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Blackmagic Design Releases DaVinci Resolve 21 Beta with Photo Editing and AI Features

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DaVinci Resolve 21 Beta Expands into Photo Editing with New AI Tools

Blackmagic Design has announced a beta version of DaVinci Resolve 21, a major update to its video editing and color grading software. The update introduces a new suite of tools for photo editing and organization, alongside new AI-powered features for search and visual effects. The software is currently available as a free beta for macOS, Windows, and Linux operating systems.

DaVinci Resolve 21 expands the software's capabilities beyond video post-production to include a dedicated workflow for still images.

Overview of the Update

The update integrates new organizational tools, AI features, and enhanced support for professional photography equipment and workflows.

New Photo Editing and Organization Features

The core addition is a new photo mode designed for managing and editing image collections. Key functionalities include:

  • Image Management: Tools for organizing, rating, and labeling large collections of photos.
  • AI-Powered Search: A feature that uses artificial intelligence to find specific subjects or content within an image library.
  • Editing Tools: The application of DaVinci Resolve's existing color-correction, masking, cropping, noise reduction, and sharpening tools to still images.
  • Preset Support: The ability to apply "Film Looks" presets to photos.
  • Format and Import Support: Support for common image formats (JPEG, HEIC) and RAW files from Sony, Nikon, Canon, and Fujifilm cameras. Users can also import images directly from Apple Photos or Adobe Lightroom Catalog files.

Collaboration and Performance Enhancements

The update maintains and extends features for collaborative work and efficient processing:

  • Cloud Collaboration: Multi-user collaboration is supported through Blackmagic Cloud syncing.
  • Batch Processing: GPU-accelerated batch exports and conversions for images.

Tethered Camera Control

DaVinci Resolve 21 adds the ability to control tethered cameras directly from the software. This feature, which currently supports Sony and Canon cameras, provides a live preview and allows for the adjustment of camera settings such as ISO, exposure, and white balance.

New AI Visual Effects Tools

Beyond photo editing, the update introduces new AI tools within the visual effects suite. These tools are designed to modify an actor's appearance, with capabilities such as adding wrinkles or altering facial shape to create younger or older looks.

Availability

DaVinci Resolve 21 is currently available as a free public beta. The final release date and potential pricing structure for the full version have not been announced.