What level of DaVinci Resolve expertise do I need for typical marketing videos versus more complex corporate content?
Basic marketing videos need intermediate skills - solid editing, simple color correction, and graphics integration. Complex corporate content requires advanced expertise in color grading, multi-camera workflows, and professional delivery standards. The difference is substantial in terms of technical knowledge and time investment.
How can I tell if a candidate actually knows DaVinci Resolve well versus just listing it on their resume?
Ask them to describe their node tree approach for color grading, how they organize bins and timelines for large projects, or their workflow between different pages. Real users will mention specific features like the Cut page for quick edits, compound clips, or Fairlight for audio mixing.
Can DaVinci Resolve handle everything my video team needs, or will we still need other software?
DaVinci Resolve covers 90% of professional video needs - editing, color, VFX, and audio. You might still need specialized tools for advanced motion graphics (Cinema 4D), specific audio work (Pro Tools), or collaborative review (Frame.io), but it eliminates the need for multiple editing applications.
How well does DaVinci Resolve work with our existing tools like Adobe Creative Suite or project management software?
DaVinci Resolve integrates well with Adobe After Effects and Photoshop through standard file formats. It connects with collaboration tools like Frame.io, Dropbox, and Slack. However, it's not as tightly integrated with Adobe's ecosystem as Premiere Pro would be.
How long does it typically take to set up DaVinci Resolve workflows or migrate from another editing platform?
Basic setup takes 1-2 weeks for an experienced editor. Full workflow optimization with custom settings, templates, and team collaboration features typically requires 4-6 weeks. Migration projects depend on the volume of existing content but usually take 2-4 weeks for proper organization and conversion.
What kind of ongoing support or maintenance does DaVinci Resolve require after initial setup?
DaVinci Resolve needs regular database maintenance, project archiving, and periodic updates. Expect monthly maintenance tasks and quarterly major updates that may require workflow adjustments. Complex collaborative setups need ongoing user management and storage optimization.
