Getting Started with Subtitles and Captions

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Davinci Resolve 2026 offers powerful tools for adding subtitles and captions to your videos, enhancing accessibility and viewer engagement. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your videos are professional and compliant with accessibility standards.

Getting Started with Subtitles and Captions

Before you begin, make sure your project is open and you have the video clip ready in the timeline. Having a script or transcript prepared will streamline the process of creating accurate subtitles and captions.

Adding Subtitles in Davinci Resolve 2026

Follow these steps to add subtitles to your video:

  • Open the Subtitle Panel: Navigate to the ‘Subtitle’ workspace by clicking on the workspace menu and selecting ‘Subtitles.’
  • Create a New Subtitle Track: Click the ‘+’ icon to add a new subtitle track to your timeline.
  • Add Subtitle Clips: Position the playhead where you want a subtitle to appear, then click the ‘Add Subtitle’ button.
  • Enter Subtitle Text: Double-click the subtitle clip to open the text editor, then type your subtitle.
  • Adjust Timing: Drag the edges of the subtitle clip to synchronize it with the audio.
  • Style Your Subtitles: Use the inspector panel to customize font, size, color, and position.

Adding Captions for Accessibility

Captions are essential for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing. The process is similar to adding subtitles but emphasizes accuracy and timing.

  • Import Caption Files: You can import existing caption files such as SRT or VTT by selecting ‘File’ > ‘Import’ > ‘Captions.’
  • Create Captions Manually: Use the ‘Add Caption’ button to create new caption clips directly in the timeline.
  • Edit Caption Text: Double-click each caption to enter or modify the text.
  • Sync with Audio: Adjust the start and end points to match the spoken words accurately.
  • Review and Export: Play your video to review caption timing and appearance before exporting.

Exporting Videos with Subtitles and Captions

Once your subtitles and captions are in place, you can export your video with embedded or separate subtitle files.

  • Embed Subtitles: In the export settings, select the option to embed subtitles directly into the video file.
  • Export as Separate Files: Choose to export subtitles as a separate SRT or VTT file for flexibility.
  • Finalize Export: Confirm your settings and click ‘Add to Render Queue,’ then start the rendering process.

Adding subtitles and captions in Davinci Resolve 2026 enhances your video’s accessibility and professionalism. With these simple steps, you can ensure your content reaches a wider audience effectively.