Luminar Neo Review (2023): Price, Examples & More

Luminar Neo Editing Process Reviewed

I’ve been using the full version of Luminar Neo for a while now. Here are the main points to help you understand what this tool is all about and how you can benefit from it.

The Fast Single-Click Edits Make the Process Pleasant

As a photography enthusiast, I’m always looking for tools that can make my editing process easier and more efficient. I have to say that I’m impressed with its single-click, AI powered edits.

With just one click you are able to see an instant improvement in overall look and feel.

The best thing is that they they’re not just simple, one-dimensional filters. Usually, they’re complex edits that take into account different aspects of the photo, such as its color balance, exposure, and sharpness. And the best part is that I can always tweak the settings if I want to fine-tune the result.

There is Slow Loading for Some AI tools

I experienced slow loading for some of the AI tools I’ve been using. It may be my slow computer, but I don’t experience this issue on, for example, Adobe Lightroom. In Luminar Neo, AI tools can take a while to load, especially if I’m working with a high-resolution image.

Now, this is not a dealbreaker for me, as I understand that AI-powered tools require a lot of processing power. However, I do think that Luminar Neo could benefit from some optimization to make these tools load faster.

Simplicity is What Makes Luminar Neo Stand Out

There is no denying that almost everyone who lays their hands on Luminar Neo for the first time has used other photo editing software such as Photoshop or Lightroom before.

When you start using Neo, you can instantly feel that it has something different. I believe it’s the simplicity and ease of use. Most of the results are generated in seconds, no need to use tons of brushes and masks.

While that is a unique feature, it sometimes can prevent full-time photographers from achieving high-end results. That’s why professionals should get a free trial before purchasing the photo editor and see if the software can keep up with their photo editing level.

Luminar Neo Features & Photo Examples

As a person who’s been using this creative photo editor, I can say it was really uncomplicated to start using it since the tools are quite simple and easy to learn. 

The AI features are really powerful, and I always manage to transform my pictures with a few clicks.

Here are a few examples to showcase some features Luminar Neo has:

1. Layers

I’ve used the Sparkler layer that was included in the asset list. It immediately added a warm sunflare effect to the picture.

The good news is that you can add your own images and use them as layers.

2. Portrait AI Adjustments

The overall look of this portrait after the edits is immediately noticeable. 

All edits were made using Face and Skin AI tools.

You can see that the skin became brighter, more soft & smoother. And the 

I also added the Eyes AI effect, adding a clear brown color and glow.

3. Bokeh AI

This AI feature is very helpful for those who don’t have a portrait lens for the bokeh effect.

You just have to select the subject with a single click and choose the amount of bokeh you want to add.

Voila!

4. Noiseless AI Extension

The new Noiseless AI extension for Luminar Neo does a thrilling job of removing noise and restoring detail in dark images.

It might lag when loading if you edit large images and have a slow computer.

Other features

Image Relighting with AI

Luminar AI uses artificial intelligence to brighten up your dark images naturally.

For instance, you can make an evening image glow with the natural brightness of the day.

Remove Dust and Spots from Images

It’s normal to catch dirt, dust, and spots on your images, no matter how good of a camera you use.

Fortunately, you can do something about that in Luminar Neo. Using artificial intelligence, the software removes any unwanted spots on your images.

Remove Power Lines

This is a creative feature; you can remove any unwanted lines from your images with great detail using a brush.

For instance, it removes any unwanted power lines in your images.

Presets

Just like in Lightroom, you can use presets in Luminar Neo. You have the option to use the default presets included in the photo editor itself:

Or you can create your own.

Meaning you can save tons of time when editing large amounts of photos. What’s even more exciting is that we introduced Luminar Neo presets that you can download for free.

Editing History

The editing history feature is pretty useful in an image editor.

It lets you work with peace of mind and revert to a previous version of your photo at any time.

Manage Your Images with the Mobile App

Using the new phone app by Skylum, you can upload your phone snaps to your Luminar catalogue. After you’re done with the editing, transfer them back to your phone.

You can use the app on Android as well as Apple devices, however, as of yet, we can’t say anything else about it.

Precise Control

The company has worked with artists and photographers to come up with an image editor that lets its users control every aspect of an image.

The tool allows creative minds to make detailed tweaks to their images and come up with something new and exciting.

Powerful Performer

The new editing engine of the Luminar Neo makes it possible for you to apply multiple tools to a single image smoothly.

Moreover, you’d also be able to edit multiple raw images at a time in Luminar Neo without any significant performance loss.

How Much Does Luminar Neo Cost?

Luminar Neo lifetime access costs $259. Subscriptions cost $11.95/month when paid monthly, $99 paid yearly, or $149 paid every 2 years.

With all plans, you will also get access to the Extensions pack. If you own an older lifetime version of Luminar Neo, you can buy each extension for $49 separately or get the whole pack containing all extensions for $299.

I personally recommend going for lifetime access if you are considering Luminar Neo as a long-term investment.

Below you’ll find the main differences between each plan.