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Visual Art & Communication Centre | Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Visual Art & Communication Centre

Affinity Photo: The Photoshop Alternative for Professionals

These real-world applications demonstrate that Affinity Photo is not just a cost-effective alternative to Photoshop, but a robust, professional-grade tool capable of handling demanding projects across various creative fields. Its growing adoption in professional settings is a testament to its capabilities and reliability.

Affinity Photo | Curves
Affinity Photo | Curves

A. Key features and capabilities

Affinity Photo stands as a powerful alternative to Adobe Photoshop, offering a comprehensive set of tools for photo editing, digital painting, and raster graphics creation. Some of its key features include:


1. Non-destructive editing: Work with live filters, adjustments, and effects that can be modified or removed at any time.

2. RAW processing: Directly open and edit RAW files with advanced development tools.

3. HDR merge and tone mapping: Create stunning high dynamic range images.

4. Focus stacking: Combine multiple images for extended depth of field.

5. Panorama stitching: Seamlessly merge multiple photos into expansive panoramas.

6. Liquify tools: Warp, twirl, and reconstruct images with precision.

7. Advanced retouching tools: Including inpainting, dodge and burn, and frequency separation.

8. Digital painting: A wide array of brushes and painting tools for digital artists.

9. Macro recording: Automate repetitive tasks for increased productivity.



Affinity Photo | Color Management
Affinity Photo | Color Management

B. Unique advantages over Photoshop

While Affinity Photo matches many of Photoshop's capabilities, it also offers some unique advantages:


1. Performance: Affinity Photo is often praised for its speed, especially when working with large files or complex operations.

2. One-time purchase: At $69.99, it's significantly more affordable than Photoshop's subscription model.

3. Streamlined interface: Many users find Affinity Photo's interface more intuitive and easier to navigate.

4. Seamless integration: With StudioLink, you can access Affinity Designer tools directly within Photo.

5. No bloat: Affinity Photo focuses on core photo editing and digital painting features without excess rarely-used tools.

6. Regular updates: Free updates within the major version number, adding new features and improvements.



Affinity Photo | Panoramic
Affinity Photo | Panoramic

C. Real-world applications and case studies

Affinity Photo is being used by professionals across various industries:


1. Photography: Professional photographers use Affinity Photo for everything from basic edits to complex retouching and compositing. For example, wildlife photographer David Lochlin switched to Affinity Photo for its speed and affordability, noting no compromise in quality for his award-winning work.


2. Digital Art: Illustrators like Christi du Toit have embraced Affinity Photo for its powerful brushes and painting tools. Christi's vibrant digital paintings, created entirely in Affinity Photo, have been featured in international exhibitions.


3. Product Design: Companies like Adidas have incorporated Affinity Photo into their design workflow. Their product designers use it for quick mockups and detailed texture work on 3D renders.


4. Publishing: Magazines such as "ImagineFX" have successfully integrated Affinity Photo into their production pipeline, citing its compatibility with print workflows as a key advantage.


5. Film and VFX: Indie filmmakers are using Affinity Photo for tasks like poster design, matte painting, and even basic VFX work. The short film "The Shaman," which received critical acclaim at several film festivals, had its promotional materials created entirely in Affinity Photo.


As you progress in your design journey at VAC Centre, mastering Affinity Photo will equip you with skills that are increasingly valued in the industry, opening doors to diverse career opportunities in photography, digital art, and beyond.




Do you think that Tanzanian's Designers should learn Affinity Suite?

  • Yes, because Affinity Suite is the future.

  • No, because I belive Adobe is better.


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