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Posts Tagged ‘Loupedeck’

Loupedeck announces Adobe collaboration and new Loupedeck plugin at Adobe MAX

22 Oct

Adobe has announced a massive Photoshop update which included, among many other features, the integration of Adobe’s new Unified Extensibility Platform (UXP) for plugins. Shortly after Adobe unveiled the new version of Photoshop, Loupedeck announced its collaboration with Adobe on a new plugin for Photoshop.

The free plugin, which can be downloaded through the new Plugin Marketplace in the Adobe Creative Cloud Desktop application, introduces new features and improvements for owners of the Loupedeck CT and Loupedeck Live. You may recall that we covered the new Loupedeck Live product last month, which you can learn more about here.

Image credit: Loupedeck

In addition to the improve performance and usability offered by Adobe’s UXP architecture, the new Loupedeck Photoshop plugin includes the following features, per Loupedeck:

  • Ability to add adjustment layers and control their corresponding parameters with dials and/or wheel
  • Reset functionality for individual adjustment parameters
  • Intuitive control over Font settings
  • Quickly scroll through and view history panel with dial and/or wheel
  • Increased control over Curves, including the ability to adjust color channel curves separately and control curve points
  • Smoother control over Brush settings and Zoom In/Out functions
  • Streamline workflow by combining Photoshop actions into macros within the Loupedeck software
  • Full control over Layer Properties
  • Ability to control Quick Actions (e.g., select object, remove background) introduced in Photoshop 2020
  • Better performance for Camera Raw

Of the new plugin, Loupedeck’s founder and CEO, Mikko Kesti, says, ‘We collaborated with Adobe to develop the new plugin and to ensure Loupedeck users could easily integrate and maximize their creative potential with the new features offered by Photoshop the moment they are available. Our new plugin for Photoshop incorporates the software’s new features into both the Loupedeck CT and just-launched Loupedeck Live, giving creators the power to further customize their Photoshop experience.’

Image credit: Loupedeck

Vijay Vachani, Adobe’s Senior Director of Product Management and Partner Ecosystem for Adobe Creative Cloud adds, ‘Photoshop users will now have increased functionality when using their Loupedeck devices and the ability to take even more control over a wide variety of Photoshop features, including the newly introduced Quick Actions.’

You can download the plugin from Adobe’s Plugin Marketplace by clicking here. You can learn more about Loupedeck Live and purchase it directly from Loupedeck. To learn more about Loupedeck CT, click here.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Loupedeck Live is a smaller, livestream-focused Loupedeck console

12 Sep

Loupedeck has announced a new product, Loupedeck Live. The new product looks a lot like the top half of the Loupedeck CT. The result is that the Loupedeck Live offers fewer total controls to the user but is more compact and more affordable than the Loupedeck CT.

Loupedeck Live is a customizable console designed to give you quick and easy access to numerous tools and functions. It acts as an additional input method beyond your keyboard and mouse. Loupedeck Live is aimed at streamers and content creators, but like Loupedeck CT, it is fully compatible with the software many photographers and videographers use daily, such as Photoshop, Lightroom and Premiere Pro. In total, Loupedeck Live supports 11 applications: Adobe Lightroom Classic, Photoshop CC, Premiere Pro CC, After Effects CC, Audition CC, Illustrator CC, Final Cut Pro X, OBS Studio, Streamlabs OBS, Spotify and Twitch. The native plugins for Loupedeck are regularly updated to support the latest version of the above applications.

Of its new Live model, Loupedeck says, ‘Loupedeck Live puts all of [the] tools you need right at your fingertips, making creative work faster, easier and most of all – more enjoyable!’ The company continues, ‘Loupedeck Live helps you streamline your workflow, with custom macros and shortcuts – putting you in complete control over your creativity.’ You can read more about how Loupedeck Live helps creatives here.

Image credit: Loupedeck

The Loupedeck Live is housed within an aluminum cover and has a 4.3-inch 480 x 272 pixel LCD with a capacitive touch panel. The console includes eight round push-buttons with RGB backlight and six endless rotation encoders with detents and push-button functionality. Loupedeck Live’s dimensions are 150 x 110 x 30mm and it weighs 230g. Loupedeck Live comes with a stand and with cables (USB-C cable and USB-C to USB-A adapter are included). You can see the Loupedeck Live in action in the video below. Loupedeck Live requires a computer running either Windows 10 or macOS 10.13 or higher.

In addition to the native plugin support, you can use Loupedeck’s software to create custom profiles for any application. These profiles are a combination of user actions and adjustments mapped to selected actions and adjustments. You can share these profiles and browse profiles other users have created. To learn more about how this functionality works, click here.

Image credit: Loupedeck

The ability to create custom profiles is perhaps even more important with Loupedeck Live than it is with its larger sibling, the Loupedeck CT. Loupedeck Live users will be able to select two creative plugins to unlock permanently at the beginning of 2021 and must purchase additional native plugins. You can learn more about this change in this article from Loupedeck. Additional plugins will be available on a monthly basis or as a lifetime license. This change does not impact Loupedeck CT owners, who have lifetime access to all native plugins.

