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 specified highlights. It allows users to input a video URL and define 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 for this node 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 with transitions for presentations or social media.

For example, a user could input a full-length webinar recording and specify time ranges for introduction, main topics, and Q&A sessions. The node would trim these segments and merge them into one concise video, optionally adding fade transitions between segments.

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 includes 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 transitions between the trimmed video segments.
Transition Type Type of transition effect to apply between segments if transitions are enabled. Options: 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 merged video composed of the trimmed segments defined by the highlights. The output is typically provided as a binary video file suitable for further use or download.

  • The json output field contains metadata about the processed video, such as segment details and possibly status information.
  • Binary data output contains the final merged video file after trimming and optional transitions.

Dependencies

  • Requires access to the input video via a valid URL.
  • Depends on an external ffmpeg-based service or API (configured via an API key credential) to perform video trimming, merging, and applying transitions.
  • Proper configuration of the API authentication token or key within n8n credentials is necessary for the node to function.

Troubleshooting

  • Invalid Video URL: If the video URL is unreachable or invalid, the node will fail to fetch the video. Ensure the URL is accessible and points directly to a supported video format.
  • Malformed Highlights JSON: The Video Highlights property must be a correctly formatted JSON string representing an array of objects. Parsing errors will cause execution failure. Validate JSON syntax before running.
  • Unsupported Time Format: Highlight times must follow the "HH:MM - HH:MM" format. Incorrect formats may lead to trimming errors.
  • Transition Errors: If transitions are enabled but the type or duration is invalid, the node might throw errors related to video processing. Use only the provided transition options and reasonable durations.
  • API Authentication Issues: Missing or incorrect API credentials will prevent the node from communicating with the backend service. Verify that the required API key or token is configured properly in n8n.

Links and References

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