How to Edit 10x Faster in DaVinci Resolve: Mastering Proxies and More
Understanding Proxies in Video Editing
Proxies play a crucial role in video editing, especially when dealing with high-resolution footage. A proxy is a lower-resolution version of your original video file. These are essential because they are less demanding on your computer's processing power. Editing high-resolution files directly can be resource-intensive and slow down the editing process. By using proxies, editors can enjoy smoother playback and quicker editing, without compromising on the final output quality. It's a technique particularly useful when handling 4K or higher resolution footage.
Size comparison between the different codecs and where they were created
Codec Choices for Video Editing
The choice of codec – a device or program that compresses data to enable faster transmission and decompresses received data – is vital in video editing. Codecs like H.264 and H.265 are known for their high compression rates, making files easier to store and transmit. However, their complex compression can make them challenging to edit. Alternatively, codecs like DNxHR or ProRes, though resulting in larger file sizes, are less compressed and therefore more conducive to editing. Understanding the balance between file size, quality, and ease of editing is key to choosing the right codec for your project.
Basic differences between inter and intra frame codecs
Creating Proxies in DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve 18 offers a feature called the Blackmagic Proxy Generator, which automates the creation of proxy files. This tool simplifies the process of converting high-resolution footage into more manageable proxy files. By using this feature, editors can ensure a smoother playback and more efficient editing workflow. This functionality is particularly beneficial for those who regularly work with large video files and need to optimize their editing process.
Inside Blackmagic Proxy Generator - choose the folder, the codec and hit Start
Workflow Strategies for Remote Video Editing
Remote video editing has become increasingly popular, and DaVinci Resolve provides tools to streamline this process. One method involves using the Blackmagic Proxy Generator to create proxies right from the start of your project. Another approach is to use DaVinci Resolve’s export archive feature to share project files with remote editors. These strategies are especially useful for collaborative projects or when editing needs to be done across different locations.
Optimized Media and Render Cache in DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve offers more than just proxy editing. Optimized media and render cache are two features that enhance editing efficiency. Optimized media allows you to convert only specific parts of large files, useful for editing small sections of high-resolution footage. Render cache is beneficial for playback of effects-heavy segments, where it pre-renders these parts to ensure smooth playback. These features, used in conjunction with proxies, can significantly improve the editing experience in DaVinci Resolve.
Right clicking any video file, you’ll be able to generate proxy media, directly from within Resolve
Another method to speed things up is always enabling the Render Cache Fusion Output, and selecting the Smart or User cache options from the menu
Best Practices in Video Editing
When working with video editing software like DaVinci Resolve, it's important to maintain high standards of quality. Always grade and color correct using the original, high-resolution files to ensure the best quality. Be cautious with your export settings; double-checking them can prevent exporting at a lower quality than intended. Also, while third-party software like Handbrake can be used for creating proxies, it's crucial to ensure compatibility with your primary editing software.
That’s all for today! For more information, check out the video on the top of the page and let me know if you have any doubts! Thanks again and see you!