For photographers interested in Loupedeck Live, some of the functions you can map to the console include putting cropping, undo, auto white balance and before/after comparisons on the screen and using the haptic dials to make precise adjustments to hue, saturation and luminance or other slider-based adjustments. You can learn more about how a Loupedeck Live console could fit into your photography workflow by watching the video below by Ted Forbes at The Art of Photography. He discusses a Loupedeck CT model, but the Loupedeck Live is a smaller, more affordable alternative that offers much of the same functionality, minus some keys and the large dial on the bottom half of the CT.

Loupedeck Live is available to order now for $ 269 USD. Shipping begins at the end of this month.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Loupedeck CT Review – Could This Be The Best Editing Tool?

28 May

The post Loupedeck CT Review – Could This Be The Best Editing Tool? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Carl Spring.

dps-loupedeck-ct-review

If you’ve read my previous review of the Loupedeck+, you’ll know I am a massive fan and it is now a firm part of my editing routine. As I said in that review, it was something that I was honestly wary of before trying it, but something I do edit without now. So when I got the chance to do the new Loupedeck CT review, I jumped at it. 

The Loupedeck CT is a completely new editing station. Loupedeck has marked this as their professional tool, designed to deliver a premium editing experience. Along with the dials and buttons familiar to those who have used the Loupedeck+, the Loupedeck CT features a touchscreen interface system of virtual buttons, that you can fully customize to your editing needs.

Loupedeck CT wrapped in a cable

Compatibility

The CT is compatible with a wide range of software right out of the box. And it has the ability to add even more software via an ever-growing library of custom profiles.

Here is a list of compatible software out of the box (takes deep breath):

  • Abelton live
  • After Effects
  • Audition
  • Capture One
  • Final Cut Pro
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • Adobe Lightroom Classic
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Premiere Pro
  • System (Windows & Mac)

Profiles exist for many more programs, including Davinci Resolve, Photomechanic, and Logic Pro X, amongst others. This is a serious list of professional software, and the ability to customize the Loupedeck CT means that there is an almost limitless opportunity to create your very own tailored workspace.

A Loupdeck CT with the unit in action for colour grading

Design and build quality

The Loupedeck CT is very different from the Loupdeck+. It is much more compact in its footprint. The size is about the same as two mobile phones placed side by side. This smaller footprint not only makes having the CT on a smaller desk much easier, but it also means it is simple to add to your bag when editing on the road or on location. 

The packaging looks and feels premium. It reminded me of an Apple device in the way that the quality oozes out before you even see the product.

Jet black packaging with an embossed and foiled logo on the side really does make this product feel luxurious. It may sound silly, but when packaging is this good, I feel that it shows the importance of attention to detail to the company.

Once the Loupedeck CT is removed from the packaging and those, oh so satisfying, clear plastic covers get removed, the quality of the Loupedeck CT shines through.

A photo of the box of a Loupedeck CT against a black background

The build quality on this device is excellent, with the device itself comprised of an aluminum top plate (save the virtual buttons workspace) with a solid plastic underside. All buttons and dials are all reassuringly firm, with the dials having a tactile click when turning, whilst the virtual buttons have haptic feedback, which you turn on or off.

The center dial is used as a touch screen interface for some adjustments, and again, it works perfectly. It is responsive and has worked flawlessly during my time with the unit.

This is a very well-made piece of equipment that is another step forward in quality from the already well-made Loupedeck+.

The Loupedeck CT also has a Bluetooth chip, which will eventually, via an update, make the unit connect wirelessly.

It also comes with 8GB of storage, which mounts as an external drive when you connect the Loupedeck CT. This storage allows you to save all settings and preferences within the device. So, when you transport the product, all your settings travel with you. This is great for those that travel regularly or use different computers for different projects.

Ergonomically, the unit is made for one-handed operation. This is not to underestimate the amount of editing this thing can do on its own. Whilst the Loupedeck+ feels like something that is aimed to replace your keyboard, the CT feels like an addition to your keyboard and mouse. It is an incredibly powerful enhancement to your workflow.

A closeup of the Loupedeck showing the different LED button colours.

Buttons on the Loupedeck CT are backlit in a way that aids your use of the device. The buttons’ color shows how it is mapped at a glance. The three colors are green, purple, and blue.

Green buttons are assigned to workspaces (of which you can have multiple per application). The purple buttons are assigned to actions (such as applying a preset or creating a copy of the image, etc.). Finally, the blue buttons are there to take you into page-based layouts. This allows you to create sub-menus within a workspace, such as a page dedicated to your image presets, without the need to change the entire workspace.

Installing the Loupedeck CT

Installing the Loupedeck CT is a simple affair. You just download and install the software from the Loupedeck website, then connect the Loupedeck.

The Loupedeck itself is USB-C, which helps future-proof the product. However, it comes packaged with a USB-C to USB-A braided cable, which will be welcomed by a lot of people. The cable itself is of high quality, reinforcing the attention to detail that Loupedeck has put into this product. 

The step Screen for the Loupdeck CT showing Lightroom Classic Settings
The installation and setup is easy. But you will need to spend some time with the software to set the Loupedeck CT to your preferences.

