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If you're considering using Skylum's editing programs, you may be wondering which one to use between Luminar 4 and Luminar AI. For this guide, you're going to see the similarities and differences between Luminar AI vs Luminar 4 to know which can streamline your real estate
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Luminar 4 and Luminar AI are both powerful editing programs from Skylum that you can use on Windows and Mac. Before anything else, let's go over the basic information about these two.
Launched in December 2020, Luminar AI is Skylum's latest post-processing application, mainly using artificial intelligence. This AI-based editing software has a straightforward interface and simple editing tools that aim to make pro-level adjustments without spending too much time.
This AI tool lets you achieve Photoshop-like edits within a few minutes without the need to work on Photoshop layers, masks, or brushes.
Launched in November 2019, Luminar 4 is a stand-alone editing program that combines traditional post-processing and AI-powered functions. In addition, it offers a broader range of features that mainly cater to professional photo editors.
Similar to Lightroom, this program has a non-destructive editing system and photo management abilities.
For this section, I'm breaking down the similarities and differences to give you a better idea of what Luminar version to use.
These are among the essential similarities that make these two Luminar versions equally valuable.
Both versions of Luminar share the same functions and tools, allowing you to edit real estate photos seamlessly.
Perhaps the glaring disadvantage between the two is that the programs can't stitch pictures into a panorama or produce a bracketed HDR photo. However, you can do these functions when you avail of Aurora HDR, which is another Skylum program.
Both applications can work as plugins for Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. You can also use the AI version together with macOS Photos.
Luminar 4 and Luminar AI are both powerful photo editing applications. Knowing the differences between the two programs can help you better see which one to use for your editing needs.
The AI version uses Templates, while the fourth version features Looks that act as presets for instant processing. The former focuses solely provides basic editing, whereas the latter gives you more freedom to modify the edits.
More than that, both Luminar versions enable batch processing. In this way, you can quickly apply presets to enhance the look of multiple pictures within seconds.
Among the most noticeable differences between the two is that you can cull photos in Luminar 4 using stars and color ratings. Luminar AI only allows you to select pictures as favorites using set flags.
For casual editors and hobbyists, the set flags may be enough. However, for professionals who do rough culling, you may need additional ways to cull images.
What gives Luminar 4 a major bragging right is its ability to work on layers. This enables you to have diversified manual editing.
While Lightroom and Photoshop require a specific layer for targeted adjustments, Luminar 4 allows you to make as many adjustments as you want within a layer.
However, the AI version creates individual masks depending on the editing tool. This means you can still selectively apply color edits or edit contrast.
Both versions have tools that can correct portraits. However, the AI one has better accuracy in terms of defining facial features and applying edits on specific areas.
One of the best things about these Luminar editing programs is their minimalist interface. This is perfect for editors who feel like Photoshop looks too cluttered or distracting.
On both versions, you will see tabs such as Essentials, Creative, Portrait, and Professional. Despite that, the AI version wins this round because it has a more straightforward workplace interface than its counterpart.
For a single lifetime license, Luminar's fourth version costs $89, while the AI costs $79. You won't have to pay for yearly fees or subscription models.
Luminar AI uses artificial intelligence for basic yet faster photo editing, whereas Limunar 4 allows more control and customization for complex edits. The former has an intuitive and simple workspace, while the latter will mainly rely on your decisions.
Luminar 4 gears toward professionals who prefer a better culling and rating system, as well as the ability to edit in layers. In contrast, Luminar AI is perfect for those who want to spend less time editing and not overthink adjustments.
It's ideal to use Luminar AI if you're a novice editor who wants quick results. It lets you work on background replacement, color balance, and selective sharpening in less time. Consider using this Luminar version if:
It's much better to use Luminar 4 when you need more advanced editing functions. This is a good option if you need some help from AI, yet you still prefer having the final adjustments from you. Consider using this Luminar version if:
Luminar 4 is much better if you're a professional editor looking for more control in terms of culling options, file organization, and targeted editing. Meanwhile, Luminar AI has the upper hand if you only need basic-level editing and want to lessen time in post-processing.
The use of AI in photo editing can eliminate repetitive, manually intensive tasks. However, the quality and style would still heavily rely on your expertise. Either version can prove valuable to you, depending on how you utilize them.
Luminar AI doesn't include Luminar 4 because it's a different program altogether. You also can't migrate your catalogs between the two programs.
Luminar AI isn't an upgrade from Luminar 4 because they are completely different programs. You can think of it as an upgrade only if you want to prioritize AI-powered tools.
Luminar is much better than Lightroom if you need simple and quick editing. However, Lightroom is still the better option if you want customizations and complex edits.
Luminar 4 is better for professional editing, whereas the AI version may suit beginners. Make sure to weigh in on how much control you would want when editing real estate images. Ultimately, the best photo editing program depends on your needs and style.
