Blackmagic Design has announced DaVinci Resolve 21, a major update that expands the app beyond video editing with a new Photo page and a wide range of AI-powered tools. The update is now available in public beta, introducing one of the biggest workflow shifts in Resolve’s history by bringing still image editing directly into the same environment used for color grading and post production.
At its core, DaVinci Resolve 21 positions itself as more than a video editor. With full photo editing support, including RAW workflows and non destructive adjustments, the software now overlaps with tools traditionally used by photographers. This change is backed by deeper AI integration across search, editing, and visual effects, making the update relevant for both editors and hybrid creators working across photo and video.
The new Photo page is the headline feature. It integrates directly with Resolve’s existing color grading pipeline, allowing users to apply tools like curves, qualifiers, power windows, and node based edits to still images. Edits are applied at original resolution, so image quality remains intact throughout the workflow. Users can also organize photos into albums, apply grades across entire collections, and use the LightBox view to preview edits in real time across multiple images.
Support for tethered shooting with Sony and Canon cameras adds another layer of utility. Photographers can capture images directly into Resolve, adjust settings like ISO and white balance, and build a consistent look before even leaving the shoot. Combined with LUT support and plug in compatibility, the Photo page turns Resolve into a fully capable image editing environment rather than a companion feature.
AI tools are a major focus in this release. IntelliSearch allows users to quickly find clips by identifying objects, spoken words, or even specific faces within footage. This makes large media libraries significantly easier to navigate. CineFocus introduces post capture focus control, letting editors shift focal points and simulate depth of field with adjustable bokeh effects.
Facial editing tools have also expanded. Users can adjust perceived age with the Face Age Transformer, reshape facial features, or remove blemishes while maintaining natural skin texture. These tools are designed for both subtle corrections and more advanced visual effects work.
For improving footage quality, UltraSharpen enhances clarity and can fix minor focus issues, while Motion Deblur reduces blur artifacts like streaking or softness. Together, these tools aim to salvage footage that would otherwise be unusable.
Beyond AI, Resolve 21 includes several workflow improvements. Keyframing now supports four point Bezier easing and multi clip adjustments. Fusion effects can be edited directly from the Cut and Edit pages, reducing the need to switch between workspaces. Text tools have been upgraded with multi language spell check, a font browser, emoji support, and character level styling.
The update also adds support for OGraf HTML graphics and Lottie animations, allowing motion assets to be imported as ready to use clips. The new MultiMaster trim manager enables editors to generate multiple HDR and SDR outputs from a single timeline, which is especially useful for cross platform delivery.
DaVinci Resolve 21 is currently available as a free public beta, with the full release expected later. As it stands, this update significantly broadens the scope of what Resolve can do, bringing photo editing, AI search, and advanced post production tools into a single workflow.
