Getting Started: Installation and Setup

Welcome to your first step in mastering DaVinci Resolve! In this section, we'll guide you through the installation and initial setup of DaVinci Resolve so you can start your video editing journey with ease.

1. System Requirements

Before you download DaVinci Resolve, it's essential to ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements. Here’s what you need:

Minimum Requirements

- Operating System: Windows 10, macOS 10.14, or Linux - Processor: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 - RAM: 16 GB - GPU: 2 GB of VRAM - Storage: SSD recommended for the installation

Recommended Requirements

- Operating System: Windows 10, macOS 11, or Linux - Processor: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 - RAM: 32 GB or more - GPU: 4 GB of VRAM or more - Storage: NVMe SSD for best performance

2. Downloading DaVinci Resolve

To download DaVinci Resolve, follow these steps: 1. Visit the Official Website: Go to [Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve page](https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/). 2. Choose Your Version: You’ll find two versions available: DaVinci Resolve (free) and DaVinci Resolve Studio (paid). For beginners, the free version is usually sufficient. 3. Select Your Operating System: Click on the appropriate download button for your OS. 4. Fill Out the Form: Complete the required fields and click on the download link.

3. Installing DaVinci Resolve

Once the download is complete, follow the installation steps: - Windows: 1. Locate the downloaded .exe file and double-click it. 2. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. - macOS: 1. Open the downloaded .dmg file. 2. Drag the DaVinci Resolve icon to the Applications folder.

Example Installation Process (Windows)

`bash

Double-click the installer file

davinci-resolve-installer.exe

Follow the prompts in the installation wizard

done `

4. Initial Setup After Installation

After installing DaVinci Resolve, it’s time to set it up: 1. Launch the Application: Open DaVinci Resolve from your applications folder or desktop shortcut. 2. Create a New Project: When DaVinci Resolve opens, you'll see the Project Manager. Click on 'New Project', name your project, and click 'Create'. 3. Set Up Preferences: Go to 'DaVinci Resolve' > 'Preferences' to configure your settings: - User: Customize keyboard shortcuts and color settings. - System: Allocate memory and GPU settings for optimal performance.

Example Preferences Setup

- Set your timeline frame rate according to your video source (like 24 fps for cinematic films). - Adjust the cache settings to ensure smoother playback during editing.

5. Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve now installed DaVinci Resolve and completed the initial setup. You are ready to explore the powerful features of this video editing software. In the next topics, we will delve deeper into the interface and tools available to you.