---
title: "How to Import XML into DaVinci Resolve"
author: "Alex Johnson"
category: Tutorials
excerpt: "A step-by-step guide on how to properly import XML files into DaVinci Resolve, including handling media linking and timeline settings."
image: "/cutsio-thumbnail.svg"
tags: "DaVinci Resolve, XML, Import, Workflow"
---

Importing an XML into DaVinci Resolve is a core part of moving a project from one editing software (like Final Cut Pro or Premiere Pro) to another. This is most commonly done when handing off a locked picture edit for professional color grading or audio mixing.

Here is exactly how to do it:

## 1. Prepare Your Media Pool (Optional but Recommended)
While Resolve can try to find your media automatically during import, the most reliable method is to import all your raw source footage into the Media Pool first. This ensures Resolve knows exactly where the high-resolution files are located.

## 2. Import the Timeline
1. Open your DaVinci Resolve project.
2. Go to the top menu and select **File > Import > Timeline...** (In older versions, this might be `File > Import > XML...`).
3. Navigate to the `.fcpxml` or `.xml` file you exported from your other NLE and click **Open**.

## 3. Configure Load Settings
A "Load XML" dialogue box will appear. The settings here are crucial:
*   **Automatically import source clips into media pool:** If you skipped Step 1, leave this checked. Resolve will try to locate the media based on the file paths in the XML. If you already imported your media in Step 1, **uncheck this**.
*   **Link to source camera files:** If you unchecked the box above, make sure this is checked. It tells Resolve to link the incoming timeline clips to the high-res footage already sitting in your Media Pool.
*   **Use sizing information:** Leave this checked if you want Resolve to retain any scaling, cropping, or positioning you did in your offline edit.

## 4. Review the Import Log
Click **OK**. Resolve will build your timeline. Immediately after, it will usually display a log window detailing any errors. Pay close attention to this! It will list clips that couldn't be found or effects (like complex third-party transitions) that didn't translate. You will need to fix these offline clips manually by right-clicking them in the Media Pool and selecting "Relink Selected Clips."

By following these steps, you ensure a clean handoff and a timeline ready for DaVinci Resolve's powerful color page.