Use HeyMotion Graphics in Final Cut Pro

HeyMotion exports a standard MP4 (H.264 / AVC, VP9 fallback) at 30, which imports directly into Final Cut Pro. This guide covers bringing the clip in, placing it on your timeline, and keying green overlays with Final Cut's Keyer effect.

#Overview

Full-frame graphics play like any other clip in the timeline. Overlay templates render on solid green (#00FF00); the Keyer removes that green so only the graphic composites over your footage. There's no transparent export yet, so keying is how overlays are made see-through.

#Before You Begin

Export your graphic first — see Export an MP4. The file is in your Downloads folder as <template-id>-<timestamp>.mp4. Export in the aspect ratio your project uses. Export requires Google Chrome (desktop) or another Chromium browser.

#Step-by-Step Instructions

#1. Import the MP4

In Final Cut Pro, choose File → Import → Media (or press ⌘I), select the exported .mp4, and add it to your event.

#2. Place it on the timeline

Drag the clip from the browser to the timeline. Drop it above your primary storyline so it becomes a connected clip that layers over your footage. Full-screen intros and end cards can go directly in the primary storyline.

#3. Resize and position

Select the clip and open the Video inspector. Use the Transform controls (Scale and Position) to size and place the graphic. The export is full-resolution, so scaling down keeps it sharp.

#4. Trim to length

Drag the clip's edges in the timeline, or use the blade tool (B), to trim it to the exact on-screen duration you want.

#5. Key green overlays with the Keyer

For any overlay template (Lower-third tag, Subscribe bar, Arrow callout, and the rest of the Overlays family):

1. Select the overlay clip on the timeline.
2. In the Effects browser, find Keying → Keyer and double-click (or drag) it onto the clip.
3. The Keyer auto-samples the dominant green. If any green remains, use the Refine Key sample tool in the inspector to paint over leftover areas.
4. Adjust Strength and the Color Selection controls until the green is gone and the graphic's edges stay clean.

#Export Recommendations

Export in the same aspect ratio as your Final Cut project. The H.264 file imports cleanly; Final Cut can optimize or transcode media on import if you prefer, but it isn't required.

#Common Problems

• Green edges after keying — use Refine Key to sample the fringe, and nudge Color Selection or edge controls; scaling the overlay slightly can push any fringe off-frame.
• The overlay's own colors get keyed out — the Keyer sampled too broadly. Narrow the color selection or re-sample only the background green.
• Clip won't import — the export may have failed. See Troubleshoot a Failed Export.

#Related Articles

See Use HeyMotion Graphics in Premiere Pro and Use HeyMotion Graphics in DaVinci Resolve.