FCP: how to move media OUT of the Library?

Hi folks!

I made the mistake of starting a new FCP library with the Import settings set to copy all the media into the library. But I wanted to keep the media external for at least the time being. So I'm now running out of disk space because the library is huge and I don't want to delete the external media yet.

So what I'd really like to do is to ask FCP to move the previously-consolidated media OUT of the Library, allowing the Library to shrink and giving me Finder access to the media. Is there a way to do this? This is basically the opposite of the "Consolidate" button...

Posted on Feb 9, 2025 8:11 AM

Similar questions

2 replies

Feb 9, 2025 2:50 PM in response to Luis Sequeira1

Oh dang. Yes, that worked as you stated.

Simply didn't see that coming. I always thought Consolidate was a one-way venture INTO the Library. I think that's because of the age-old features in iTunes (now "Music") and Photos, which let you move imported content into the Library, but don't have any option for going the other way.

Anyway, THANK YOU!!

Feb 9, 2025 9:03 AM in response to Dave Kitabjian

It works just the same way as when consolidating into the library.

Select the desired location - presumably, on a connected external drive.

Then click Consolidate.

This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

FCP: how to move media OUT of the Library?