Add Stunning Lens Flares to Your Videos in DaVinci Resolve (Easy Tutorial)

Updated at: 10/06/2025

Want to add a touch of Hollywood magic to your videos? Learn how to create stunning, realistic lens flares in DaVinci Resolve with this easy tutorial! We'll guide you through a simple, step-by-step process, using readily available tools within DaVinci Resolve's powerful suite. No plugins needed – just your creativity and a few clicks. Get ready to elevate your video editing game!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Project Setup

    • Open DaVinci Resolve and navigate to the Edit page.
    • Import your video footage.
    Import your video footage.
    Project Setup

  2. Adding the Lens Flare

    • Go to the Color page.
    • Find the Lens Flare effect in the Effects Library.
    • Drag and drop the Lens Flare effect onto your video node.

  3. Basic Lens Flare Adjustments

    • Choose a lens flare preset or customize the settings (position, scaling, color, etc.).
    • Adjust the 'Composite Type' (Add or Overlay) for desired blending.
    • Fine-tune the lens flare's position (X and Y) using the position controls.
    Fine-tune the lens flare's position (X and Y) using the position controls. Fine-tune the lens flare's position (X and Y) using the position controls.
    Basic Lens Flare Adjustments

  4. Refining the Flare's Appearance

    • Refine the lens flare's appearance using Global Corrections (scaling, anamorphic, lens center).
    • Adjust Defocus, Brightness, Saturation, and Colorizer to perfect the look.
    • Adjust the aperture blades for starburst effects.
    • Customize individual elements (glare, flare spot) for more control.
    Customize individual elements (glare, flare spot) for more control. Customize individual elements (glare, flare spot) for more control. Customize individual elements (glare, flare spot) for more control.
    Refining the Flare's Appearance

  5. Motion Tracking the Lens Flare

    • Use the tracker to add points for motion tracking, ensuring the lens flare follows the light source.
    Use the tracker to add points for motion tracking, ensuring the lens flare follows the light source.
    Motion Tracking the Lens Flare
[RelatedPost]

Tips

  • Experiment with different presets and settings to find the best look for your video.
  • Place tracking points in high-contrast areas for better tracking results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overusing Lens Flares

Reason: Too many lens flares can make your video look cheesy and unprofessional, distracting from the main subject.
Solution: Use lens flares sparingly and only when they enhance the mood or storytelling.

2. Poor Flare Placement and Timing

Reason: A poorly placed or timed flare can look unnatural and jarring, pulling the viewer out of the scene.
Solution: Carefully consider the composition and timing of your flares to ensure they integrate seamlessly into the shot.

FAQs

Can I use this technique with any video footage?
Yes! This method works with virtually any footage. The effect's visibility will depend on the brightness and contrast of your source video, but the technique itself is universally applicable.
What if my lens flare looks unnatural or too intense?
Adjust the opacity of the flare layer, tweak the blend mode (try 'Screen' or 'Add'), and experiment with the size and position of the flare. Subtlety often looks more realistic. You can also reduce the overall brightness of the flare to make it appear more natural.