Learning curve

The learning curve is the part of Loupedeck CT that is the thing that you will find hardest. It’s not that the CT is hard to use, in fact, it is the total opposite of that. It is more about remembering which button is where, how you have your dials set, and moving your hands away from existing workflows.

With the Loupedeck+ everything is set and you quickly become accustomed to where everything is. However, whilst the flexibility of the Loupedeck CT is its strongest feature, it does mean you have a larger learning curve. As an example, when moving from Lightroom to Photoshop, the button layout changes, so it takes more time to become a power user across multiple software. 

The initial setting up of custom workspaces will take time and effort from the user. However, this is the step that is essential for those looking to get the most out of this device.

The software makes it simple to set up, but you need to customize the layout of the deck for your specific editing style. You will then need to do this on a software-by-software basis. This process may take a few hours, but it is so worth it. The profiles supplied by Loupedeck are great and get you started instantly, but every editing workflow is different and the Loupedeck profiles are unlikely to match your specific workflow.

A view of the Loupdeck CT editing console in video editing mode
As with the Loupdeck+, the CT makes using software easier. It does have a learning curve though, one for each software you use it with.

The Loupdeck CT in use

The first thing I noticed about the Loupedeck CT was its software awareness. Switching over to Photoshop from Lightroom, the Loupedeck instantly changed to its Photoshop workspace. There was no lag or waiting. It was ready to go. This smoothness is the same for every software. You can even set it up to control your Spotify, so you can keep your hands on the Loupedeck whilst you decide what music you want to  listen to whilst you edit. 

This key feature makes the Loupedeck CT amazing for those who work in several different pieces of software. It really does make this device a huge step up from the Loupedeck+.

I know when I reviewed the Loupedeck+, I said that video editing wasn’t great. With the CT, it really performs.

Moving to Premiere Pro, you get the tools you use the most right at your fingertips. As someone who isn’t a huge video editor, it makes editing easier for me. I have also been experimenting with Final Cut Pro, and again, the Loupedeck saves me having to search through menus when I am looking for a tool.

I am sure that in the hands of a more capable editor, this tool will be huge in speeding up workflow. For an amateur like me, it makes things easier and encourages me to dig deeper.

This is also true of Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Audition, which I profess to be completely lacking in in-depth knowledge. However, I can see how this, in the right hands, will be incredibly useful.

A person using a Loupedeck to edit colour in a photograph
The centre wheel is one of the highlights of the CT. Being able to use it for things such as colour grading is so intuitive.

Moving on to photography (the reason I am sure most of you are reading this), to sum it up, it is amazing. If the Loupedeck+ is a high-quality, off-the-peg suit, the CT is a custom-tailored suit from Saville Row; every button and dial customized to fit your editing needs. 

In Lightroom Classic, it performs beautifully. Editing is effortless and the Loupedeck makes the whole process quicker, easier, and more tactile. The ability to customize a setup to be exactly how you want is something that gives this an advantage over the Loupedeck+ for those who use more advanced features regularly. This is shown in the ease of adding your own presets to buttons. Simply create the preset, then ask Lightroom Classic to update, and instantly, it is available to add to your layout. 

It is when you move to Photoshop that the Loupedeck CT really shines. The ability to customize your button layout combined with size means using this with a mouse or graphics tablet is a joy. Also, the ability to use the touchscreen center button makes working in color an amazing experience. The Loupedeck CT is a much more enhanced experience than the Loupdeck+ when it comes to Photoshop.

The integration with Adobe products is still deeper than with other software, though. Switching to Capture One Pro, the experience is simply not quite as fluid. Capture One is in Beta mode even though it comes pre-installed. In use, it lacks the level of integration found in Lightroom and can’t offer the same functionality. 

This is due to Loupedeck relying on keyboard shortcuts rather than the software API. Loupedeck has released an enhanced plugin profile, which allows greater integration for Capture One users. This does help, but it relies on you having to set your keyboard to the US setting, which as a UK user, is an annoyance.

I know discussions have taken place with Phase One on fully integrating the Loupedeck CT, and for many professionals who use Capture One, this would be a game-changer. Until that happens, the best way to describe the Capture One experience is good, but not as good as Lightroom.

A closeup of the Loupedeck CT showing Adobe software symbols

What I love

There is a lot to love about this product. The main things for me are:

  • Size
  • Look and build quality
  • Unlimited customization options
  • Multi-software usage 

What could be better 

  • Integration with non-Adobe products
  • No wireless option (although this may be coming)

Is it worth it?

This is the big question. This Loupedeck CT is not cheap. It currently retails at £469.

It warrants that money to those who spend a lot of time editing and those who use a variety of software daily. It is much more suitable for a wider variety of programs than the Loupedeck+. If you use Adobe products, it is pretty much flawless.

However, if you mainly edit in Lightroom, you will possibly be better served with the Loupedeck+. It has all the features you need and comes at a lesser cost. 

The other question is whether it is better to invest in the Loupedeck CT or a graphics tablet. Again, this depends on your usage and editing style. Personally, I would make more use of the Loupedeck CT. However, you may not. 

