What delivery formats should I request from my editor?
Short Answer:
Ask for a high-quality master file (such as ProRes) for archiving, plus web-optimised H.264/H.265 MP4s for everyday use, and any platform-specific versions you need — for example square or vertical social cuts and correctly sized broadcast files. Also request captioned versions if required. The right formats depend on where the video will be shown.
Overview
Delivery formats should match how and where the video will be used. A single project often needs several exports — one high-quality master to keep, plus lighter, correctly sized versions for each destination.
Detailed Explanation
Formats worth requesting
Master file: a high-quality version (e.g. ProRes) to archive and re-export from.
Web/general use: H.264 or H.265 MP4 — high quality but manageable file size.
Social versions: square (1:1) and vertical (9:16) cuts for feeds and stories.
Broadcast: specific codecs, resolutions, and loudness specs if it will air.
Captions/subtitles: burned-in or separate subtitle files as needed.
Match each export to its platform rather than accepting one generic file — the wrong aspect ratio or an oversized file undermines an otherwise strong video.
Example
For a campaign you might receive a ProRes master, a landscape MP4 for the website and YouTube, a 1:1 version for Instagram feed, and a 9:16 version for stories and TikTok — all cut from the same edit.