💡 Tips & Best Practices

Import Workflow

  1. Always Verify Backups

    • Enable checksum verification for critical footage
    • MD5 is a good balance of speed and security
    • SHA256 for maximum security (slower)

  2. Use Consistent Organization

    • Choose an import layout that matches your workflow
    • Stick with it for consistency
    • Date/Camera is excellent for multi-camera shoots

  3. Label Your SD Cards

    • Configure SD card profiles for each camera
    • Use clear names (Camera A, B-Roll, etc.)
    • Set default layouts per camera

  4. Check Storage Before Import

    • SD Studio validates storage before starting
    • But check manually for large imports
    • Ensure backup destinations have space

Project Management

  1. Use Project Profiles

    • Create profiles for different project types
    • Standardize folder structures
    • Saves time and maintains consistency

  2. Regular Archiving

    • Archive completed projects monthly
    • Free up workspace storage
    • Keep backups safe

  3. Organize by Date

    • Use date-based naming conventions
    • Makes finding projects easier
    • Better for long-term organization

Backup Strategy

  1. Follow 3-2-1 Rule

    • 3 total copies
    • 2 different media types
    • 1 off-site copy

  2. Test Restores

    • Periodically verify backups are accessible
    • Test restoring files from backup
    • Ensure network destinations are reachable

  3. Monitor Storage

    • Keep backup destinations organized
    • Clean up old backups periodically
    • Monitor available space

Performance Tips

  1. Multiple Small Cards vs. One Large Card

    • SD Studio handles multiple SD cards simultaneously
    • Can import from up to 3 cards at once
    • Faster overall workflow

  2. Network Storage

    • Mount network shares before importing
    • Ensure stable network connection
    • SD Studio retries failed network copies automatically

  3. Verification Overhead

    • File Size verification: Fastest (no overhead)
    • MD5 verification: ~20% slower
    • SHA256 verification: ~35% slower
    • Choose based on your needs