The Loupedeck CT is aimed at a certain group of people. To those that will get the most out of this product, the £469 price tag is easily justified in the time saving and workflow enhancements the CT will give them. The Loupedeck CT is no mere editing gadget – it is a tool that takes your editing workflow to another level.

I really suggest you try a Loupedeck before dismissing it out of hand. Be warned though, you will probably fall in love.

The post Loupedeck CT Review – Could This Be The Best Editing Tool? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Carl Spring.


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Loupedeck Launches Loupedeck Profile Creator for Creative Professionals

30 Mar

The post Loupedeck Launches Loupedeck Profile Creator for Creative Professionals appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

Loupedeck Launches Loupedeck Profile Creator for Creative Professionals

The Loupedeck Creative Tool is designed to do one thing:

Make your software workflow easier and faster than ever before.

The Loupedeck CT is a console-type tool, one that allows you to program different actions into its many buttons and dials. While it can technically be used to enhance any application, you’ll be especially impressed by its integration with photo editing software.

For instance, when working in Photoshop, you can use the Loupedeck CT wheel to zoom in and out of images, one button to activate the lasso tool, and another button to create a mask. You can use a small dial to change brush size, a button to select the color picker tool, and yet another button to select the brush.

With the Loupedeck CT in hand, editing speed will advance to a whole new level, as you fluidly edit one image after another by tapping buttons, adjusting dials, and spinning the main wheel. No longer do you have to hunt for keyboard shortcuts or waste time searching for menu options.

loupedeck creative tool

Instead, the Loupedeck CT will get the job done.

But Loupedeck has taken their Creative Tool a step further.

As of last week, you can now use the Loupedeck Profile Creator to generate Custom Profiles for different software applications.

Loupedeck explains in their press release:

The new Loupedeck Profile Creator will enable users…to program custom actions and adjustments using shortcuts, keys, delays, macros, text, links, run application, and mouse movements.

Even better, the Profile Creator is easy to use and can be grasped by an absolute beginner.

In other words, you can create Loupedeck “presets” for different editing applications. You might create one Custom Profile for Lightroom and another for Photoshop.

That way, as soon as you open up your editing program, you know exactly what to do, and you can customize the Loupedeck CT to fit your particular workflow.

Now, while casual photo editors might not find the Loupedeck CT appealing, this tool is ideal for anyone who does frequent editing. It’ll allow you to streamline your photography workflow so that you can cut down on editing time and focus on doing what you love:

Taking pictures.

You can purchase the Loupedeck Creative Tool for $ 549 USD.

The post Loupedeck Launches Loupedeck Profile Creator for Creative Professionals appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Loupedeck+ review

15 Feb

What is it?

Like its Loupedeck predecessor, the Loupedeck+ is a $ 250 editing console for various post-production programs. Originally designed with Adobe Lightroom Classic in mind, the Loupedeck+ has improved and expanded upon the original version to offer an improved tactile experience that lets you edit photos, videos and even sound using dedicated dials, knobs and wheels.

In addition to providing dedicated dials for color correcting and fine-tuning images and video, the Loupedeck+ editing console also serves as a great culling tool, with dedicated buttons for rating, flagging and sorting images before you ever start editing. In short, the Loupedeck+ tries to bring a more tactile approach to editing your content and eschews the on-screen sliders for an array of what seems like infinitely customizable controls.

What’s new

As its name suggests, the Loupedeck+ is a second-generation device, a successor to the original Loupedeck. While its external dimensions and overall shape have remained essentially unchanged, it does offer several improvements.

The first and most noticeable improvement is the build quality. The frame, as well as the various dials, knobs and keys, have been upgraded to create a more sturdy feel. The ‘clicks’ of the dials and knobs feel much less wobbly than the original Loupedeck and the overall tactile feedback is much more pleasing.

The ‘clicks’ of the dials and knobs
feel much less wobbly

The buttons have also received an update, although they’re still a bit too ‘mushy’ for my liking. I would love to see a version with mechanical switches compared to the membrane switches currently used, but that would likely increase the cost and size of the device, so it’s not a dealbreaker.

Aside from physical details, Loupedeck has also updated its accompanying software for the Loupedeck+. It not only offers more customization options than before, it also supports many more programs, including Premiere Pro, Aurora HDR, Adobe Audition, and others.

Design

At first glance, the design of the Loupedeck+ is a little overwhelming. It almost feels as though you’ve been thrown into the captain’s seat of a commercial airliner with all of the buttons, dials and knobs available to you.

Thankfully, so long as you’re familiar with the program you’re using the Loupedeck+ with, it doesn’t take too long to get the hang of. For the majority of my time with the Loupedeck+, I used it alongside Lightroom. It took a few days of looking down at the editing console, then back up at my screen to ensure I was making the right adjustment, but within a week of using the console, I was able to make adjustments on the fly without looking.

In Use

Although the Loupedeck+ is compatible with several programs (listed below), I mainly tested it out with Adobe Lightroom Classic. As such, my thoughts only address the user experience with Lightroom Classic.

The Loupedeck+ proved to be an incredibly valuable tool once I managed to set up the customizable controls to my liking (a process I also divulge below). Much like the original Loupedeck, it made culling, sorting and editing photos much easier than having to go through each slider in the Develop dialog and tweak it with my mouse.

