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How to Start Video Editing for Free with DaVinci Resolve

Tap a step to see it in order.

  1. Start with the free version

    You can download the free version of DaVinci Resolve from Blackmagic Design's official website, and it covers most core features β€” from cut editing to professional-grade color correction β€” at no cost.

  2. Create a project and import media

    In the Media page, bring in the video clips you want to edit and add them to your project.

  3. Edit in the Cut or Edit page

    Choose whichever suits your workflow β€” the Cut page for fast, straightforward editing, or the Edit page for precise timeline work β€” and edit your footage there.

  4. Do basic color correction in the Color page

    Use the node-based color wheels on the Color page to adjust brightness, contrast, and hue, shaping your footage into the mood you're going for.

  5. Polish the audio in Fairlight

    In the Fairlight page, adjust each track's volume and balance so dialogue and background sound come through naturally.

  6. Export the final video in Deliver

    In the Deliver page, choose your output format, codec, and resolution, then run the render to produce your finished video file.

Free, but professional-grade

DaVinci Resolve is widely used in broadcast and film color grading, yet the free version alone is enough to handle most of a typical project, from cut editing all the way through color correction.

If you want to add 3D elements later

If your editing eventually calls for 3D graphics or motion elements, it's worth exploring 3D modeling software that pairs well with a video pipeline like this once you're comfortable with the editing basics.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between the free version and the paid Studio version?

The free version alone is enough for basic editing and color work; the paid Studio version adds extras like advanced noise reduction, some collaboration features, and support for certain additional codecs.

Should I learn the Cut page or the Edit page first?

If you want to finish a rough edit quickly, the Cut page is more comfortable to start with; if you need fine-grained timeline control, the Edit page is the better fit β€” pick based on what the project calls for.