Filter vs Tool

Excerpt:

In our recent Photo Editor Showdown, we dove deep into the debate between creative filters and neutral tools. While filters like Luminar Neo’s AI sky swaps and Lightroom’s vibrant presets promised instant magic, we found that neutral tools like Capture One’s precise color grading and Affinity Photo’s raw processing offered a more nuanced approach. Surprisingly, we discovered that blending both—using filters for flair but harnessing neutral tools for balance— yielded the best results. Our tests revealed that the choice hinges less on the tool itself and more on the artist’s vision. Whether you crave bold transformation or subtle refinement, understanding when to pivot between filters and neutral tools is the key. Stay tuned as we unpack our full findings!