What are you most excited about with Luminar AI?

I like the idea of Templates. I think it will be interesting to review alternative ‘baselines’ for an image to inspire me. The discovery aspect of viewing the outcome of an applied template and then being able to review and modify the individual adjustments behind it will be interesting.

Why did you choose to preorder Luminar AI?

I have used Skylum’s software for many years and have always liked the intuitive, outcome based aesthetic. I’m a bit of a geek and like to play with the latest technologies. Combining computer tech with photography also gives me an excuse to go outside in the fresh air once in a while.

Tell us a little about your photography and how you got started.

I got started in photography at around the time that Digital SLRs arrived on the scene. I am self taught and the accelerated learning of being able to see my mistakes instantly on an LCD screen helped a lot.

I tend to shoot mostly landscapes, combining travel with photography and I like to get out at dawn ahead of the crowds. I have shot many other genres of photography, including a few weddings.

What’s a tip you can give someone to get started with Luminar?

I recently posted that “A dramatic sky calls for a dramatic scene.” I would encourage Luminar users to create a library of skies that they can utilize in Luminar. Don’t be afraid to turn things on their head, shoot a sky and then find an image in your portfolio that compliment it.

Have fun. Luminar is designed to be outcome based so play with the features and explore to see where it takes you.

And if you are going to embrace Sky Replacement then two things are very important. First, use your own skies for a unique look. And two, pay attention to the direction of the light, we only have one sun here on Earth!