Furthermore, using the Loupedeck+ made it possible to process photos in full-screen mode, making it easier to edit photos on smaller displays more precisely. Changes are slightly delayed when using full screen mode, compared to editing directly within the Develop module, but it wasn’t delayed enough to make the process any more difficult.

One detail I would’ve liked to see added is the ability to assign specific macros to the customizable buttons. Yes, there are plenty of built-in options (almost too many), but I would love to be able to add keyword groups to images with the tap of a button or two.

Software

While the Loupedeck+ hardware is a pleasure to use, the secret sauce of the editing console lies in the software. As previously noted, Loupedeck has not only dramatically improved support for existing programs in the form of more customizability but also added support for several new programs. As of writing this review, the Loupedeck+ can be customized to work with the following programs:

  • Adobe Lightroom Classic
  • Adobe Photoshop CC with Camera Raw
  • Adobe Premiere Pro CC
  • Capture One
  • Adobe After Effects CC
  • Final Cut Pro X
  • Adobe Audition
  • Skylum: Aurora HDR

The Loupedeck plug-in itself is a bit convoluted on first glance. Between the sheer number of buttons, dials and knobs available on the board and the ability to further customize each one with the included Function (Fn) button, the options are seemingly infinite.

So infinite, it seems, that there’s a good chance any amount of time the Loupedeck+ might save me in editing down the road was very likely taken up during my customization setup. From dedicated crop ratios and user presets to fine-tuning the integrated HSL sliders, there’s hardly anything you won’t be able to tweak and customize within the Loupedeck plug-in with Lightroom. Other programs are more limited, as integration isn’t nearly as tightly-knit, but even outside of Lightroom, the Loupedeck+ console goes much further than your average macro combo.

I think the initial onboarding process could be a little easier for the plug-in, but this tool is meant for the power-user, and anyone familiar with more advanced features shouldn’t have too much trouble getting up to speed.

Bottom Line

The Loupedeck+ editing console is a substantial update over its predecessor. The build quality is better (particularly in regards to the dials/knobs/keys), it’s a bit more compact, and the additional buttons provide even more functionality than before.

It’s not necessarily cheap at $ 250, but considering how much time it saved me in just a few months of using it, it’s clear it will more than pay for itself in the long run, based on time alone (not to mention frustration).

I would’ve liked to see, at the very least, a detachable USB-C cable or, better yet, a completely wireless version with Bluetooth and a built-in battery. But aside from that, I don’t have many complaints. It gets consistent updates, has a solid partnering app and brings a fantastic tactile editing experience to the digital creative workflow.

What I like:

  • Great array of buttons, dials and knobs
  • Dedicated HSL scroll wheels
  • Looks fantastic on the desk
  • Great software that makes the hardware shine
  • Consistent software updates

What I don’t like:

  • No USB-C
  • Cable isn’t detachable (or wireless if I’m allowed an additional complaint)
  • Matte finish shows wear and scratches easily

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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The new Loupedeck Creative Tool editing console packs improved software integrations

30 Oct

Loupedeck has introduced Loupedeck Creative Tool (CT), the latest product in its line of editing consoles for creatives. The Loupedeck CT is small and nearly square at 160 x 150 x 30mm (6.3 x 5.9 x 1.2in) with a weight of 365g (12.9oz). The new model joins the previously released Loupedeck and Loupedeck+ consoles, offering a design that can ‘work in sync with all editing tools and software.’

The Loupedeck CT is a plug-and-play console with native integrations for a variety of popular software, including Final Cut Pro X, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and Lightroom Classic. This model also introduces Loupedeck console support for Adobe Illustrator and music production software Ableton Live; later on this year, there will also be support for Autodesk Fusion 360.

The ‘fully adaptable’ Loupedeck CT is made with a high-quality aluminum cover and dials, plus it features LED backlighting, touchscreens, and what Loupedeck says are machine-quality ball bearings. The console packs preset workspaces designed for each software product integration, as well, though users retain the ability to customize the workspaces to meet their own needs.

Loupedeck designed its latest console with portability in mind; joining its small size is a removable USB cable. In addition to its software integrations and various buttons, dials, and touchscreens, the Loupedeck CT features Bluetooth 5 LE connectivity and support for macOS 10.12 or later and Windows 10. Below is a short intro tutorial shared by Loupedeck:

The new model is available to preorder now for $ 549 from Loupedeck and B&H Photo; shipping is expected to start on November 11.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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New Loupedeck Creative Tool: Smoother Editing for Creative Professionals

29 Oct

The post New Loupedeck Creative Tool: Smoother Editing for Creative Professionals appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

Loupedeck-creative-tool-announcement

Do you ever feel like you want more control over your photo editing?

If so, you’re in luck.

Because Loupedeck has just launched one of the most innovative editing products out there: a console that’s designed to speed up your editing workflow and give you a smooth editing experience.

It’s called the Loupedeck Creative Tool, and it’s truly unique.

How exactly does it work?

The Creative Tool is a photo editing console. It hooks up to your photo editing program of choice, and allows you to use many buttons, touchscreens, and more to achieve the photo editing workflow that you desire.

