Transform AI Images: DaVinci Resolve 3D Animation Tutorial

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital artistry, artificial intelligence (AI) image generation has opened new doors for creative expression. However, these AI-generated images often remain static, lacking the dynamic depth and immersive qualities of a three-dimensional scene. This article explores a powerful technique to transform a static AI image into a dynamic and living 3D scene using DaVinci Resolve. Harnessing the capabilities of AI image generators like Midjourney and innovative tools like ZoeDepth, we'll guide you through a process that breathes life into your digital creations.

Generating the Initial AI Image

The first step in this transformative process involves creating a visually compelling AI image. While tools like Midjourney offer incredible results, they come with a subscription fee.

Fortunately, numerous free AI image generators are available online. These tools allow you to input text prompts, guiding the AI to generate unique and captivating images.

Whether you choose a paid service or a free alternative, experiment with different prompts and styles until you achieve an image that resonates with your artistic vision. For this example, I use Midjourney to create mountain range image with a sunrise.

Converting to 3D with ZoeDepth

Once you have a satisfactory image, the next step is to imbue it with a sense of depth. Here's where ZoeDepth comes in, a cutting-edge tool designed to convert 2D images into 3D meshes.

1. Navigate to the ZoeDepth website

   and go to the "Image to 3D" tab.

2. Drag and drop your AI image into the designated input area.
3. Enable the “Keep occlusion edges” option to preserve the image's structural integrity.
4. Submit your image and allow ZoeDepth to work its magic.

ZoeDepth analyzes the image, estimating depth and generating a 3D mesh representation. The output might appear somewhat strange at first glance , but it effectively creates a 3D illusion that can be further refined within DaVinci Resolve.

Once the 3D mesh reconstruction is complete, download the generated GLB file from the top right corner of the ZoeDepth interface.

GLB to FBX Conversion for DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve, while powerful, doesn't natively support GLB files. To overcome this limitation, a conversion step is necessary. The goal is to transform the GLB file into the more compatible FBX format.

1. Navigate to Aspose Products' GLB to FBX converter website
2. Upload your GLB file to the converter.
3. Select FBX as the desired output format.
4. Initiate the conversion process and download the resulting FBX file.

Now that your FBX file is ready, it’s time to import it into DaVinci Resolve and create your 3D world.

Evaluating Midjourney and Free AI Image Generators

Midjourney excels in generating high-resolution, detailed images with nuanced artistic styles. Its subscription model provides access to consistent performance and a wide range of creative options. However, for users on a tight budget, free AI image generators offer a viable alternative. While their output may lack the refinement of Midjourney's, they can still produce compelling images suitable for this technique. Exploring various free options is crucial to identify those that Align with your creative needs and aesthetic preferences. To ensure that your selected tool produces images that are useful for your animation, be sure to test their outputs.

Optimizing Your Prompts for Better 3D Conversion

Crafting effective prompts is paramount for successful AI image generation. A well-defined Prompt guides the AI to create an image that not only aligns with your vision but also lends itself well to 3D conversion. When creating your prompts:

• Specify Details: Provide detailed descriptions of the subject matter, lighting, and composition.
• Experiment with Styles: Explore different artistic styles (e.g., photorealistic, surreal, abstract) to achieve the desired aesthetic.
• Consider Depth Cues: Incorporate elements that naturally suggest depth, such as perspective lines, overlapping objects, and atmospheric haze.

By carefully optimizing your prompts, you can significantly enhance the quality and realism of the resulting 3D scene.

Troubleshooting Common Issues in DaVinci Resolve

Navigating DaVinci Resolve's Fusion tab can Present certain challenges, particularly for beginners.

• Hardware Renderer Issues: If you encounter rendering errors or performance issues, ensure that your graphics card drivers are up to date and that the Hardware Renderer is properly configured.
• Camera Movement Problems: Subtle camera movements are crucial for maintaining a realistic 3D illusion. Avoid abrupt or jerky motions, and experiment with different easing curves to achieve smoother animations.
• Mesh Artifacts: ZoeDepth's 3D mesh reconstruction may occasionally produce artifacts or distortions. Try adjusting the occlusion edges setting or refining the image with image editing software before conversion.

By addressing these common issues, you can streamline your workflow and achieve a more polished final result.

Importing and Setting Up Your Scene

With the FBX file prepped, it's time to dive into DaVinci Resolve's Fusion tab to construct the dynamic scene. DaVinci Resolve is a video editing software that supports a wide variety of video editing features.

1. Launch DaVinci Resolve.
2. Set your timeline to 60fps: Create a new project or open an existing one, and modify the Timeline Frame Rate to 60 frames per Second.
3. Add a Fusion Composition: Add Fusion composition to the timeline.
4. Navigate to the Fusion Tab: Select the Fusion composition in the timeline.
5. Import the FBX Scene

   : In the Fusion interface, navigate to Fusion > Import > FBX Scene, and load the converted FBX file.

DaVinci Resolve will import the 3D mesh generated from the AI image. Typically, this generates three nodes:

• Geometry: Contains the 3D mesh data.
• World: Defines the coordinate system for the scene.
• RootNode: The primary node that connects all scene elements.

Because these elements are in 3D, you’ll need to tell DaVinci Resolve to render in 3D, which you’ll do in the next step.

Rendering Your 3D Scene

With the mesh and scene set up, you need a Render 3D node to properly render the mesh data into something DaVinci Resolve can output.

1. Press Shift + Space and type “Rendered 3D” to add the node.
2. Connect the RootNode to the Rendered 3D node.
3. Connect the Rendered 3D node to the MediaOut.
4. Set Renderer to Hardware: Select the Rendered 3D node and adjust the Renderer Type from Software Renderer to Hardware Renderer in the Inspector.
5. Set the Y-axis to 180 degrees: Open the RootNode Inspector and set the Y-axis rotation to 180 degrees.

Animating Your Scene with Camera 3D

To create the dynamic feel, a camera is needed to add movement to the otherwise static image.

1. Add a Camera 3D node (Shift + Space).
2. Connect the Camera 3D node to the Merge 3D node.
3. Pull up the Merge 3D node display by clicking the left dot from the Merge 3D Node.
4. Add keyframes to the position.
5. Move forward in the timeline and adjust the Z value to zoom in, as well as adjust any other Relevant values to properly frame the video.

Adding Finishing Touches: Snow Overlay

To further enhance the atmosphere, an animated snow overlay effect was added to the scene. This helps sell the 3D effect.

1. Add the snow overlay to the timeline in the Edit panel.
2. Select snow overlay and under Composite Mode select Screen to apply the snow overlay.

Midjourney vs. Free AI Image Generators

The initial cost consideration revolves around selecting an AI Image Generator. Midjourney, a popular choice, offers high-quality results but requires a paid subscription. Free AI image generators present a budget-friendly alternative, though they may offer varying levels of image quality and customization.

Remember to consider these costs associated with this project when constructing your budget. The choice depends on your budget and desired level of creative control.