Analog Efex Pro is brilliant at analog/darkroom effects, while Color Efex Pro is a hugely powerful suite of filters for individual use or combined into 'recipes'. Nik Collection 4 (opens in new tab) consists of eight separate plug-ins which can also be used as standalone programs. The latest update brings support for Capture One's iPad edition (opens in new tab). Capture One’s raw processing is typically smoother and sharper than Adobe's too. One of the key differences is its layers-based local adjustment system which makes it much easier to see and edit your changes to your work, and this now includes 'parametric' linear and radial gradient masks which you can edit later. Capture One 2022 brings a new HDR merge feature – it works only on raw files but is extremely effective and natural looking – and a panorama merge feature too.Ĭapture One works in a single window rather than in Lightroom-style ‘modules’ and has a highly customizable set of ‘tool tabs’.

It works both as tethered capture and editing tool for studio photographers with a 'sessions' based workflow and as a Lightroom-style image cataloging, searching and non-destructive editing tool. However, they are by no means the ONLY choice – let's look at the best photo editing software below.Ĭapture One looks expensive compared to Lightroom, but its strength lies in the quality of its raw processing and editing tools, the power of its layer-based local adjustments and its appeal for professional workflows. Photoshop and Lightroom are at the top of our photo editing software list partly because they are very good, but also because they're still the default choice for so many enthusiasts and creative professionals. The best photo-editing laptops, desktop computers and monitors for photo editing can help you process images quickly and accurately, while the best external hard drives store your finished works safely. Remember, though, it's not just about the software. And for crazy AI-driven reality distortion (and some good portrait enhancement tools), Luminar AI might be the tool you need. If you want advanced black and white effects, retro/analog filters, HDR merging or one of dozen other specialized 'looks', you're often better off using a custom-made plug-in or a different application. Adobe's Photography Plan (opens in new tab), includes Photoshop and Lightroom, which cover a lot more ground between them – but there are still plenty of non-Adobe rivals that can match their scope. Today, there are more options than Photoshop – the one-time 'king' of photo editors.

Dxo photolab 4 vs capture one