Auto Scene Cut Detection in DaVinci Resolve

Auto Scene Cut Detection is an AI-powered tool in DaVinci Resolve that automatically detects scene changes in a video. It analyzes the video frame-by-frame, identifying sudden changes based on pixel contrast differences between adjacent frames. When a significant difference is detected, the software inserts a cut point, making it easier to split long videos into individual shots.

How to Automatically Cut a Video in DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve offers two methods for automatic scene detection:

1. Scene Cut Detection in the Media Page (before importing media)
2. Detect Scene Cuts in the Cut Page or Edit Page (for imported media)

Both methods function similarly, but the key difference is:

Feature	Scene Cut Detection	Detect Scene Cuts
Location	Media Page	Cut Page & Edit Page
Usage	Used before importing media	Used after media is imported
Control	Allows manual adjustment of cut points after scanning	Automatically applies cut points to the timeline without a preview

How to Use Auto Scene Cut Detection

Method 1: Scene Cut Detection (Media Page)

Use this method when importing new media into your project.

1. Open DaVinci Resolve and go to the Media Page.
2. Locate the video file you want to import.
3. Right-click the file and select Scene Cut Detection.
4. The software will analyze the video and suggest cut points.
5. Manually review and adjust cut points if needed.
6. Click Add Cuts to Media Pool to finalize.

Method 2: Detect Scene Cuts (Cut Page or Edit Page)

Use this method for media that is already imported into your timeline.

1. Open the Cut Page or Edit Page.
2. Select the timeline containing the video.
3. Click on Timeline > Detect Scene Cuts.
4. The tool will automatically add cut points to the timeline.
5. Review the cuts and refine as needed.

Real-World Application of Scene Cut Detection

Auto Scene Cut Detection is widely used in:

• Editing old or compiled footage that needs to be split into individual scenes.
• Analyzing films for study purposes, helping filmmakers break down shots and transitions.
• Automated ad placement on platforms like YouTube, where AI detects natural cut points for ad insertions.

Exercise: Improve Your Editing Skills with Scene Cut Detection

To better understand shot composition and editing techniques, try this exercise:

1. Select a 5-10 minute film scene or music video.
2. Use Auto Scene Cut Detection to break it into individual cuts.
3. Analyze each shot’s framing, angles, and transitions.
4. Observe how different cuts affect the pacing and emotional feel of the scene.

This practice helps in understanding shot planning and can improve your storytelling in filmmaking.

Conclusion

Auto Scene Cut Detection in DaVinci Resolve is a powerful feature that simplifies the editing process by automatically identifying scene changes. Whether you’re editing long-form content, studying film techniques, or preparing media for further refinement, this tool saves time and enhances efficiency.