Japanese software developer Ichikawa Soft Laboratory Co. has released a new version of its Silkypix Development Studio Pro application that introduces a number of new tools and functions. Version 8 of the Raw adjustment and conversion program adds a clarity slider to the tool-set, that can be used to emphasize or smooth-out differences in neighboring tones to deliver more or less tonal impact in an image.
Users can also now take more control of black and white conversions using the Monochrome Controller Function that allows a range of colors to be lightened or darkened to simulate the use of colored optical filters over the lens of a camera loaded with black and white film. For selective enhancements a brush tool has been added to the Partial correction tool kit which the company says will make it easier to create rounder selection areas for adjustment.
Those who like to shoot underwater will be glad of a dedicated tool for correcting the color of images recorded in a range of sub-aqua conditions which reduces the impact of color-loss and shift at various selectable depths. Silkypix also now allows a single license to cover three computers and the company says it has cleaned up the user interface to make it more straightforward to use.
The program, and variations on it, is favored by a number of camera brands as an in-the-box raw converter given away with their cameras, but the full version can be purchased on-line from the manufacturer for 22464 JPY (approx. $ 200/£160). A 30-day free trial is also available. The program supports raw files from 613 cameras, it is claimed. For more information see the Silkypix website.
Press release
Product release announcement, high quality RAW development software high-end version “SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8 download version”
The product concept of SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8
“SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8” is the latest development in the SILKYPIX series, aiming at “enhancement of functions for finishing photographs that meet the photographer’s expectations” and “a comfortable and enjoyable RAW development software.” In this version, we have added “Clarity” and a “Brush” to the “Partial correction tool,” which have been requested by many customers. In addition, it has been equipped with a “Monochrome controller” specialized for monochrome adjustments and a “Underwater photo controller” specific for underwater photography. This RAW development software will be a strong support so you can create your own works.
SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8 major features
Clarity adjustment
A “Clarity” parameter has been added to the “Tone” adjustment item to adjust the luminance level of each pixel based on information from surrounding pixels. Increasing the effects of “Clarity” will make it possible to finish the details of the subject in a bold picture, so it is effective when you want to finish bold scenes with a hazy surrounding. In contrast, by lowering the “Clarity” you can finish with a soft ambience like with a soft focus, so you can use it to effect with women and children’s photography.
A Brush added to the Partial correction tools
A “Brush” that makes it possible to select correction areas more freely to “Partial corrections” was added in “SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro7.” Using the “Brush” makes corrections easier even in difficult areas of “circular correction filter” and “gradual correction filter.” More creative adjustments have become possible by making partial corrections that do not take the form of the subject.
Strengthening the Monochrome Controller Function
A Monochrome Controller function has been installed specialized for adjusting monochrome pictures. Eight kinds of “Color filters” can be selected, and it is possible to reproduce filters when shooting monochrome photographs on your screen. In addition, since the “Lightness” can be adjusted for each hue, you can make a thorough finish to your black and white photographs. Even beginners of black and white photography can easily switch between color and monochrome images after applying parameters in the preview display, so you will be able to intensify the understanding of effects on monochrome photographs due to changes in color.
Underwater Photo Controller Installed as a Function for Correcting Dedicated to Underwater Photography
A function from “SILKYPIX Marine Photography” for RAW development software dedicated to underwater photography has been installed into “SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8” called Underwater photo controller. With this Underwater photo controller, you can correct the bluishness that is difficult to adjust with the normal white balance by using “White balance for underwater.” It also features “Color restoration,” which actually reproduces colors lost in water, as well as “Muddy reduction” to eliminate murkiness in water.
Focus Peaking Function Installed
A Focus peaking function has been installed to detect the parts focused on from adjacent pixels in the image, and to display them with colors added to those parts. With this function, you can clearly check the area of focus.
Improved User Interface
We have improved the design to be clean and simple to make it possible to concentrate on adjusting images. In addition, the layout has been changed to make it easier to understand for those using adjustment functions for the first time. Also, you can now change the background color of the preview display according to your preference.
One License Can Be Used on Three Computers
In recent years, more and more people own multiple computers, such as desktops, laptops, tablets, etc., sometimes using both Windows and macOS. With such changes in the industry, “SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8” is now available for use on three computers with one license.
New function / Improvement list
- Tone – Clarity slider addition
- Partial correction tool – brush addition
- Monochrome controller
- Underwater photo controller
- Warning indication – Focus peaking addition
- Preview display Select background color
- Choose Rating Display / Non-display under the thumbnail display
- Improved User Interface
- One License Can Be Used on Three Computers
SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro8 download version (Win/Mac) license price
Regular list price
New license
28080 JPY (tax included)
Upgrade license
Customer who already has following license can purchase one license for your one product license.
Upgrade target products:
SILKYPIX Developer Studio Pro, Pro5, Pro5 for Panasonic, Pro6, Pro7, Pro7 for Panasonic
11232 JPY (tax included)
Upgrade target products:
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0, 4.0, 6, 7
16848 JPY (tax included)
Special price for bundle products
Customers for (bundle version) SILKYPIX series which were shipped with the cameras and lenses
22464 JPY (tax included)
[Target products]
SILKYPIX Developer Studio SE version
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 for TAMRON
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 4.0 for CASIO
FUJIFILM RAW FILE CONVERTER powered by SILKYPIX
SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.0 for PENTAX or LE
SAMSUNG RAW Converter
Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)
