Not many people will use this feature in DaVinci Resolve often, but it’s handy to know it exists. You can import Photoshop PSD files into DaVinci Resolve and split them into their original layers for detailed editing and animation. This functionality works not only with files created in Adobe Photoshop but also with PSD files exported from other design programs like Affinity, provided the layers are properly preserved when saved.
Takeaways:
- Can you import PSD files from Photoshop and other programs into Davinci Resolve?
- Learn how to use PSD files with full layer support in Davinci Resolve.
Table of Contents
How to Import a Photoshop PSD File as Layers in DaVinci Resolve 20
Start by making sure your PSD files are ready to use. The files can come from Photoshop or another application that supports PSD export. The key requirement is that the layers are preserved when the file is saved. Disabled or hidden layers can also be included if they were saved in the file.
Open DaVinci Resolve and import your media as you normally would. You can do this by using the Media Pool and selecting Import Media, or by dragging the PSD files directly from your desktop into the Media Pool. Once imported, the PSD files will appear as image assets with no errors or warnings.
Drag the PSD file from the Media Pool onto your timeline. At this stage, the file behaves like a standard image clip. You can extend or shorten its duration, reposition it, scale it, or apply any usual image transforms. Nothing special needs to be done at this point.
With the PSD clip placed on the timeline, right-click on it. At the very top of the context menu, select the option labelled Split PSD Layers in Place. DaVinci Resolve will immediately separate the PSD into its original layers and place them on the timeline, stacked in the correct order.
Once the PSD is split, each layer becomes its own individual clip. This includes layers that were disabled or hidden in the original design file. You can delete any layers you do not need, such as unused backgrounds or hidden elements. You can also rearrange layers on the timeline, enable or disable them, and rename them if needed for clarity.
With each layer now separated, you have full control over every element in the design. Text, logos, backgrounds, and images can be edited independently. You can animate elements, apply effects, adjust transforms, or keyframe movement and opacity. This makes PSD files extremely powerful for motion graphics, titles, and compositing work directly inside Resolve.
Continue editing as required, treating each PSD layer like any other clip in your project. You can combine this workflow with Fusion, colour grading, or additional video elements to build complex compositions.
