How to lock layers on the timeline in FCPX?

Hi, is there a way to lock a layer on the timeline in FCPX, in Premiere Pro you can padlock a layer and then it isn't affected by cuts. It's so handy in Premiere.

I'm doing edits, and have my method (which is probably wrong) but when I am cutting clips on a two camera edit, and have music under, the music is cutting too and I have to keep adjusting it.

Any help much appreciated. Cheers


[Re-Titled by Moderator]

Mac mini, macOS 15.3

Posted on Mar 10, 2025 9:01 AM

Reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Mar 10, 2025 9:28 AM

There no way to lock a layer in FCP, probably because there are no actual tracks in the software.


A few thoughts:

1) If you are editing to music, put the music in the primary storyline, and connect video to it. This way the music is not affected when you make cuts in the video.

2) If you are editing something that was shot with two cameras, you should learn how to use multicam clips.

A multicam clip will have the material from both cameras in separate Angles, and you cut from one to the other as simply as pressing 1, or 2, on your keyboard.


Here is a good and easy introduction to using multicam clips:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5baUmK8noc


Similar questions

3 replies
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Mar 10, 2025 9:28 AM in response to Philspix

There no way to lock a layer in FCP, probably because there are no actual tracks in the software.


A few thoughts:

1) If you are editing to music, put the music in the primary storyline, and connect video to it. This way the music is not affected when you make cuts in the video.

2) If you are editing something that was shot with two cameras, you should learn how to use multicam clips.

A multicam clip will have the material from both cameras in separate Angles, and you cut from one to the other as simply as pressing 1, or 2, on your keyboard.


Here is a good and easy introduction to using multicam clips:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X5baUmK8noc


This thread has been closed by the system or the community team. You may vote for any posts you find helpful, or search the Community for additional answers.

How to lock layers on the timeline in FCPX?

Welcome to Apple Support Community
A forum where Apple customers help each other with their products. Get started with your Apple Account.