Archive notice: This article was originally published on April 23, 2014. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
One thing right up front: according to Blackmagic, the new DaVinci Resolve 11 is expected to be available from June. It will be made available to DaVinci Resolve users as a free download on the Blackmagic Design website.
So there is not much longer to wait to enjoy the new features — Blackmagic speaks of an upgrade with more than 100 new editing and color correction functions. Further information at Blackmagic Design.
Here are the most important new features:
Blackmagic promises improvements for online editing as well as functions such as cloning files on set, photographer-friendly color correction tools and a new workflow that allows multiple users to work on the same timeline at the same time.
Editing
Version 11 features 70 new editing features. Editors receive support for two screens and tools such as dynamic JKL trimming, audio crossfades and keyboard shortcuts that users can freely customize for faster editing.
Because the trim tools are context-sensitive, DaVinci Resolve automatically “guesses”, based on the current mouse-pointer position, whether an editor wants to use the Ripple, Roll, Slip or Slide functions or extend or shorten the edit.
A new spline curve editor has been integrated into the editing timeline, placing keyframes directly beneath each clip and in context with that clip. Editors can also place and animate open FX plug-ins directly in the timeline and use plug-ins for transitions.
Collaborative Workflow
Editors and colorists can access the same timeline from different workstations. Because the timeline update is visible to all users, everyone can work on the same job simultaneously.
Improved Round-Trip Collaboration with Apple Final Cut Pro X
According to the manufacturer, this was achieved through increased compatibility with a larger number of features in both applications, so that projects can now be moved back and forth effortlessly.
Upgrade of the Color Correction Features
The new features are intended specifically to appeal to photographers who want to enter the field of filmmaking. Controls for RAW footage and color correction are planned. The new camera RAW palette includes improved recovery of highlights and shadow detail as well as functions for midtone detail, Color Boost, saturation, lift, gain and contrast. DaVinci Resolve 11 overcomes the limitations associated with photo optimization systems for individual images and in this way gives photographers more control over RAW footage. This allows optimal utilization of the dynamic range of the material in real time.
Clone Tool
DaVinci Resolve 11 can now create backup copies and store digital camera files. The new clone tool copies media drives, memory cards and camera packs to multiple destinations simultaneously—all directly on location. All copies are checked for completeness by checksum so that users receive pixel-accurate digital copies of their source media. The new clone tool is also included in the free DaVinci Resolve Lite software and can be installed on a laptop for work on set.
Color Chart Tool for Automatic Color Matching
The tool can be used with any type of footage, including video, RAW and even film. The new color-matching tool analyzes the footage using color charts and automatically creates a primary grade—even for footage shot under different lighting conditions with different exposures and color temperatures.
OpenCL Image Processing
This was further optimized, which means faster rendering with new Apple MacPro systems.
Here is another video from NextWaveDV’s in which Blackmagic’s Dan May present the new features in Resolve 11:
