How to add automatic subtitles & captions to DaVinci Resolve?

Jean-Marc
December 12, 2024

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DaVinci Resolve is a leading video editing software in the movies and TV production industry.

But does DaVinci Resolve offer automatic captioning? Can you import existing subtitle files? And how can you speed up the process with AI-powered tools?

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about subtitles in DaVinci Resolve

Does DaVinci Resolve Provide Auto Captions?

If you’re using DaVinci Resolve, you might be wondering if it offers automatic captioning capabilities.

The answer is yes, DaVinci Resolve includes a feature for auto captions, snce DaVinci Resolve Studio 18.5.

This functionality is powered by DaVinci Resolve’s integrated speech-to-text technology, which analyzes the audio in your video to create accurate transcriptions. From these transcriptions, you can easily generate subtitles.

DaVinci Resolve’s transcription tool is exclusive to Resolve Studio, the paid version of the software. For users of the free version, manual subtitling remains an option, or you can consider third-party tools to streamline the process. We'll talk about this alternative later in the article.

How to Generate Subtitles on DaVinci Resolve

Creating subtitles in DaVinci Resolve is a straightforward process when using its built-in tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to generating subtitles:

Step 1: Import Your Video and Prepare the Timeline

Start by opening your project or creating a new one in DaVinci Resolve. Import your video file by dragging it into the Media Pool. Once imported, drag the video onto the timeline to begin editing.

Step 2: Access the Transcription Tool (Studio Version)

If you’re using DaVinci Resolve Studio, navigate to the "Timeline" menu and select "Create Subtitles from Audio." Choose the audio track you want to transcribe. The software will begin analyzing the audio to generate a text transcript. This process typically takes only a few minutes, depending on the video’s length and audio complexity.

Step 3: Review and Edit the Transcript

Once the transcription is complete, the text will appear in the Subtitles panel. Carefully review the transcript for accuracy. You can make edits directly within the "Inspect" and "Caption" panel to correct any mistakes or refine the text. This step ensures that your subtitles are both precise and professionally formatted.

If necessary, fine-tune the timing of your subtitles by dragging the edges of the subtitle blocks in the timeline.

Step 4: Customize Subtitle Appearance

DaVinci Resolve allows you to customize the appearance of your subtitles. Select a subtitle block on the timeline, then use the "Inspector" panel to adjust the font, size, color, and position. This ensures your subtitles align with your video’s style and branding.

Step 5: Export the Subtitles

Once your subtitles are ready, you can export them in various formats like SRT, VTT, or embed them directly into the video. To do this, go to the "Deliver" tab, choose your export settings, and ensure subtitles are included in your final render.

Can you Generate DaVinci Subtitles for free ?

To generate subtitles for free in DaVinci Resolve, you can utilize the Auto-Subs plugin, which integrates OpenAI's Whisper model for automatic transcription directly within the software. Here's how to set it up:

1. Download and Install Auto-Subs:

  • Visit the Auto-Subs GitHub repository to download the installer compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
  • Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

2. Access Auto-Subs in DaVinci Resolve:

  • Open DaVinci Resolve and load your project.
  • Navigate to the top menu and select Workspace > Scripts > AutoSubs V2.

3. Generate Subtitles:

  • In the Auto-Subs interface, set the desired transcription settings.
  • Click on Generate Subtitles to initiate the transcription process.
  • Once completed, the subtitles will be added to your timeline, synchronized with your video's audio.

How to Import Subtitle and Transcription Files into DaVinci Resolve

settings checksub

DaVinci Resolve supports various file formats, allowing you to integrate pre-made subtitles easily. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare Your Subtitle File

Before importing, ensure your subtitle file is in a compatible format. DaVinci Resolve supports popular formats like SRT, VTT, and TXT. If your file is not in one of these formats, use a subtitle conversion tool to reformat it.

Open your project and navigate to the "Media Pool." Right-click within the Media Pool and select "Import Subtitles." Locate your subtitle file on your computer and click "Open." The file will be added as a new timeline element.

Step 2: Add Subtitles to the Timeline

Drag the imported subtitle file from the Media Pool onto your timeline. Place it above the video track. DaVinci Resolve will automatically align the subtitles based on the timing information included in the file.

Step 3: Customize Subtitle Appearance

Once the subtitles are in the timeline, you can customize their look. Select the subtitle track and open the "Inspector" panel. Adjust the font, size, color, and positioning to match your video’s style. This ensures that your subtitles are visually appealing and easy to read.

Step 4: Review and Adjust Timing

Review the subtitles to ensure they sync perfectly with the audio and visuals in your video. If adjustments are needed, drag the edges of the subtitle blocks in the timeline to refine their timing. This step is crucial for maintaining accuracy.

Step 5: Export Your Video with Subtitles

When you’re satisfied with the subtitles, export your video. Go to the "Deliver" tab, choose your preferred export settings, and ensure subtitles are included in the final render. You can embed the subtitles directly into the video or export them as a separate file.

How to Speed Up with an AI Subtitle Generator

For video creators who want to save time and boost efficiency, using an AI subtitle generator like Checksub can significantly accelerate the subtitling process. These tools complement DaVinci Resolve by providing automated transcription and subtitle creation that integrates seamlessly into your workflow.

Here’s how you can leverage AI subtitle generators for faster, more accurate results:

Step 1: Generate Automatic Subtitles

Start by logging into the AI subtitle generator platform, such as Checksub. Upload your video file to the platform, which supports various video formats. After uploading, select the original language of your video. If needed, you can also choose additional languages for translation.

The AI platform uses advanced speech recognition technology to transcribe the audio in your video. This process usually takes only a few minutes, depending on the video’s length and complexity. Once the transcription is complete, the platform will generate subtitle files with accurate timing.

Step 2: Edit and Refine Subtitles

After the AI generates the subtitles, review and refine them using the platform’s editor. You can split sentences, adjust timing, and correct any errors. This step ensures that the subtitles are polished and professional, ready for use in your project.

AI tools like Checksub allow you to customize the appearance of your subtitles. Modify font, size, color, and position to match the aesthetic of your video. This level of customization helps maintain consistency with your branding and style.

Step 3: Export Subtitles in a Compatible Format

Once satisfied with the subtitles, export them in a format compatible with DaVinci Resolve, such as SRT or VTT. Alternatively, you can export a video file with the subtitles embedded directly.

Import the exported subtitle file into DaVinci Resolve following the steps outlined in the previous section. Add the subtitles to your timeline and make any final adjustments as needed.

You want to speed up your subtitling process in DaVinci ? Try Checksub for free.

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