Face Tracking Effect in DaVinci Resolve 18 | UNDER A MINUTE

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through creating a center face tracking effect in DaVinci Resolve 18. This popular effect can enhance your videos by ensuring that the subject's face remains the focal point, even as the camera moves.

Step 1: Set Up Your Project

• Open DaVinci Resolve 18 and create a new project.
• Import the video footage you want to edit.
• Drag your footage onto the timeline.

Step 2: Access the Color Workspace

• Click on the "Color" tab at the bottom of the screen to switch to the color grading workspace.
• Ensure your video clip is selected in the timeline.

Step 3: Add a New Node

• Right-click in the node editor panel (the section on the right side of the screen).
• Select "Add Node" > "Add Serial" to create a new serial node where you will apply the face tracking.

Step 4: Open the Tracker Panel

• In the middle panel, locate and click on the "Tracker" icon (it looks like a crosshair).
• This will open the tracking controls, where you can set up the face tracking.

Step 5: Select the Face for Tracking

• Use the "Window" tool (the circle icon) to create an oval shape around the face you want to track.
• Adjust the size of the oval to fit the face properly.

Step 6: Track the Face

• With the window selected, click the "Track Forward" button (the right arrow) in the tracker panel.
• DaVinci Resolve will analyze the footage and track the face as it moves throughout the clip.

Step 7: Apply Effects

• After tracking, you can apply any desired effects or adjustments to the tracked area.
• For example, you can change the color, add a blur, or apply a vignette to emphasize the face.

Step 8: Fine-Tune Your Effect

• If the tracking is not perfect, you can manually adjust the tracking points.
• Use the keyframe controls to refine the position of the window if needed throughout the clip.

Conclusion

You have successfully created a center face tracking effect in DaVinci Resolve 18. This effect can significantly enhance the focus on your subject in videos. Experiment with different effects and adjustments to see what works best for your project. For more advanced features, consider exploring additional tools and plugins available for DaVinci Resolve.