So, you chose DaVinci Resolve—good choice! This powerful video editing software is perfect for beginners and experienced editors alike. In this blog, I’ll guide you through the basics of getting set up and editing your first video in just 10 minutes. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Download DaVinci Resolve ⬇️

Start by downloading the latest version of DaVinci Resolve from the Blackmagic Design website. While there is a paid version available, the free version offers about 90% of the functionality you’ll need for your video editing projects.

Step 2: Create a New Project in DaVinci Resolve 🎯

Once you’ve installed the software, open it up. A window will pop up where you can create a new project. Name your project something relevant to your video content and click “Create.”

Step 3: Understanding DaVinci Resolve Workspaces 👨🏻‍💻

Now that the main interface is open, you’ll notice different workspaces at the bottom of the screen:

• Media: For importing your video clips
• Cut: For basic edits
• Edit: For more complex video edits
• Fusion: For advanced visual effects
• Color: For color grading your footage
• Fairlight: For audio editing
• Deliver: For exporting your finished video

If you’re working on a simple project, let’s head straight to the Edit page.

Step 4: Set Up Your Project Settings ⚙️

Before importing media, click the gear icon in the bottom right corner to open the project settings. Here, you can set your resolution and frame rate. I personally prefer shooting in 4K at 50 FPS, but if you want HD, select 1920 x 1080 at 30 FPS for simplicity. Don’t forget to save your settings!

Step 5: Import Your Media into DaVinci Resolve 📥

To import video clips, go to the Media Pool on the left side of the screen. You can simply drag and drop your files into the Media Pool. If a box appears suggesting you change the project frame rate to match your footage, click “Change.” This keeps your frame rates consistent throughout the project.

Step 6: Editing Your Clips 🎞️

Now that your clips are imported, double-click any clip to preview it in the viewer. The project timeline is where the video editing magic happens. To start editing, drag your first clip onto the timeline.

Use the space bar to play back your edit. You can zoom in and out of the timeline using the plus and minus buttons for better visibility.

Step 7: Making Cuts in DaVinci Resolve ✂

To make precise cuts, select Linked Selection to cut both audio and video tracks simultaneously. Use the Blade Tool(press 'B') to cut your clips, and remember to switch back to the arrow tool when you’re not cutting to avoid unintentional edits.

Step 8: Adjusting Audio Levels 🔊

If you want to remove the audio track from a clip, turn off Linked Selection to delete the audio without affecting the video.

To add background music, simply drag your audio file from the Media Pool into the timeline. Adjust the audio levels to ensure that the dialogue is clear. A good rule of thumb is to set background music to a maximum of -20 dB.

Step 9: Adding Text and Titles to Your Video 🔠

To add titles, navigate to the Effects tab, select Titles, and choose a style you like. Drag it to the timeline and customize the text to fit your video’s theme and tone.

Step 10: Exporting Your Video in DaVinci Resolve 📤

Finally, navigate to the Deliver tab to export your project. Set your in and out points by pressing 'I' and 'O'. Choose the H.264 codec for exporting and ensure your resolution and frame rate are correct. Give your file a name, choose a save location, add it to the render queue, and hit “Render All.”

Conclusion 🧐

And that’s it! You’re now equipped to start your journey with DaVinci Resolve. This software is versatile enough for both beginners and professionals. I switched from Premiere Pro to DaVinci and haven’t looked back! If you want to hear more about my experiences with video editing and tips for improving your workflow, stay tuned for more insights.

Happy editing!

                                                                            Full YouTube Video. 👇