Loupedeck-creative-tool-announcement

Note that the Creative Tool itself doesn’t work in place of a computer and monitor. Instead, it works alongside your computer to provide an efficient editing experience like the Loupedeck+, another Loupedeck product.

Currently, the Creative Tool is compatible with Adobe Lightroom Classic, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, Ableton Live, Adobe Illustrator, and Final Cut Pro X. The company promises to integrate Autodesk Fusion 360 before the year is out, and you can certainly expect additional compatible programs as Loupedeck update the Creative Tool.

Here’s a video explaining how the product works with Lightroom Classic:

?

Who’s it for?

Now, while the Loupedeck Creative Tool seems like an intriguing option, who should actually consider the product?

First, I’d recommend beginner photographers stay away from the Loupedeck Creative Tool. It’s a lot to handle, and doesn’t offer much benefit to anyone who doesn’t have a consistent editing workflow and very specific needs.

On the other hand, for more serious photographers (including professionals), the Loupedeck is a great choice. You’ll use the Creative Tool to enhance your editing. And it’ll enable you to edit faster without compromising quality.

As explained by the Loupedeck CEO:

The rise in popularity of professional editing within the digital workspace has sparked a new generation of creative professionals who require absolute precision, versatility, portability and endless customization possibilities in the tools they use, which was considered in the design and development of the Loupedeck Creative Tool.

If you’re one of these serious creative professionals, then you should seriously consider the Loupedeck Creative Tool. It’s available for preorder on B&H Photo Video, and the company will begin shipping on November 11th.

New Loupedeck Creative Tool: Smoother Editing for Creative Professionals

Now I’d like to know your thoughts:

Would you be interested in a product like the Loupedeck Creative Tool? Are you looking for increased customization in your editing?

Let me know in the comments!

The post New Loupedeck Creative Tool: Smoother Editing for Creative Professionals appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Loupedeck+ Review – the Perfect Editing Companion for Lightroom and Premiere?

02 Oct

The post Loupedeck+ Review – the Perfect Editing Companion for Lightroom and Premiere? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Carl Spring.

Loupedeck+ Review - the Perfect Editing Companion for Lightroom and Premiere?

There is something undeniably cool about Hollywood editing studios. I remember seeing one in a magazine as a child and wanting to play with it. Thinking how cool it would be to figure out what all the dials did and edit Hollywood Blockbusters. I never made it in Hollywood, but I can remember my first editing console. Purchased from the high street, it allowed me to link 2 VCR players and have a fade and wipe slider for video. It even had an audio fader that allowed me to (surprisingly) fade audio. At the time it was amazing! I made a lot of skateboard videos using that console.

Obviously we’ve moved to digital everything, but there is something about using knobs and dials to edit that I have always liked. So, when I was given the opportunity to try the Loupedeck+, I jumped at the chance to get hands-on with it. 

What is it?

Simply put, Loupedeck+ is a keyboard-sized photo editing console. The main editing functions are controlled via a series of knobs and buttons.

Loupedeck started life on Indiegogo. The initial Loupedeck was marketed as a photo editing console just for Lightroom. With the Loupedeck+, however, it has become much more than that. The new version has support for several different software platforms too.

This device is still aimed primarily at Adobe users, with support for most of the Creative Suite. There is also support for Apple’s Final Cut and Aurora HDR and is also currently in Beta testing with Capture One Pro, which is my preferred choice of photo editor.

Out of the box

In terms of looks, it is beautifully packaged. However, that doesn’t mean anything if the product itself is not up to scratch. The Loupedeck however, definitely is. Although fully plastic, everything is solid and feels like it will survive long term usage. The only exception to this is the control dial, which does feel a little flimsy compared to the rest of the device.

In terms of the buttons, when making notes, I put down that they are squishy but solid. I still think that’s the best way to describe them. There is also a nice little detail for the cable to connect the Loupedeck. There are grooves that allow you to place it to work with how your computer is setup. It’s not a deal-breaker, but attention to detail like this tends to show the makers care about the end-user. 

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The Loupedeck+ is well built apart from the control dial. It just feels a little flimsy. However, in use, it has been flawless so far.

Getting set up 

Once you have unpackaged your Loupedeck, the next stage is setting it up. To do this, you need to install the Loupedeck software. This is a simple download from the Loupedeck website, which then allows you to customize the Loupedeck to your specific editing preferences.

I have left it is standard for now, but I can definitely see me looking into this again to fine-tune it to how I edit.

Once you have the software installed, it is as simple as choosing which software you want to use the Loupedeck with and off you go. Loupedeck has a series of guides for each piece of software that it is compatible with. I recommend having these on hand, especially when using software other than Lightroom. Even with Lightroom though, it is worth having nearby to see what extras you may find yourself reaching for.

The fact that the user guide for Lightroom alone is 31 pages tells you what level of customization is possible.

Image: To get started with Loupedeck+ you need to download the software from the Loupedeck website....

To get started with Loupedeck+ you need to download the software from the Loupedeck website. Once installed, choose your software and away you go.

The learning curve

The learning curve is in two parts; getting used to the Loupedeck from your usual editing routine, and how Loupedeck reduces the learning curve of the software.

