App developers combine intuitive and touch-optimized operation with clean retouching and bring modern, professional-level image processing to the iPad.

(Image: Rudolf A. Blaha)

In the test: Apps for image editing and photo development with the iPad Photo development deluxe Image processing like on the desktop Individual meetings More apps for Photo and image processing Conclusion Test table Article in c’t 1 / 2021 read For a long time, mobile image processing was only suitable for rough drafts, because the earlier touch-optimized tools were not suitable for detailed work. In the meantime, high-resolution displays enable 63 – Bit architecture and the Apple Pencil apps with filigree user interfaces and functions that are on a par with the desktop models.

The adaptations of Affinity Photo and Photoshop CC implement classic image processing with layers, masks and setting layers on the iPad. You have some innovative concepts ahead of the desktop role models and could become their legacy in the long term. Serif has implemented a surprising number of functions from the desktop version in Affinity Photo. Adobe has yet to keep its promise to do something similar with Photoshop CC, but has a large part of the basic functions of the mother application on board in the first version. A cheap alternative is the layer-based image processing Pixelmator.

The second pillar of image processing are photo developers who primarily apply non-destructive settings for exposure and color changes to a photo with a set of controllers. Darkroom, Lightroom CC and Pixelmator Photo have to prove their strengths in the test. Affinity Photo has already integrated the photo developer. The Photos app supplied by Apple also contains a simple developer.

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