Is Neo a High-End Portrait Editor?

Education

Introduction

Introduction

Last week, I explored Luminar Neo's impressive capabilities, a photo editing software by Skylum Software. They are launching a new application called AER, designed specifically for portrait editing using advanced AI techniques. In this article, I'll demonstrate the portrait editing tools already available in Luminar Neo, which may leave you questioning if you even need AER.

Luminar Neo

Skin AI Tool in Luminar Neo

We're kicking things off with this captivating Adobe Stock image of a woman with no makeup. I love using this example to showcase the portrait editing tools in Luminar Neo.

Initial Adjustments:

  1. Open the image and head over to the Edit panel.
  2. Start with the Develop tool to make the image slightly flatter. Reduce highlights and open up the shadows.
  3. For significant blemishes, I recommend using the Erase tool before diving into any AI tools.

Skin AI:

  1. Navigate to the 'Skin AI' tool in the Portrait section, where you'll find two sliders and a checkbox for skin defect removal.
  2. Adjust the amount slider to smooth out the skin without blurring it, maintaining the appearance of natural pores.
  3. Use the Shine Removal slider to minimize any shiny areas on the skin.

Here's the before and after effect of the 'Skin AI' tool:

  • Before: Before
  • After: After

Face AI Tool in Luminar Neo

Next, we will employ the 'Face AI' tool, which offers several sections for detailed adjustments:

  1. Face Light: Brightens up the face, usually proving essential.
  2. Slim Face: Not typically used unless correcting lens distortion.
  3. Eyes Section: Enhances different parts of the eyes, including enlarging the eyes, iris enhancement, and dark circle removal.
  4. Mouth Section: Adjusts lip saturation, redness, darkening, and teeth whitening.

After implementing the 'Face AI' tool, here's the comparison:

  • Before: Before
  • After: After

Other Tools in Luminar Neo

  • Body AI: Alters the subject's body shape and abdomen, usually reserved for high-end ads.
  • High Key: Brightens the image for a high-key effect.
  • Studio Light: Customizes the background light for different effects, adding more depth and creativity.
  • Portrait Bokeh: Blurs the background intelligently, emphasizing the subject.

Example with a Male Subject

Using an image of my son Joe, I demonstrate that Luminar Neo’s portrait tools work just as effectively on male subjects. Here's a look at how the 'Skin AI' and 'Face AI' tools transformed the image.

Conclusion

The built-in portrait tools in Luminar Neo are incredibly effective. For most casual and semi-professional photographers, Luminar Neo might be all you need. However, if your work frequently involves portrait photography, you might want to consider exploring AER.

For those interested in securing a lifetime license for AER, check out the link in the description of the original video.

Keywords

  • Luminar Neo
  • Skylum Software
  • AER
  • Portrait Editing
  • Advanced AI Techniques
  • Skin AI
  • Face AI
  • Body AI
  • High Key
  • Studio Light
  • Portrait Bokeh

FAQ

  1. What is Luminar Neo?

    • Luminar Neo is photo editing software by Skylum Software, equipped with advanced AI tools for various editing needs.

  2. What is AER by Skylum Software?

    • AER is a new application focused solely on portrait editing, utilizing advanced AI techniques.

  3. What tools does Luminar Neo offer for portrait editing?

    • Luminar Neo has several AI-driven tools: Skin AI, Face AI, Body AI, High Key, Studio Light, and Portrait Bokeh.

  4. Is Luminar Neo sufficient for portrait editing?

    • For most casual and semi-professional use, the built-in tools in Luminar Neo are highly effective.

  5. Can Luminar Neo fix flyaway hair and blood vessels in the eyes?

    • Neo currently lacks features to fix flyaway hair, and while it has some tools for eye enhancement, it doesn’t effectively remove blood vessels. These issues might be addressed in the upcoming AER software.