Are you creating a commercial for your business and using a video production company to do it? When the job is over and production wraps, you'll want to ask for the final files from the project so that you have them. Here are some files you should ask for. 

Slated Master Files

Always ask for a master file of the commercial in its finished form. Long gone are the days when you needed to print the video to a tape for archival purposes since a digital file will do just fine now. This file will have the official slate at the front of the spot, which includes contact info for the video production company, the commercial name, relevant ad codes, and specifications about audio channels. Keep this file and back it up, since it is the highest quality version of the commercial. 

MP4 Files

You'll also want to receive a high-quality MP4 of the final commercial but without any of the slate information in the video file. This is going to be the file that you upload to social media, YouTube, or any other place that hosts video files. 

Slated Submaster Files

A submaster is a version of the commercial that is saved with the same codec as your slated master file and has all overlay graphics removed. This includes end tags, phone numbers, disclaimers, and things of that nature. You want a submaster file in case you need to make changes to these items. Even changing the copyright at the end of a commercial is very easy to change when you have the submaster file. 

Audio Split Files

When your finished commercial is sent to stations to be aired, everything is mixed down into a single audio track to be played together. However, the proper way to archive a commercial when it is completed is to make audio split files. This means that separate files are made of the voice-over, music, sound effects, and any synced sounds that go with the footage. Having audio split files allows you to easily make changes down the road, such as putting in a different voice-over or changing the music.

Music Track Files

If you used a royalty-free music track for your commercial, it is likely that you have the rights to use that track in future projects. You should request the source music file so that you have it since you did pay for a license to use it.

Contact a local video production company to learn more.