When you export to QuickTime using the "Full Quality" preset, iMovie creates a file based on the native format of the current project. This format is selected when you first create the project based either on the option you choose, or the first footage you import into the project.
Here is a list of the options you can choose when creating a project, and the resulting file format that would be exported when selecting "Full Quality".
| Project format | Full Quality export format |
| DV or DV Widescreen | .dv file, DV Stream format |
| HDV | .mov file, Apple Intermediate Codec |
| MPEG 4 | .mp4 file, MPEG-4 video, AAC audio |
| iSight | .mov file, Photo-JPEG, 16-bit audio |
Some of these file formats do not contain chapter markers, URLs, aspect ratio flags, playback quality flags, or other metadata. As a result, when viewing or importing these files into other applications, these items will not be retained or read; because they are not a part of the file you are trying to import.
Also, DV and HDV files usually have rectangular pixels. As a result, the image may appear stretched when viewed in another application, such as QuickTime Player. This is normal for this format. The iMovie preview window compensates for the pixel shape depending on the monitor you use to view the project.
Note: When viewing a .dv file in QuickTime Player or other applications, note that it may also appear somewhat pixelated.