what are proxies in Premiere Pro and why use them
Jul 20, 2025 am 12:37 AMAgent clips are the way to use low-resolution alternative files in video editing to improve performance. Its core role is to improve editing fluency, especially when dealing with high resolution or high bit rate materials. Advantages include reducing hardware pressure, speeding up project response, and facilitating remote collaboration. In Premiere Pro, method one is to manually create the agent and link the original material; method two is to automatically complete the agent creation and switching using the "Agent Workflow" function. Notes include: the agent and the original film must be the same name, avoid accidentally deleting the proxy file, and must switch back to the original material before exporting. In addition, "Proxy Play" can be enabled to improve preview fluency.
Proxies in Premiere Pro are low-resolution versions of original video footage to replace the use of high-resolution or large files during editing. Their main purpose is to improve editing performance, especially when dealing with 4K, 8K or high bit rate materials.

What is proxy editing?
Simply put, proxy editing is to use a temporary file with a small size and low image quality to replace the original large file for editing. After the editing is completed, then switch back to the original high-quality material for output.

For example: You took an 8K video, the file is big and stuck, and the Premiere playback is not smooth. You can create a proxy video with 1080p or lower resolution, use only this small file during the editing process, and then "change" it back before finally exporting.
Why use proxy files?
The most core reason for using proxy files is that the editing is smoother and more efficient .

- Low hardware pressure : Low resolution files require less CPU and GPU, and smoother previews.
- Projects are more responsive : especially when multi-layer editing, color grading or special effects, proxy files can significantly reduce lag.
- Suitable for remote collaboration : package the proxy files and projects to others, and others can open them without a high-performance computer.
If your computer is in average configuration or the material format is complex (such as H.264, ProRes 422 HQ, etc.), proxy editing is particularly practical.
How to use proxy files in Premiere Pro?
Premiere Pro offers two common ways to use a proxy:
Method 1: Create a proxy manually and link it
- Use third-party software (such as Adobe Media Encoder, Handbrake, etc.) to convert the original material to low-resolution MP4.
- Import these proxy files in Premiere and edit them normally.
- After the editing is complete, reconnect the original material through the "Offline/Online" function.
Tips: It is best to add a
_proxy
logo when naming the proxy file to facilitate later identification.
Method 2: Use the "Agent Workflow" function (recommended)
Starting with Premiere Pro CC 2021, Adobe introduces native proxy processes:
- Right-click on a material on the timeline or clip in the project panel → “Agent” → “Create Agent Media”
- Set the proxy format (it is recommended to select H.264, resolution 1080p or lower)
- Premiere will automatically call Media Encoder to generate proxy files
- After the creation is completed, click "Use Agent" to switch to proxy clip mode
After this operation, the entire agent process is almost completely automatic, which is very worry-free.
What should I pay attention to when using proxy clips?
Although proxy editing is practical, there are several details that are easily overlooked:
- The agent and the original film must maintain the same name and order , otherwise it will not match correctly.
- Do not delete the proxy file by mistake, otherwise the project will appear "offline".
- Before exporting, be sure to confirm that you have switched back to the original material, otherwise the output is low-quality content.
- If you are collaborating with proxy, remember to include proxy files and project files when packaging.
There is also a hidden trick: you can enable "Proxy Play" in "Sequence Settings", so that even if the proxy file is not replaced, Premiere will automatically reduce the playback quality and improve the smoothness.
Basically that's it. Agent editing is not a must, but it does make it easier for you when dealing with large files or multi-track projects.
The above is the detailed content of what are proxies in Premiere Pro and why use them. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!

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