THE FILE FIELD GUIDE
.r3d

RED RAW video

Video

R3D is REDCODE RAW footage. A clip may span multiple R3D files, with original RDC/RDM folders and metadata important to playback. Check complete clip structure before exporting delivery video.

Main use
Archiving and editing RED raw video
Data type
Binary data / document
All sections, questions and sources

Content reviewed: · Editor:Kai

Example: a practical checking sequence

Example: partial RED playback calls for checking all numbered segments and original clip folders. Do not reorganize segments as separate recordings. Verify full duration and whether exported MOV is self-contained or references R3D, according to recipient requirements.

Opening steps

Choose your environment or purpose to see its steps.

Open in REDCINE-X PRO or a compatible app

Preserve segmented files and folders.

  1. Copy the card’s folder structure intact.
  2. Import the clip and verify complete duration across segments.
  3. Check audio, color and associated RMD metadata.
Transfer to an editor

Do not assume every segment is an independent clip.

  1. Check RED raw support and receiving version.
  2. Transfer complete clips with the original structure.
  3. Compare duration, audio and raw controls.

Menu labels and support vary by app, OS and version. Preserve the original before making changes.

Troubleshooting by symptom

  • Truncated playback: check for missing segments.
  • Only the first portion plays: obtain all segments of the clip.
  • Color differs: compare raw settings, RMD and color management.
  • Do not infer duration from segment size; camera recording conditions differ.
  • MOV failure: a reference wrapper may still require source R3D.

R3D → editing or delivery video

  1. Open the complete clip in compatible software.
  2. Check raw controls and export the required codec/container separately.
  3. Verify duration, color, audio and recipient playback.

Some output workflows reference original media; verify independent playback when self-contained video is required.

Treat segments as one clip

Segment sizes vary by camera; preserve clip folders and sequences rather than assuming one universal size.

Source for these steps:RED · R3D folder structure / RED · Multiple R3D files

Preserve source and processing metadata

Check processing metadata and preserve recording structure separately from rendered output; follow supported management when renaming or moving.

  • Compare all segment sizes.
  • Record raw controls and color reference.
  • Export to a separate destination.

Source for these steps:RED · Export clips

Related-format differences

Related-format differences
Format / purposeUse and preserved information
R3DRED raw camera source.
RMDProcessing-related metadata.
MP4 / MOVDelivery/editing output depending on settings.

Handling and security

Check footage-sharing rights and use trusted RED-capable tools.

Questions and answers

Is one R3D always one complete clip?

No; clips may be segmented.

Are all segments 4 GB?

It varies by camera and conditions.

Can I rename segment numbers?

Preserve structure to avoid breaking references.

Is sending MOV always enough?

A reference wrapper may still require R3D.

Does delivery video preserve raw controls?

Ordinary rendered output does not.

Format facts: name, steward and MIME type
Formal name
REDCODE RAW
Steward / specification
RED Digital Cinema
MIME type
Check the producer or implementation; do not assume a single universal MIME value.

Primary and official sources

  • Software documentationR3D folder structure

    RDC/RDM folders, segmented R3D and RMD

    RED · Link checked:
  • Software documentationMultiple R3D files

    Working with segmented files as a clip

    RED · Link checked:
  • Software documentationExport clips

    Exporting clips

    RED · Link checked: