How to Expertly Export & Render Video From DaVinci Resolve (Complete Guide)

DaVinci Resolve 18 is a video editing software that provides a plethora of features. Among these features the capability to export videos, in formats holds significance. In this article I will guide you through the process of exporting videos in DaVinci Resolve 18, step by step guaranteeing quality for your projects.

DaVinci Resolve 18 is a video editing software that provides a set of tools for enhancing videos, adjusting colors, adding visual effects and refining audio. A standout feature of DaVinci Resolve 18 is its exporting capabilities. In this article we will walk you through the steps to export videos using DaVinci Resolve 18 enabling you to achieve quality, for your projects.

To begin with lets first grasp the fundamentals of video exporting. When you export a video what you’re essentially doing is converting the project file into a format that can be easily viewed on devices and platforms. It’s important to note that the quality of the exported video can significantly differ based on the settings you opt for. So it becomes indispensable to familiarize yourself with the settings and options offered in DaVinci Resolve 18.

When you want to export a video you’ll have to select both a file format and a codec. The file format determines the type of video file that will be generated, like MP4, MOV or AVI. On the hand the codec refers to the software for compressing and decompressing the video data. Certain codecs can maintain video quality while reducing the file size, which makes them perfect, for exporting videos.

When exporting your video it’s crucial to take into account the resolution and frame rate. Resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed on the screen. Has an impact, on video quality. On the hand frame rate, which is measured in frames, per second (fps) determines how your video plays. A higher frame rate usually leads to smoother playback. Can also result in file sizes.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the step-by-step guide on how to export videos in DaVinci Resolve 18.

1. Go to the Delivery module: Start by going to the Delivery module, which is represented by an icon with a rocket drawn on it.

Once you enter, you will see different export presets at the top for YouTube, H.264, H.265, and options to export the project for use in Final Cut or Premiere. I only suggest using the settings at the top to export the video quickly.

2. Choose your settings: Click on the custom icon to make your own adjustments manually. This gives you control of all the options. The first step is to give your video a name and choose where on your computer you want to save the video file.

3. Select the part of the video to export: Everything that is below the gray bar on the timeline is the part of the project that will be exported. Press the ‘I’ key to mark the video input and the ‘O’ key to mark the video output. Make sure you have done it correctly as many times there are frames of the video without selecting. You can zoom in and fix it.

4. Choose the export settings: In the render section, you can select an individual clip or clips. In the format, I recommend using the MP4 format.

In resolution, make sure you have the correct resolution of your video. Do not use a lower or higher resolution. For resolution, stick to a middle grade-4k for most projects, and when it comes to frame-rate, stick to whatever you have been using in the project. 

In the image frequency, put the same one that you have used in the settings of your project.  Additionally, when it comes to the codec options, remember that the H.264 codec is the most popular option, while the H.265 file is more streamlined and takes up less space. 

5. Advanced settings: In the advanced settings section, I recommend activating the option of force sizing to the highest quality. In audio quality, select the AAC or PCM codec if it allows it. In the sample rate, make sure it is at maximum.

6. Add to render queue: Once you have finished, click on ‘add to render queue’. You will see that the project has been added to the queue. You would only have to give render and it would start exporting the video.

• If you want to export your video without losing anything for quality, use the MXFOP1A format. In the codec, select DNxHR. And in type, select 44412 bits or 44410 bits. But be aware that the final file will be 20 times bigger than an H.264 video.
• If you want to export different versions of the video, you can change the name and add it to the processing queue. With several videos added in the queue, you can select one and render only that one, or you can also select all three and render all.

When you’re preparing a video, for export it’s important to have a grasp of how video compression functions. Video compression is about reducing the file size of a video without compromising its quality much. This is achieved by getting rid of data and using algorithms to encode the video data more efficiently.

There are two methods of video compression; lossless and lossy. Lossless compression aims to maintain the video quality. The reduction in file size isn’t very significant. On the hand lossy compression can considerably shrink the file size. There may be some compromise on the videos overall quality.

In DaVinci Resolve 18 when you’re exporting a video you have the option to choose your level of compression depending on your requirements. If you’re exporting for purposes or film festivals it might be wise to opt for compression in order to preserve top notch quality. However if you’re exporting for streaming purposes lossy compression might be more suitable as it ensures loading times and seamless playback.

The Role of Bitrate in Video Exporting

Now let’s talk about another aspect when exporting videos; bitrate. Bitrate refers to the amount of data processed per unit of time in a video file. Is usually measured in kilobits per second (Kbps). It plays a role, in achieving results during your export process.

The video quality and file size of a video are influenced by the bitrate used. A higher bitrate generally results in video quality. Also leads to larger file sizes. Conversely a lower bitrate can result in video quality but smaller file sizes.

In DaVinci Resolve 18 when exporting videos you have the option to adjust the settings to find a balance, between video quality and file size. For example if you’re exporting a video for streaming purposes it may be preferable to decrease the bitrate so that the video loads quickly and streams smoothly. On the other hand if you’re exporting a video, for use it would be advisable to use a higher bitrate in order to maintain the highest possible video quality.

Different platforms may have varying specifications, for video formats, resolution and bitrate. For example YouTube suggests using the MP4 format with frame rates of 24, 25 30 48, 50 or 60 frames per second. Conversely Instagram prefers either the MOV or MP4 format with a frame rate of 30 frames per second.

When exporting videos in DaVinci Resolve 18 you have the option to customize the export settings based on the requirements of your target platform. This ensures that your videos will play smoothly and appear at their quality, on each platform.

Sometimes, you might encounter issues when exporting videos in DaVinci Resolve 18. Here are some common problems and solutions:

• Exported video has poor quality: This could be due to low export settings. Try increasing the resolution, frame rate, or bitrate in the export settings.
• Exported video is too large: This could be due to high export settings. Try reducing the resolution, frame rate, or bitrate. You can also try using a different codec or format that offers better compression.
• Exported video doesn’t play correctly: This could be due to an incompatible format or codec. Try exporting the video in a different format or codec. You can also check the requirements of the platform you’re exporting the video for.

When you embark on your video editing journey using DaVinci Resolve it’s worth considering the option of enriching your projects with notch content available, on Envato Elements. By subscribing to Envato Elements you unlock access to a collection of high quality assets such, as stock footage, music, graphics and more.

One of the benefits of Envato Elements is downloads. This allows you to explore assets and discover the match for your project. Whether you’re working on a film, a YouTube video or a promotional clip. Envato Elements provides all the resources to elevate your project to new heights.

Exporting videos, in DaVinci Resolve 18 is an easy process. This detailed guide will help you effortlessly adjust your project to formats while ensuring top notch video quality. Always remember that practice makes perfect so dive into the features and tools offered by DaVinci Resolve 18 to enhance your video editing abilities. Enjoy the editing process!