To test this, I got my wife to use Loupedeck to work on a wedding we had recently shot. She normally helps make picks, but she has very limited editing experience. She can just about manage to tweak exposure a little, but that’s it.

I put her at the Loupedeck and asked her to try and edit images she thought needed work. After about 2 minutes of me explaining the device, she started. Two more minutes passed before she explained how brilliant it was.

By removing the need to search through the menus (of Capture One in our case), she was able to edit photos easily and without needing constant reminders of the locations of buttons or sliders. It made her experiment more, and within an hour, she felt completely confident using the Loupedeck.

For beginners, this will make the process of learning to edit (especially in Lightroom) so much easier. Everything is at hand, and the layout makes it simpler for beginners to experiment. They can use more of the features of the program without the need to remember the locations in the menus.

For me, as a power user of Capture One, the learning curve was a little steeper. I’ve put this down to Capture One currently being in Beta testing. There are some quirks I needed to get used to when editing, such as using the color balance tool.

There is also the fact that when you use the software every day, you acquire muscle memory from the keyboard shortcuts you use most often. Moving to dials does take a while to get used to.

I do feel that even for Lightroom users (whom this deck was designed for), the change to Loupedeck will mean your editing is slower until you get up to speed. However, I am talking only hours here, not days.

Loupedeck+ and Lightroom

Obviously I wanted to start this test with Lightroom as this is really the program the device is designed for. Now I am not a Lightroom user, so having me use this is more like an inexperienced Lightroom editor versus someone who uses it every day.

I loaded up a selection of images into a catalog and began editing. Using the Loupedeck was completely intuitive. I simply started to edit images without the need to try and remember control locations. It was as easy as twisting the dials with the required name on them. In my experience, the Loupdeck+ and Lightroom work flawlessly together. There is no lag, and the degree of control with each twist feels perfect. Everything is at hand, and if you do find yourself needing something that is not here, you can customize the software until your heart’s content.

It made the process of editing in Lightroom a pleasure and, as a hardcore Capture One user, that is the highest praise I can give it.

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It is easy to see that the Loupedeck+ is designed with Lightroom users in mind.

Loupedeck+ and Capture One Pro

Because I’m not a Lightroom user, I went down the road that is Beta testing to put the Loupedeck in my day-to-day editing software. 

Now compared to Lightroom, I found editing in Capture One Pro to be a more clunky affair. The problem is that in its current Beta state, the Loupedeck doesn’t offer the same level of functionality. This is something that Loupedeck are working on and are currently looking for feedback from any Capture One users to help improve the experience.

The basic adjustments work perfectly well in Capture One. To adjust white balance and exposure is just as good as Lightroom. However, there are elements, such as resetting adjustments, that are not there.

The issue here is that the Loupedeck was designed with Lightroom in mind and Capture One works differently. The most obvious example of this is the P1-P8 buttons. In Lightroom, these assign to presets; however, in Capture One, they are simply not set up.

Shooting Fuji, I would love to map this to my film curves, where it would be great to choose the look of my image. However, at present, this is not possible. For more advanced editing, it can be frustrating, and I find myself reaching for the mouse and keyboard more often than I would like.

It’s not perfect by any means, and it does sound a little doom and gloom, but in terms of basic edits, it really did speed up my workflow. I have now edited two weddings with the Loupedeck, and it has definitely saved me some time. Also being super simple for basic adjustments, it really has allowed my wife to do basic edits for things such as exposure.
When editing a wedding, I reach for it straight away. It really is something that after using it, I wouldn’t be without.

The best thing about using Loupedeck+ with Capture One is that I know it can only get better from here. Once there are some more options added, and a few things ironed out from the beta testing, I feel this will be a powerful editing tool.

Loupedeck+ and Photoshop

This is where things start to feel like I was using the Loupedeck for the sake of it. When editing a RAW file, it was great, but after that, I really felt no benefit from using it. When editing in Photoshop, you tend to use your mouse or tablet much more.

You can use it for working with curves, but you need to work with the mouse too, and I found it just too clunky. Other things like zoom in and out, which are mapped to knobs, simply do not work as well as using the middle mouse button.

Unlike using it in Lightroom and Capture One, when working in Photoshop, I found myself using it for the sake of it, rather than reaping any real benefit. I do feel that the Loupedeck+ working with more software is good. However, I feel that, in some cases, it just feels like it is added for marketing over actual functionality. 

Loupedeck+ and Premiere

The ability for Loupedeck to work with Premiere was something that I found myself excited to try. I am by no means a power user, but I know my way around Premiere and edit with it enough to consider myself proficient.

Using Loupedeck with Premiere, though, is where things go a little too far for me. When using it to edit a video, it was just too hard for me to remember what all the functions did. It could be due to my lack of time spent in Premiere, but I think it’s more than that. When photo editing, things like exposure, and contrast are the same no matter which program you use. Video editing, however, uses a completely different language.

It is not that you can’t learn how to use Loupedeck with Premiere. I think once you got used to what each button and dial was mapped to, it would really speed things up. However, as someone who uses the software occasionally, I would find it hard to remember the settings for Premiere.

