Original MOD file 16:9 changes to 4:3 after importing

[AvanDi]

Hi,

I have recorded MOD files (Everio) which is 16:9  (720x576). After importing the screen shows 4:3 with black bars on the left and right side. Part of the original screen is just cut off. When playing the original file on VLC I have 16:9. I didn't have this problem before. And I don't think I changed any settings. To fix the issue I checked the "projectinstellingen" and it shows the project is indeed in 720x576. (DV PAL). Note that when I import an MP4 file from my phone it perfectly shows the correct format.
So how can I get the original MOD file format in Premiere Elements?

Thanks for your support. / Andre

[Steve Grisetti]

This is a very common problem with Everio files, which don't use standard frame sizes and pixel aspect ratios. I don't know if anyone has found a fully satisfying solution. But try this: (You haven't said which version of the program you're working with, so these instructions will work for version 11 or later.)

Open a new project. On the New Project panel, click the Settings button and select the preset for Hard Disk/Flash Memory Camcorder, Widescreen 48 khz. (I assume, based on your question, the program is set up for PAL editing.)

Then, back on the New Project panel, check the option to Force Settings on your project. This will keep the program from changing your project settings once you add your video. Click OK to open your project and hopefully your video will fill your frame.

If not, you may want to consider investing in a new camcorder. A Canon Vixia AVCHD refurb can be had for under $200, and that will give you excellent high-def quality in a highly editable format. The Everio you're using is a format JVC developed and then abandoned because it caused so many problems.

[AvanDi]

Thanks Steve, unfortunately this didn't work. I tried several options in that menu. I didn't have this problem with Pinnacle but due to constant crashes I changed to Premiere Elements 14.

[Steve Grisetti]

Unfortunately, as I said, the problem is with the camcorder itself and the strange format of video it creates.

A small investment in an AVCHD camcorder will make all the difference in the world, no matter which program you use to edit your video -- and give your videos a whole new richness!

[Ann Bens · Accepted solution]

Known issue. (this is different from what Steve is referring to).

Convert files to mp4 with HandBrake.

It the same in Premiere Pro

Re: Adobe Premiere Pro Automatically Crops Source Video Upon Import

[Ann Bens]

Ann Bens wrote:

Known issue. (this is different from what Steve is referring to).

Convert files to mp4 with HandBrake.

It the same in Premiere Pro

Re: Adobe Premiere Pro Automatically Crops Source Video Upon Import

If this is not the case go up to Add Media, right click on the clip and Interpret Footage to widescreen.

[AvanDi]

Thanks again. Conversion with HandBrake works well. Not ideal situation of course but I can work with it. I don't have to record things ofter so it is not worth buying a new camcorder. Interpreting Footage as Widescreen didn't work. Thanks again for your responses. I think we can close this discussion.  Best regards, Andre

[Ann Bens]

Succes!

[Steve Grisetti]

Or buy an AVCHD camcorder, as I recommended.

Otherwise, with that JVC, you're going to continually struggle trying to fit that square peg in a round hole.