Method
Selects the motion estimation algorithm.
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Motion VectorsAdvanced
OpticalFlow
Motion-vector analysis between frames
Analyzes pixel movement over time and generates motion-vector information for retiming, interpolation, vector blur and deformation workflows.
OpticalFlow
DaVinci Resolve · Fusion
OpticalFlow estimates where image details move between neighboring frames. The resulting vector field can feed temporal or vector-based tools rather than forcing those tools to infer motion from color alone.
Overview
What OpticalFlow does
OpticalFlow estimates where image details move between neighboring frames. The resulting vector field can feed temporal or vector-based tools rather than forcing those tools to infer motion from color alone.
Mental model
Think of OpticalFlow as converting visible motion into arrows: each region gets a direction and magnitude that downstream nodes can use.
Common uses
Prepare vectors for retiming
Drive VectorMotionBlur
Build warp maps
Support SmoothMotion
Inspect movement for technical effects
Create vector-based transitions
Flow anatomy
Inputs & outputs
The port structure shows how this node fits into a Fusion graph.
Image Input
Source image for the operation.
OpticalFlow
Fusion node
Image / Vector Output
The processed result from this node.
Inspector
Important parameters
Start with these controls before reaching for more complicated workarounds.
Method: Classic
Uses Classic for method.
Method: Advanced
Uses Advanced for method.
Warp Count
Controls repeated warping passes during vector estimation.
Iteration Count
Controls refinement iterations.
Smoothness
Balances detailed local motion against a smoother field.
Half Resolution
Speeds analysis by estimating at reduced resolution.
Output Vectors as Layers
Stores vector data in layers for compatible downstream tools.
Advanced
Enables more detailed quality controls.
Settings
Standard Fusion node settings for processing, masks, blending and animation.
Practical setup
A reliable workflow
- 1
Use a representative motion-heavy section.
- 2
Choose Classic for speed or Advanced for difficult shots.
- 3
Keep iteration/warp values modest at first.
- 4
Inspect the field with VectorVisualization.
- 5
Feed the vectors into the required temporal or distortion node.
Typical node chain
Frames→
OpticalFlow→
Motion vectors
Examples
Where this node fits in real work
Vector motion blur
Generate motion vectors and use them for directional blur.
MediaInOpticalFlowVectorMotionBlurMediaOut
Technical warp
Analyze motion, inspect it, then build a controlled vector warp.
MediaInOpticalFlowVectorVisualizationVectorWarp
Troubleshooting
Common mistakes
Increasing iterations without improving bad source detail
Using vectors through hard cuts
Ignoring occlusions and newly revealed areas
Assuming every noisy vector can be fixed by more smoothing
Production notes
Practical tips
Inspect vectors before using them.
Hard cuts and flashes often need separate treatment.
Use Advanced only where the extra compute actually improves the shot.
Related nodes