About Nik HDR Efex
A photo editing tool for creating High Dynamic Range (HDR) images by blending multiple exposures or tone mapping a single image. It features presets and local adjustments with U Point™ technology.
Nik HDR Efex is a specialized tool for creating High Dynamic Range (HDR) photographs, developed by DxO. It is not sold as a standalone product but as one of seven plugins in the Nik Collection suite. The software excels at merging multiple bracketed exposures to reveal detail in both shadows and highlights, but can also apply a convincing HDR tone-mapped look to a single image. Its key feature is U Point™ technology, which allows for precise, intuitive local adjustments to brightness, contrast, and saturation without creating complex masks. The latest version also incorporates AI-powered masking for even faster selections. Nik HDR Efex can be used as a standalone application or as a plugin for popular host software like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, and Affinity Photo, providing a flexible workflow for photographers. The full Nik Collection is available for a one-time purchase, with a 30-day free trial offered.
Pros & Cons
- Creates HDR effects from either a single image or multiple bracketed exposures.
- U Point™ technology allows for precise, mask-free local adjustments.
- Integrates as a plugin with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, and Affinity Photo.
- A 30-day fully functional free trial is available for the entire Nik Collection suite.
- Cannot be purchased individually; must be bought as part of the full Nik Collection suite.
- Primarily designed as a plugin, requiring host software for the most integrated workflow.
Features
Key features
Effortlessly blends multiple images with different exposures to balance extreme shadows and highlights.
Creates an HDR effect from a single image by expanding its dynamic range, useful when bracketed shots are not available.
Precisely fine-tunes exposure, contrast, and other parameters on specific parts of an image without complex masks.
Creates smart, pixel-perfect selections based on subject matter or distance from the camera for targeted edits.
Provides a wide range of built-in presets as a starting point, which can be tweaked to create a unique look.
Functions as a plugin for host software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, or as a standalone application.
Additional features
Automates the computational calculations required to stitch varying exposure levels into a single balanced image.
Facilitates quick, natural-looking localized edits without the complexity of traditional manual selection tools.
Isolates specific foreground or background zones for editing according to physical spatial depth.
Analyzes photo elements intelligently to deploy sharp, precise editing barriers instantly.
Retains a clear, non-obstructive view of the underlying photo composition while drafting local adjustments.
Transfers precise local edits and mask filters across entirely separate image files to accelerate batch workflows.
Generates dramatic landscapes and architectural structural details out of single exposure inputs.
Launches editing workflows using a wide collection of preconfigured stylistic HDR filters and adjustable presets.
Establishes rapid plugin access shortcuts inside standard Photoshop workspaces.
Pricing
One-time purchase
- Full suite of 9 creative plugins
- U Point™ technology
- AI-powered masking
- Lifetime license
- Activates on up to 3 computers
Price for a new license.
Source: vendor pricing page →- Full suite of 9 creative plugins
- U Point™ technology
- AI-powered masking
- Lifetime license
Upgrade price starts from $99.99 for owners of Nik Collection 7 or 8.
Source: vendor pricing page →Countries & Languages
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About Nik HDR Efex
A photo editing tool for creating High Dynamic Range (HDR) images by blending multiple exposures or tone mapping a single image. It features presets and local adjustments with U Point™ technology.
Nik HDR Efex Details
Nik HDR Efex's In-App Market Place
Does Nik HDR Efex have an in-app market place?
Yes
How many Mini-Apps in the marketplace?
0
Mini Apps
Pricing Options
Plans
One-time purchase
- Full suite of 9 creative plugins
- U Point™ technology
- AI-powered masking
- Lifetime license
- Activates on up to 3 computers
Price for a new license.
Source: vendor pricing page →- Full suite of 9 creative plugins
- U Point™ technology
- AI-powered masking
- Lifetime license
Upgrade price starts from $99.99 for owners of Nik Collection 7 or 8.
Source: vendor pricing page →Accepted Payment Currencies
USD
Pros & Cons
- Creates HDR effects from either a single image or multiple bracketed exposures.
- U Point™ technology allows for precise, mask-free local adjustments.
- Integrates as a plugin with Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom Classic, and Affinity Photo.
- A 30-day fully functional free trial is available for the entire Nik Collection suite.
- Cannot be purchased individually; must be bought as part of the full Nik Collection suite.
- Primarily designed as a plugin, requiring host software for the most integrated workflow.
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