Install ReelChest
Download, drag to Applications, open. The shortest install in your editing day.
ReelChest is a Mac app, Apple Silicon and Intel both. We'll walk through the install in about thirty seconds.
Download
Grab the latest build from the website. The file is a .dmg. Open it.
Drag to Applications
When the disk image opens, drag the ReelChest icon onto the Applications folder shortcut next to it. That's it. Eject the disk image.
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The mounted disk image: ReelChest icon on the left, Applications shortcut on the right. Drag one onto the other.
1280 × 800px · Single ReelChest window
First open
Find ReelChest in Applications. Right-click, choose "Open." macOS will ask if you trust this developer. Say yes once. Every future launch is just a click.
If macOS blocks it with a "can't be opened" message, that's Gatekeeper being protective. Open System Settings, Privacy & Security, scroll to the bottom, click "Open Anyway." We're working on a notarized build that won't need this dance.
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System Settings → Privacy & Security with the 'Open Anyway' button at the bottom of the pane.
1280 × 800px · Modal or sheet over the app
Where projects live
ReelChest doesn't lock your files into a special database. Projects are folders on disk. Pick a fast drive (SSD is happiest) and remember where you put it. We'll use that location in the next article when we make a first project.
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The empty Library on first launch, with the sidebar showing 'Add Source' at the top.
1280 × 800px · Full app window, max size