Export" button.

Premiere Pro will render and create the video file from your image sequence.