Skylum

Skylum (formerly Macphun) is a Ukrainian software development company primarily known for its innovative AI-powered photo editing software, most notably Luminar Neo and Aurora HDR.

Here's a breakdown of what Skylum is all about:

1. Focus on AI-powered Photo Editing: Skylum distinguishes itself by heavily integrating artificial intelligence into its photo editing tools. This allows for automated and simplified complex tasks, making advanced photo manipulation accessible to both amateur and professional photographers.

2. Key Products:

• Luminar Neo: This is Skylum's flagship product. It's a comprehensive photo editor for macOS and Windows that features a modular engine for faster processing and a wide array of AI-powered tools. Some prominent features include:
  • Sky AI: Seamlessly replaces skies in photos, even accounting for water reflections.
  • Relight AI: Adjusts lighting and exposure based on a 3D map of the image.
  • Face AI & Skin AI: Enhance facial features and provide natural skin retouching.
  • Structure AI: Adds detail and clarity while preserving natural elements.
  • Accent AI: A single slider that intelligently adjusts multiple controls like shadows, highlights, contrast, and saturation.
  • Generative AI tools: Includes features like GenErase, GenExpand, and GenSwap for content-aware removal, expansion, and replacement.
  • Other features: HDR Merge, Noiseless AI, Supersharp AI, Upscale AI, Panorama Stitching, Object Select AI, Color Transfer, Atmosphere AI, and a variety of creative filters and presets.
  • It can be used as a standalone application or as a plugin for Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
• Aurora HDR: Known for its capabilities in creating stunning High Dynamic Range (HDR) images.

3. Company History and Philosophy:

• Founded in 2008 as Macphun by Dmitry Sytnik and Paul Muzok, initially developing iOS applications.
• Transitioned into photo editing software for macOS in the early 2010s.
• Changed its name to Skylum in 2017 when it expanded its software (Luminar and Aurora HDR) to Windows.
• Their mission is to make photo editing an inspiring and effortless experience for millions of photographers worldwide, emphasizing creativity, accessibility, and user-centric design.
• Skylum also hosts "Luminar Adventures," exclusive photo excursions around the world where participants learn photography and editing techniques.

4. Awards and Recognition: Skylum products have received numerous awards, including multiple Digital Camera Grand Prix awards and TIPA World Awards for Best Imaging Software.

In essence, Skylum aims to disrupt traditional photo editing by leveraging AI to streamline workflows and empower photographers with powerful, yet easy-to-use tools.