I think the best way to sum it up is that if you are buying a Loupdeck+ solely for Premiere use, you may face a steep learning curve. For me, to have it as a bonus is nice, even though I can’t really see myself using it.

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As you can see from the layout above, Loupedeck is not as intuitive in Premiere.

Conclusion

It’s hard to sum up the Loupedeck+.

Some may see this as a gimmick you will buy, only to put it in the cupboard after a few months to gather dust. But that really isn’t how it is. It’s a well-made, high-quality device that really is a time-saver, especially in basic edits.

I use the Loupedeck+ on every edit now. That must say something. It has sped up my editing (it needs to, I am currently behind on editing a wedding and am writing this article rather than doing that). However, I do still find myself reaching for the keyboard or mouse quite often. I think the best way is to give three different outcomes, depending on what software you use.

If you’re a Capture One user like me, you may find it frustrating. It is almost there, close to being great, but then there are silly little things that are really annoying! However, this is in beta testing, which means things are still ironing out. I am sure this is going to improve moving forward. It’s just a question of whether you are willing to pay for something that doesn’t quite work as you would like it to.

If you’re using this on Premiere or Final Cut, you will need to spend some serious time with the manual. It really is not intuitive in the same way it is for photo editing. If you are willing to put in the time, I am sure it will speed up your workflow. I do question how long it would take to get to this point though.

Lastly, Lightroom. This is still what they designed the Loupedeck for. If you are a Lightroom user, I would definitely suggest getting your hands on a Loupedeck+ – It really does make editing much faster. It worked incredibly well in use, and I enjoyed editing in Lightroom. This really is the highest praise I can give it.

However, where this console really shines is for new users. If you are new to editing, I cannot recommend this enough. I wish something like this had existed when I started editing. It makes the process of understanding how tools work so much more organic. Beginners will get a lot out of using a device like this – It just makes editing more intuitive. My wife managed to edit much better than ever before in minutes.

Moving forward, I will continue to use a Loupedeck+ to edit. Maybe it’s just my old ways. Maybe it means I get to pretend I am in a film studio editing suite. Or maybe, it’s something that I never really thought I would want, but now don’t want to stop using.

In all honesty, I think it’s all three.

 

loupedeck+-review

The post Loupedeck+ Review – the Perfect Editing Companion for Lightroom and Premiere? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Carl Spring.


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Loupedeck+ 2.7.0 update brings with it Adobe Camera Raw integration

26 Jun

Loupedeck has announced its latest editing console, Loupedeck+, now includes integration with Adobe Camera Raw, adding yet another program to its list of supported post-production applications.

The version 2.7.0 update, implemented via the Loupedeck desktop app, adds the ability to control the various editing tools within the Adobe Camera Raw workspace. Considering the Adobe Camera Raw workspace is at the core of Adobe Lightroom Classic, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the various editing tools and adjustments are nearly identical on the Loupedeck+ console between the two programs.

As with the Lightroom Classic integration, the Loupedeck+ console offers Adobe Camera Raw users the ability to crop, make basic adjustments, color correct, add various details and more. If the default layout doesn’t fit your workflow, the Loupedeck app makes it easy to customize what the various dials and settings. Below is a video Loupedeck has posted to its YouTube channel that takes a look at the Adobe Camera Raw support with photographer and filmmaker Adam Karnacz.

The Adobe Camera Raw integration brings the total number of supported editing apps to eight. Loupedeck already supports Adobe Lightroom Classic CC, Final Cut Pro X, Adobe Premiere Pro CC, Adobe Photoshop CC, Adobe After Effects CC, Adobe Audition and Skylum’s Aurora HDR.

The 2.7.0 update is available on Loupdeck’s website for both macOS and Windows computers. If you already have the software installed, you can manually update the application from its settings menu.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Loupedeck+ now supports Adobe Audition and Final Cut Pro X

16 Apr

Loupedeck+, the customizable post-production controller, has added Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Audition to the list of supported programs.

Last year alone, the Loupedeck+ gained support for Adobe Premiere Pro CC, Adobe After Effects CC, Adobe Photoshop CC, Capture One and Skylum Aurora HDR. Now, the device is even more capable with support for Apple’s professional video editing program, Final Cut Pro X, and Adobe’s audio editing program Audition.

With Final Cut Pro X, the Loupedeck is now able to color grade and color correct with its HSL color wheels, adjust/trim clips and scrub through the video timeline. The other keys and dials on the keyboard can also be customized to control more than 400+ additional functions and assign various keyboard shortcuts. Loupedeck+ configurations can also be imported and exported for syncing across multiple units.

In Adobe Audition, the Loupedeck+ can manage single track and multitrack projects with the ability to trim/nudge audio clips, add fades and effects with the click of a button, and adjust the volume for different channels with the scroll wheels.

The software update can be installed directly from the Loupedeck program if you already have it installed on your computer. Otherwise, Loupedeck version 2.6 can be downloaded from the Loupedeck website.

The Loupedeck+ controller unit is available from Loupedeck for $ 249 / 229€ with free worldwide shipping. Loupedeck also has a YouTube channel with various tutorials showing how to make the most of the Loupedeck+ controller.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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