How to burn timecode into a video

Burned-in timecode is added at export in Video by Zaweba. Open the export window with Ctrl+E, go to More options, and switch on burned-in timecode. The timecode is drawn into a corner of the picture in the exported file, while your project stays clean. The same options can burn in text or a picture instead, which is handy for a "draft" label or a logo.

A copy with timecode visible on screen is sometimes called a window burn. It means anyone watching can name an exact moment, which is what makes it so useful for notes, transcripts and logging.

When you need it

Review copies are the main reason. When a client, director or teacher watches a cut and writes down notes, timecode on screen lets them say "at 00:01:23:10" rather than "near the start". Translators and transcribers use it to time their text against the picture. People logging footage use it to note where each good moment is.

If you only need a review copy for notes, File > Export for review does the whole job: it makes a small H.264 copy with burned-in timecode and an offline review page, and notes come back as red markers on your timeline.

Adding timecode on export

Finish the cut you want to share. Press Ctrl+E and choose a format; a small MP4 is usually best for sharing.

Open More options and switch on burned-in timecode. Choose the corner so it doesn't cover anything important.

Export. Every frame of the file shows its timecode.

For text or a picture, use the same section. Text is good for "DRAFT" or "NOT FOR BROADCAST" labels. A picture overlay can carry a logo or a watermark.

Timecode inside the project

Sometimes you want timecode in the edit itself rather than only on export, for example on just one clip, or to show a clip's own source timecode. The generate effects include timecode and clip name overlays, which sit on a clip like any other effect. That is useful when you want viewers to see the source of each shot, or when you are making a reference copy for an assistant.

The multi-camera monitor can also show each file's timecode and the multi-camera timeline's in its overlays while you edit, which helps when matching cameras.

Avoiding timecode mix-ups

Check the frame rate. Timecode depends on it. Video by Zaweba keeps clip positions exact at common rates such as 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, 30, 50 and 60 frames a second, and 29.97 and 59.94 timelines show drop-frame timecode. Make sure the project rate matches the footage so the numbers line up with what other people see.

Keep it off the final version. Burned-in timecode is part of the picture, so it can't be removed afterwards. Keep your export presets clear: one for review with timecode, one for the final without. Your own presets can be saved with favourites, and shared as .ozexport files.

Place it where it won't hide things. Lower thirds and captions often sit at the bottom of the frame, so a top corner may be the better place.

Video by Zaweba is free software that runs offline on Windows with no account, so review copies are made on your own PC and sent however you like.