Adobe is introducing generative AI models for professional photographers and designers, while another company is striving to provide user-friendly generative AI tools to a broader audience of photographers, including hobbyists.
Today, Luminar Neo, the photo-editing software by Skylum (formerly Macphun), is launching a range of generative AI features in its desktop apps for Mac and Windows. These features enable users to eliminate unwanted objects from their images, extend the canvas, or insert and replace specific elements in a photo.
Luminar Neo offers Generative AI Tools for Amateur Photographers
The tools resemble Google Photos’ Magic Editor and Magic Eraser, as well as Adobe’s Generative Fill tool, in some ways. Unlike Adobe’s Generative Fill, Luminar Neo has two tools, GenErase and GenSwap, and doesn’t need a text prompt field. Instead, users select an area on the image to remove and click “Erase.” However, it doesn’t provide result options to choose from; users must click the “Erase” button again for a different outcome.
Paul Muzok and Dima Sytnik, game developers and amateur photographers, established Macphun in 2008. The company, now named Skylum, initially concentrated on iOS applications, including Vintage Video Maker, which Apple acknowledged as one of the best apps of 2009.
The team developed about 60 iOS apps in the years that followed, but they always had a passion for photography. This passion eventually led them to release their first Mac app, FX Photo Studio Pro, in 2010, which reached over 50 million downloads. On Mac, they also introduced other image editing apps like Snapheal, Intensify, Tonality, Noiseless, and Auora HDR. Later, they combined several apps to create the Creative Kit. In 2016, they introduced the photo editing software Luminar. In 2018, as they rebranded to Skylum, the team shifted their focus solely to the Luminar project.
Luminar aimed to create user-friendly desktop photo editing software, allowing users to complete intricate tasks effortlessly. The most recent version, Luminar Neo, launched in 2022 and primarily serves hobbyist photographers, though some professionals also use it as a plugin for Lightroom or Photoshop. The company reports that commercial photographers, for instance, use Luminar Neo in this way.
The team recognized the potential of generative AI models for simplifying photo editing and decided to integrate this
Luminar Neo: Powerful AI-Driven Photo Editing Software with Affordable Pricing and User-Friendly Interface”
Luminar Neo represents the latest generation of photo editing software, incorporating approximately 40 advanced AI models in its architecture, making it genuinely powerful. Kutanin, the spokesperson, emphasizes our reputation for user-friendliness and ease of use, especially for beginners. As a significant portion of our user base consists of photography enthusiasts, we dedicated our efforts to designing a user interface that is as enjoyable and up-to-date as possible.
The software provides various pricing options for both new and existing users. Starting from October 28, you can opt for a monthly plan at $14.95, an annual plan at $119, or a 2-year plan at $179. Alternatively, there’s a lifetime pass available for $299, which includes a “Creative Journey Pass” with time restrictions on the new generative AI features until August 16, 2024. Beyond that date, users will need to acquire a new Creative Journey Pass or transition to a subscription.
Current users can enjoy a more budget-friendly upgrade, with the 1-year plan commencing at $79 for the first year and then continuing at $99 per year, even after October 28. Additional discounts are accessible if purchased before October 28.
The company, which has maintained profitability for a few years and employs a team of over 120, has never sought external funding.
Check These Out
- Best Gifts for Dads – Best Gift for Kids | How to Create Holiday Gift Guides
- Neo Credit Card – Where is Neo Credit Card Accepted
- Everyday Projects Grant 2023 for Photographers – Up to $6,000 Grant
- Global Peace Photo Award 2023 for Global Photographers – Win Up to €10,000 Prize
- Google Is Working On a More User-Friendly Way to Find Files in Drive
- Realme GT Neo 3 Naruto Edition – Specs and Features
