DaVinci Resolve 21 Adds Photo Editing to Its Toolkit

Blackmagic Design is pushing DaVinci Resolve beyond its video roots with the release of Resolve 21, introducing a new Photo page that brings still image editing directly into the app.

With this update, Resolve is starting to look more like an all-in-one creative suite, combining video editing, color grading, VFX, audio, and now photography tools in a single workflow.

A New Photo Page for Still Images

The headline feature in Resolve 21 is the new Photo page, which allows users to import, organize, and edit still images alongside video projects.

Blackmagic says the interface is designed to be approachable for new users while still offering the depth professionals expect. The Photo page also ties directly into Resolve’s Color page, meaning users can apply node-based grading to still images.

It supports RAW photo editing and non-destructive adjustments like cropping and reframing, along with compatibility for Resolve FX and OpenFX plugins. Users can also apply LUTs from video projects to images, making it easier to match photos with footage.

AI Tools Expand Across Photo and Video

Resolve 21 leans heavily into AI-powered features. Tools like AI Magic Mask can quickly isolate subjects with minimal input, while manual controls are still available for fine-tuning.

There’s also AI UltraSharpen, which can enhance detail and upscale lower-resolution content, and AI Motion Deblur, designed to reduce blur artifacts in both photos and video.

For portrait work, new tools like AI Face Age Transformer, AI Face Reshaper, and AI Blemish Removal allow users to adjust facial features or clean up skin while preserving natural texture.

Improved Organization and Workflow

A new Lightbox view makes it easier to browse and organize photo libraries, with support for filters, ratings, flags, and color labels. Users can group images into albums based on metadata like date or camera model.

Resolve 21 also supports importing Lightroom catalogs, which could make it easier for photographers to transition or integrate existing workflows.

For supported Sony and Canon cameras, the update adds tethered shooting, allowing users to capture images directly into Resolve and adjust camera settings such as ISO and white balance from within the app.

Updates for Video Editors Too

On the video side, Resolve 21 introduces IntelliSearch, an AI-powered tool that can analyze media and help users find clips based on objects or dialogue.

Other additions include text-to-speech tools for generating voiceovers and AI CineFocus, which simulates depth of field by letting users adjust focus and aperture settings after the fact. The feature can be keyframed, making it possible to create rack focus effects in post.

Pricing and Availability

DaVinci Resolve 21 is currently available as a public beta. The software continues to offer a free version, with the full Studio version priced at $295.