How to Set up Vertical Video in DaVinci Resolve

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of setting up vertical video in DaVinci Resolve, tailored for platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Whether you're using the free or studio version, these steps will help you create your content in the correct format for optimal viewing.

Step 1: Create a New Project

1. Open DaVinci Resolve.
2. Click on New Project.
3. Name your project (e.g., "Day Four") and click Create.

Step 2: Adjust Project Settings

1. In the project interface, navigate to the Settings gear icon.
2. Change the frame rate to 23.976 for better audio synchronization.
3. Set the resolution to 1080 x 1920 for vertical video.
4. Under Master Settings, configure the following:
   • Change Image Scaling to Scale full frame with crop.
   • If using log or raw footage, adjust Color Management settings:
     • For Mac users, select Rec 709-A.
     • For Windows users, choose Rec 709 gamma 2.2 or 2.4.

Step 3: Configure Color Management

1. For Timeline Color Space, select Rec 709-A to ensure proper display on Mac.
2. Set 3D Lookup Table Interpolation to Hedral if using LUTs (Lookup Tables) for color grading.
3. If using DaVinci color management, you may select Intermediate for more editing flexibility.

Step 4: Set Audio Levels

1. Navigate to the Fairlight page.
2. Set the Target Loudness Level to -5 LUFS for a balanced audio output, especially important for platforms like YouTube.
3. Keep in mind that audio levels can affect the overall quality of your video.

Step 5: Import Media

1. Go to the Media Page or simply drag and drop your video file (e.g., MP4) into the project.
2. To import, use the file explorer to locate your media and drag it into the timeline.

Step 6: Edit Your Video

1. Switch to the Edit Page for detailed editing.
2. Drag your video file to the timeline.
3. Ensure the Image Scaling is set to Scale with Crop to maintain the aspect ratio without distortion.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up your vertical video project in DaVinci Resolve. Following these steps will ensure your content is optimized for social media platforms. As you advance, consider exploring more complex editing techniques and effects to enhance your videos further. Keep practicing, and you'll become proficient in creating engaging vertical content!