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TL;DR - Capture One

  • Professional photo editing software by Phase One with custom RAW support for 650+ cameras
  • Industry-leading color grading with four different clarity algorithms and automatic lens correction
  • Tethering support for 200+ cameras with fully customizable workspace and floating tool panels
Pricing: Paid only
Best for: Enterprises & pros
4.6/5 across review platforms

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Superior color science
  • Tethered capture
  • Pro workflows

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Steep learning curve

Ratings Across the Web

4.6(140 reviews)

Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more

Key Features

Photo editingRAW processingTethered shootingColor gradingBatch editingProfessional tools

Pricing Plans

Free Trial

Pro

Subscription

  • Precision editing
  • Best-in-class tethering
  • 550+ camera support
  • Continuous updates
  • Perpetual option available

All in One

Subscription

  • All Pro features
  • iOS mobile app
  • Cloud collaboration
  • Priority support
  • Best value tier

Studio

Subscription

  • All features included
  • Offline collaboration
  • Multiple viewer screens
  • Automated cropping
  • Tool locks

What is Capture One?

Editorial review
Capture One is professional photo editing software known for exceptional RAW processing and color grading. Tethered shooting capabilities make it the choice of commercial and studio photographers. Powerful layers and local adjustments provide precise control. Session and catalog organization options fit any workflow. Available as perpetual license or subscription. When photographers demand the best quality, they choose Capture One.

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Capture One FAQ

What makes Capture One better than Lightroom for some photographers?

Capture One is known for superior color science and rendering, more powerful layer-based adjustments, better tethered shooting for studio work, and a more customizable interface. Many fashion, product, and commercial photographers prefer its precision and color accuracy.

Can I buy Capture One as a perpetual license?

Yes, Capture One offers both subscription (with continuous updates) and perpetual licenses (one-time purchase for current version). The perpetual license costs around 373 dollars and includes the version at time of purchase but not future major updates.

Does Capture One support my camera brand?

Capture One supports most major camera brands including Sony, Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, Phase One, and others. They also offer discounted versions specifically for Sony and Fujifilm cameras. Check their website for specific camera support.

What is Capture One Live?

Capture One Live allows you to share a live view of your photo session with clients remotely. They can see images as you shoot, rate favorites, and leave comments. This is useful for remote client approvals during commercial shoots.

Is there a mobile app for Capture One?

Yes, Capture One has mobile apps for iOS that sync with your desktop catalog. You can cull, rate, and make basic edits on the go. Mobile features are included in the All-in-One subscription plan.

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