TL;DR:
- Luminar Neo, by Skylum, introduces user-friendly generative AI tools for photo editing.
- Two key features, GenErase and GenSwap, simplify object removal and element addition.
- Skylum’s journey from iOS apps to photography-focused software.
- Luminar Neo’s appeal to both hobbyists and some professional photographers.
- Plans to release three generative AI tools in 2023.
- Skylum’s proprietary technologies enhance image resolution and quality.
- Processing in the cloud prioritizes user privacy.
- Luminar Neo’s focus on an intuitive and enjoyable user experience.
- Pricing options for new and existing users.
- Skylum’s successful and profitable history without external funding.
Main AI News:
In the world of photography and image editing, accessibility and ease of use have taken center stage with the advent of generative AI tools. While Adobe caters to professional photographers and designers, another player, Skylum (formerly Macphun), has set its sights on bringing the power of generative AI to hobbyist photographers. Enter Luminar Neo, the photo-editing software that promises to revolutionize image editing for the masses.
Luminar Neo’s latest update introduces a range of generative AI features to its desktop apps for both Mac and Windows users. With these new tools, users can effortlessly remove unwanted elements from their images, expand their canvas, and seamlessly add or replace specific elements within their photos. What sets Luminar Neo apart from the competition is its commitment to user-friendly design and a two-pronged approach: GenErase and GenSwap, two powerful tools at your fingertips.
Unlike Adobe’s Generative Fill, Luminar Neo streamlines the process. There’s no need for text prompts; instead, users select the area they wish to remove and click “Erase.” The simplicity of the workflow is a testament to Skylum’s dedication to making complex tasks easy to achieve.
Skylum’s journey began in 2008 when game developers and amateur photographers Paul Muzok and Dima Sytnik founded Macphun. Initially, their focus was on iOS applications, such as the acclaimed Vintage Video Maker. Over the years, they developed around 60 iOS apps but harbored a growing passion for photography. In 2010, they launched FX Photo Studio Pro for Mac, amassing over 50 million downloads. Subsequently, they introduced other image editing apps like Snapheal, Intensify, Tonality, Noiseless, and Aurora HDR. These apps eventually merged into Creative Kit, paving the way for the birth of Luminar in 2016.
Luminar was envisioned as photo editing software that would empower desktop users to tackle intricate tasks effortlessly. Its latest iteration, Luminar Neo, was launched in 2022 and primarily caters to hobbyist photographers. However, even some professional photographers find utility in the application, often using it as a plugin for industry standards like Lightroom and Photoshop.
Source: Skylum
In response to the rising demand for generative AI in image editing, Skylum decided to incorporate these capabilities into Luminar Neo. The plan is ambitious: releasing one generative AI tool each month throughout 2023. The journey commences with GenErase on October 26, followed by GenSwap on November 16 and GenExpand on December 14. All three features are rooted in the same technology but offer diverse outcomes based on user preferences and parameters.
Skylum relies on Stable Diffusion for its models but also leverages its Upscale AI model and other proprietary technologies within a single pipeline. This approach elevates the resolution and quality of generated images, offering up to 1536×1536 in image resolution, surpassing the capabilities of Photoshop.
Notably, Luminar Neo’s processing occurs in the cloud, necessitating an internet connection. However, Skylum prioritizes user privacy by refraining from storing input or output images.
The real differentiator for Luminar Neo is its user-friendly interface and the sheer power of its 40 complex AI models. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, the software is designed to be intuitive and efficient. Ivan Kutanin, CEO of Skylum, highlights the company’s commitment to providing an enjoyable and fresh user experience.
In terms of pricing, Luminar Neo offers various tiers for new and existing users. Starting October 28, it’s available at $14.95 per month, $119 per year, or $179 for a 2-year subscription. For those seeking a lifetime pass, it’s priced at $299, including a “Creative Journey Pass” with access to generative AI features until August 16, 2024. After this date, users can opt for a new pass or switch to a subscription model.
Current users can upgrade at a slightly lower cost, with the 1-year plan starting at $79 for the first year and $99 per year thereafter, also effective from October 28. Discounts are available for early adopters.
It’s worth noting that Skylum’s success has been achieved without external funding, and the company has been profitable for several years. With a dedicated team of over 120 professionals, Skylum continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of photography and image editing, making advanced tools accessible to all.
Source: Skylum
Conclusion:
Luminar Neo’s introduction of user-friendly generative AI tools marks a significant step towards democratizing advanced photo editing capabilities. With its simplified interface and continuous innovation, it is poised to capture a substantial share of the market, appealing not only to hobbyist photographers but also to professionals seeking efficient and powerful editing solutions. Skylum’s commitment to user privacy, combined with competitive pricing options, positions Luminar Neo as a formidable contender in the image editing software market.
