File Types Compatible for Import into DaVinci Resolve

Eye See Color Services

Eye See Color works with DaVinci Resolve Studio v.19

DaVinci Resolve supports various file types for importing projects, timelines, and other assets. Here’s a comprehensive list of file types, their purposes, and the best use cases for each:

1. DaVinci Resolve Project (.drp)

  • Purpose: Project file
  • Best Use Case: Importing entire projects, including timelines, media, and settings.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on project complexity and media included.

2. DaVinci Resolve Timeline (.drt)

  • Purpose: Timeline data
  • Best Use Case: Importing timelines from other projects or backups without media.
  • Average File Size: Typically small, around 10-50 KB.

3. Final Cut Pro XML (.fcpxml)

  • Purpose: Exchange project data
  • Best Use Case: Importing projects from Final Cut Pro X, including timelines, clips, and effects.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on project size, typically 100 KB to a few MB.

4. Adobe Premiere Pro XML (.xml)

  • Purpose: Exchange project data
  • Best Use Case: Importing projects from Adobe Premiere Pro, including sequences and metadata.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on project size, typically 100 KB to a few MB.

5. Avid Media Composer AAF (.aaf)

  • Purpose: Exchange project and media data
  • Best Use Case: Importing sequences and media from Avid Media Composer.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on project and media, typically 1-5 MB for the AAF file.

6. Avid Media Composer MXF (.mxf)

  • Purpose: Media exchange
  • Best Use Case: Importing media files from Avid Media Composer workflows.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on resolution and length, similar to other MXF media files.

7. OpenTimelineIO (.otio)

  • Purpose: Exchange timeline data
  • Best Use Case: Importing timelines from different software tools that support OpenTimelineIO.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on project size, typically 100 KB to a few MB.

8. Frame.io XML (.xml)

  • Purpose: Import project metadata
  • Best Use Case: Importing project data and review comments from Frame.io.
  • Average File Size: Typically small, around 10-50 KB.

9. AAF Media Files (.aaf)

  • Purpose: Media and metadata
  • Best Use Case: Importing media and metadata from AAF-compatible editing systems.
  • Average File Size: Varies greatly depending on media and metadata size, typically 1-5 MB.

10. XML for EDL (.edl)

  • Purpose: Edit decision list
  • Best Use Case: Importing edit decisions and sequences from EDL-compatible systems.
  • Average File Size: Typically small, around 10-50 KB.

11. FCP7 XML (.xml)

  • Purpose: Import project data
  • Best Use Case: Importing projects from Final Cut Pro 7, including timelines and media references.
  • Average File Size: Varies based on project size, typically 100 KB to a few MB.

12. Cinema Tools XML (.xml)

  • Purpose: Project and metadata exchange
  • Best Use Case: Importing project data and metadata from Cinema Tools.
  • Average File Size: Typically small, around 10-50 KB.

13. Static Media Formats (e.g., JPEG, TIFF, PNG)

  • Purpose: Importing still images
  • Best Use Case: Adding static images to projects for graphics, overlays, or reference.
  • Average File Size:
    • JPEG: ~500 KB to 2 MB per image
    • TIFF: ~1 MB to 10 MB per image
    • PNG: ~1 MB to 5 MB per image

14. Audio Formats (e.g., WAV, MP3)

  • Purpose: Importing audio files
  • Best Use Case: Adding soundtracks, voiceovers, or sound effects to your project.
  • Average File Size:
    • WAV: ~10 MB per minute at 44.1kHz
    • MP3: ~1 MB per minute at 128 kbps

Choosing the Right File Type

When selecting a file type for import into DaVinci Resolve, consider:

  • Purpose: Determine if you’re importing a full project, timeline, media files, or other assets.
  • Compatibility: Ensure the file type is compatible with your current workflow and software versions.
  • File Size: Larger projects or media files can impact performance, so balance quality with manageability.

By choosing the appropriate file type, you can optimize your workflow in DaVinci Resolve, making the process of importing and managing your projects more efficient.

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