Adobe Lightroom is a very popular photo management app. One of the key features is that it integrates photo management with image processing functionality. But Lightroom isn’t everyone’s favourite. Some may think the price is a bit steep or don’t like the subscription model – others may find that it is missing key features they want. So, for those of you looking for something else. here’s a list of great Lightroom alternatives.
Capture One Pro 20
Capture One Pro 20, available here, is focussed on high-end rendering and comes with a very high-quality image processor. Other important features include an integrated asset management feature and useful workflow features such as customisable hotkeys.
Capture One is quite expensive, more so than Lightroom, starting at €220 (roughly US$240) for an annual subscription or €349 (roughly US$380) for a lifetime licence. Just be aware, the lifetime licence will need paid upgrades to the newest versions. Cheaper editions are available for users only using Fujifilm or Sony Cameras.
A free 30-day trial is available that doesn’t require a credit card. So, give it a try if the price is making you hesitate, you may decide it’s worth it.
Skylum Luminar 4
Skylum Luminar 4, available here, has a number of AI-based image manipulation tools such as the “AI Augmented Sky”, “AI Sky Replacement” and “AI Skin Enhancer” tools. Simplified image manipulation and enhancement is a key focus of Luminar.
Luminar only offers one-time purchase options, starting from €114 (roughly $124) which includes a set of 25 skies that can be used with the AI Sky Replacement tool. A single purchase comes with two licences, so a user can install the app on two devices at once.
A free trial version is available if you wish to test out the Luminar before you buy it.
Corel AfterShot Pro 3
Corel Aftershot Pro 3, available here, touts itself as up to four times faster than Lightroom in RAW image scanning, importing of images to the catalogue and batch processing of RAW images to the Jpeg format. Aftershot’s feature comparison with Lightroom shows that they have a very similar offering, with only a few extra and missing features on both sides.
Performance and price are Aftershot’s key points. A licence is available for a one-time fee of US$79.99. A free 30-day trial is available.
Zoner Photo Studio X
Zoner Photo Studio X, available here, has a broad and growing feature set covering photo editing and manipulation, organisational and management functions, and image publishing. The feature comparison of Photo Studio X to the previous major versions, show that Zoner has put serious developmental work into features, and is continuing to add more.
An annual or monthly licence cost US$49 and US$4.99 respectively, making this the cheapest short-term option. A free 30-day trial is available.
