Proxies are low-resolution copies of high-resolution images, one for each frame. Proxies are used to provide:

• Real-time playback of processed results (where the full-resolution clips are too big to play back in real time).
• Low-resolution stand-in clips in a compositing environment (Action or Batch) so you can create composites more quickly.
• A fast render preview in some modules, such as Action, and for soft effects and transitions in soft clips on the EditDesk.
• A fast work environment for a project when using proxies without the original media. You can capture proxies only or remove media from clip metadata while retaining proxies. The original media is recaptured and relinked to the clip metadata prior to output.

Proxies can be regenerated at any time, and you can even extract proxies from a clip. Extracting proxies is a quick way to deliver a review version of a high-resolution clip.