What is the Total Running Time (TRT)/picture lock?

TRT is the term for when the duration of a project has finally been determined and can be set in stone. From this point, external services such as color and audio correction can be actioned without the fear of the edit changing in duration. Picture lock is another term for TRT. I prefer to use the term picture lock as it better indicates a final state.

After the fine cut, the video is ready to be sent for finishing by color specialists, audio engineers, and special effects technicians. These specialists require the video to have a set duration, so no more changes to the timeline can be made. It’s pretty much the point of no return for the editing team. Even as a solo operator, I suggest that you keep the same mindset: once the picture lock point is reached, don’t make any duration changes to the edit. I know this is easier said than done, as one of the traits of an editor is always finding things to improve, but you...