DaVinci Resolve 21: A New Contender in Photo Editing

DaVinci Resolve 21 has introduced a dedicated Photo page that aims to provide a viable alternative to Adobe Lightroom for casual users and filmmakers. The software now supports RAW photo formats from major brands including Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, and Sony, with plans to expand support for additional brands. Users can import photos into Projects, akin to Lightroom Catalogs, using a straightforward drag-and-drop method or the import function. The Media file management page is designed to handle RAW photos effectively, allowing for organization by file name, ratings, and tags.

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The node-based workflow in DaVinci Resolve 21 is particularly advantageous for photo editing, enabling users to create complex grades that can be saved and applied across multiple images. This visual approach to grading is noted to be more powerful than Lightroom's system. The software also includes various filter-style effects and advanced AI tools, such as AI CineFocus and AI Ultrafocus, which are not available in Lightroom without third-party plugins. However, while the Photo page offers robust editing capabilities, it does not support multi-image compositing directly within the Photo interface, requiring users to transition to the video timeline for such tasks.

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Upon completing edits, users have two options for exporting images: a Quick Export function with minimal settings and a more comprehensive Deliver page that allows for detailed control over size, file type, and resolution. Despite these features, the export capabilities are considered limited compared to Lightroom, which offers advanced options like watermarking and content credentials. Additionally, the Capture Live View feature allows for camera tethering with Canon and Sony cameras, enabling direct control over camera settings from within the application.

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While DaVinci Resolve's Photo page can perform many of the tasks associated with Lightroom, it does not yet match the full range of features offered by Adobe's software, particularly in terms of organization, exporting, and pixel-level editing. As such, professional photographers may prefer to continue using Lightroom. However, the new features are appealing for filmmakers and hobbyists who are already familiar with Resolve's grading tools. The software's recent launch suggests that further improvements are likely, and users are encouraged to try the free version to assess its suitability for their needs.

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DaVinci Resolve 21 positions itself as a strong alternative to Lightroom, particularly for users who also engage in video editing. Its combination of powerful editing tools and user-friendly features may attract those dissatisfied with Adobe's subscription model. As the software continues to evolve, it may increasingly appeal to a broader audience in the photography community.

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• “Resolve’s system for doing this via “stills” that show your grade is more visual and powerful than the one in Lightroom.” — Steve Dent, Engadget

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• “For now, the Photo page is ideal for filmmakers who dabble in photo editing, along with hobbyists and power users familiar with Resolve’s formidable grading tools.” — Steve Dent, Engadget

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• “If you’re on the fence, download the free version and see if it works for you.” — Steve Dent, Engadget

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