DaVinci Resolve terms

Proxy Workflow

A workflow where original high-resolution footage is substituted with lower resolution versions for easier editing.

What is a proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve?

A proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve is a process that allows users to work with lower resolution versions of their original high-resolution video files. This is particularly useful when working on a project that involves large, high-quality files that can be demanding on the system's resources. By using proxies, users can edit and make changes to their project more smoothly and efficiently, without the need for a high-end computer system.

In this workflow, the software creates smaller, lower-resolution versions of the original files, known as proxy files. These files are used for editing and previewing the project. Once the editing process is complete, DaVinci Resolve then relinks the edited proxy files back to the original high-resolution files for final rendering and export. This ensures that the final output maintains the high quality of the original files, despite having been edited using the lower-resolution proxies.

How to set up a proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve?

Setting up a proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve involves a few steps. First, you need to import your footage into the media pool. Then, go to the 'File' menu and select 'Project Settings'. In the 'Master Settings' tab, scroll down to the 'Optimized Media and Render Cache' section. Here, you can select the resolution and format for your proxy files. Click 'Save' when you're done.

Next, go back to the media pool, select the clips you want to create proxies for, right-click and choose 'Generate Optimized Media'. DaVinci Resolve will then create proxy files for your selected clips. To use these proxies during editing, go to the 'Playback' menu, and check 'Use Optimized Media If Available'. Now, DaVinci Resolve will use the proxy files for playback, making the editing process smoother. Remember to uncheck this option before final export to ensure the highest quality output.

Why is a proxy workflow important in DaVinci Resolve?

A proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows for smoother editing of high-resolution footage, especially on less powerful systems. High-resolution files can be quite large and require significant processing power to edit smoothly. By creating lower resolution proxy files, editors can work more efficiently without the need for high-end hardware.

Secondly, a proxy workflow can save a lot of time in the post-production process. Instead of waiting for high-resolution files to render, editors can make cuts, transitions, and other edits using the proxy files. Once the editing is complete, the software can then automatically apply those changes to the high-resolution files. This not only speeds up the editing process but also ensures that the final output maintains the highest possible quality.

Can you edit a proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve?

Yes, you can edit a proxy workflow in DaVinci Resolve. DaVinci Resolve offers a feature known as "Optimized Media" which functions similarly to a proxy workflow. This feature allows you to create lower resolution versions of your footage for smoother editing, and then seamlessly switch back to the original high-resolution files for final output.

To use this feature, you would first need to select the clips you want to create proxies for, then choose "Generate Optimized Media" from the context menu. You can also set your desired resolution and format for the proxies in the project settings. Once the proxies are created, DaVinci Resolve will automatically use them in the timeline for smoother playback. When you're ready to export, you can easily switch back to the original media for the highest quality output.

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