ffmpeg Node icon

ffmpeg Node

n8n Node for some Ffmpeg functionality

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Overview

This node provides video processing capabilities focused on trimming and merging video segments based on user-defined highlights. It allows users to input a video URL and specify multiple highlight segments with start and end times, which the node then extracts and merges into a single output video. Optionally, transitions can be added between these trimmed segments to create smooth visual effects.

Common scenarios where this node is beneficial include:

  • Creating highlight reels from longer videos by extracting key moments.
  • Editing event footage to focus on important parts without manual video editing software.
  • Automatically generating summarized videos for presentations or social media sharing.

For example, a user could input a full-length lecture video URL and specify highlights such as the introduction, main topics, and conclusion. The node would then produce a shorter video containing only those segments, optionally adding fade transitions between them.

Properties

Name Meaning
Video Url A valid URL pointing to the source video to be processed.
Video Highlights JSON-formatted array of objects specifying highlight segments. Each object contains highlight_reason (description) and highlight_time (time range in "HH:MM - HH:MM" format). Example: [{"highlight_reason": "Introduction", "highlight_time": "00:00 - 00:10"}, {"highlight_reason": "Main event", "highlight_time": "01:00 - 01:30"}].
Add Transitions Boolean flag indicating whether to add visual transitions between the trimmed video segments.
Transition Type If transitions are enabled, specifies the type of transition effect to apply between segments. Options include: Cross Zoom, Dissolve, Fade, Wipe Left, Wipe Right.
Transition Duration Duration in seconds for each transition effect applied between video segments.

Output

The node outputs a JSON object representing the processed video result. This typically includes metadata about the newly created video file composed of the trimmed and merged segments. If binary data output is supported (not explicitly shown in the provided code), it would represent the final video file content ready for further use or download.

Dependencies

  • Requires an API key credential for accessing the underlying ffmpeg-based video processing service.
  • The node depends on external video processing libraries or services capable of handling video trimming, merging, and applying transitions.
  • Network access to the provided video URL must be available for fetching the source video.

Troubleshooting

  • Invalid Video URL: Ensure the video URL is accessible and points to a valid video file format supported by the processing backend.
  • Malformed Highlights JSON: The Video Highlights property must be a correctly formatted JSON string representing an array of objects with proper time ranges. Invalid JSON or incorrect time formats will cause errors.
  • Transition Errors: If transitions are enabled but the specified type or duration is invalid, the node may fail or skip transitions. Verify that transition options are selected properly.
  • API Authentication Failures: Missing or incorrect API credentials will prevent the node from executing. Confirm that the required API key or authentication token is configured in n8n.
  • Timeouts or Large Videos: Processing very large videos or many highlight segments might lead to timeouts or performance issues depending on the backend service limits.

Links and References

  • FFmpeg Documentation – For understanding video processing concepts like trimming, merging, and transitions.
  • JSON Format Guide – To ensure correct formatting of the Video Highlights input.
  • n8n Documentation – For general guidance on using custom nodes and managing credentials.

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