Black Friday Savings at Topaz Labs!Save as much as 65% and upgrade your imagery for only $458.97$159!
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Topaz Studio 2 makes the photo editing process much simpler.
Modifying your photos can be challenging and time-consuming, but in this Topaz Studio 2 assessment, I’m going to demonstrate how to edit your photos from basic adjustments to the most creative looks, in a swift and straightforward manner.
My personal experience using Topaz Studio 2 in my editing workflow can be condensed into two terms: straightforward and amazing. Besides regular adjustments, Topaz Studio 2 is the entrance to an artistic realm with endless opportunities.
To help you understand this software, I’ll guide you through the process of editing your photos with Topaz Studio 2 in its two versions: the Standalone and the plugin for Photoshop, breaking down the best filters, adjustments, and workflow.
If trying it appeals to you, remember the free Topaz Studio 2 trial version can be downloaded here, or to purchase check our Topaz Studio 2 discount!
- What is Topaz Studio 2?
- How to use Topaz Studio 2
- Topaz Studio 2 Filters
- Topaz Studio 2 Looks
- Using Topaz Studio 2 as an add-on for Lightroom
- Using the Topaz Studio 2 Plugin for Photoshop
- Topaz Studio 2 compared to other editing software
- Topaz Studio 2 Discount and Cost
- Meritorious and Deficient Facets of Topaz Studio 2
Table of Contents
What is Topaz Studio 2?
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Topaz Studio 2 can likewise be utilized as a plugin for Photoshop and Lightroom, amplifying the imaginative chances in your altering workflow.
You can watch this video showing the core features of Topaz Studio 2:
Now, we will delve into our review of the Topaz Studio 2. Let us see how it functions !
Topaz Studio 2 Tutorial – How to use Topaz Studio 2
Topaz Studio 2 is one of the simplest and easiest to utilize pieces of software that you can discover. If you face issues employing more intricate image tools like Photoshop, you’ll find that everything from the interface to the workflow is more instinctive and straightforward in Topaz Studio 2.
To begin, follow these straightforward steps to launch Topaz Studio 2:
- Download and install Topaz Studio 2: Access the Topaz Labs website to obtain the appropriate installation file for your Operating System, whether Windows or Mac OS. Run the installation process upon downloading the file, ensuring your device meets the minimum specifications required to use the software.
- Once installed, you should discover Topaz Studio 2 within your programs, as well as the Topaz Studio 2 plugins for Photoshop and Lightroom.
- To utilize Topaz Studio 2`s functions, one can simply sign in using their Topaz Labs account or start the 30-day evaluationif wanting to download the free version of Topaz Studio 2. (Upon acquiring a license, it’ll operate on up to two computers)
How Topaz Studio 2 works
Even though using this software is remarkably straightforward, below you can see a condensed summary of how to edit photos with Topaz Studio 2:
- Importing files:Topaz Studio 2 supports such file types as .png, .tiff, .jpeg, and also the commonly used kinds of RAW files. To open a photo, simply drag or access your file into it.
- Use the general tools like Heal and Crop to straighten and clean up your photos.
- Add “Editing Features” or “Visual Effects” to modify and include imaginative effects to your images.
- Utilize as many adjustments as necessary with non-destructive layers.
- Modify your photos selectively using the powerful masking tool.
- Keep in mind that you can only edit one photo at a time, so batch processing is unavailable.
- Export your edited photos: Click on export or navigate to File > Export to export your image. Don’t forget to change the output settings as desired. You can also save your project and continue working later.
For those just getting started with Topaz Studio 2 who get stuck on steps, I recommend checking the official Topaz Studio 2 manual.
Understanding how the powerful effects of “Filters” and “Looks” work is key to succeeding in enhancing photos with Topaz Studio 2. By combining these effects, you`ll boost and improve your images. Let`s analyze both effects thoroughly:
Topaz Studio 2 Filters
Topaz Studio 2 Filters provide endless imaginative possibilities. These modern filters utilize the latest AI technology from Topaz Labs, developing powerful adjustments in a simple and intuitive way
On the one hand, the Topaz Studio 2 Filters allow you to correct and modify your images using basic changes like brightness and contrast, exposure, curves, vibrancy, etc.
However, what’s interesting about Topaz Studio 2 is that it comes with imaginative artistic filters that you can employ to upgrade your image. There are over 30 filters classified into three distinct categories: Essential, Creative, and Stylistic.
One of the best features of using the Topaz Studio 2 Filters to edit photos is the fully customizable nature of the filters, with numerous subordinate adjustments and the potential to change the blending mode and transparency, akin to capabilities in Photoshop.
Also, Topaz Studio 2 offers you two new choices that are crucial in any image refining process:
- Completely non-destructive layers: This provides the chance to stack and mix as many filters as desired. You can return and modify them anytime without impacting the others.
- Selective alterations: Thanks to the new AI-assisted masking tool, you can now apply your filters solely to specific regions of your image. There are 5 different ways to do it (brush, spot, gradient, color, and brightness).
The Topaz Studio 2 Filters that I utilize most often fall under the Essential category. These post-processing filters have been updated after being available for years in the previous Topaz Studio plugin for Photoshop . Some of them are renowned within the photography community, being employed by some of the best photographers in the world like Enrico Fossati. Let’s examine them:
- AI Clear: This digital noise removing filter developed by Topaz Labs enhances photo details while eliminating unwanted static.
- Precision Contrast Adjustment: It permits implementing micro-level balance in photographs using luminosity levels.
- Precision Detail: It enhances natural detail to generate more depth in your images.
- Black and White: Topaz Studio 2 incorporates this tool, allowing full customization of monochrome conversion for enhanced tone and texture.
My workflow using Topaz Studio 2 is quite straightforward and productie. I start applying basic and general changes and continue with neighborhood modifications by using layer masks. If I want my photos to stand out with a more inventive look, I try diverse filters from the Resourceful and Stylistic parts like Blur, Blum, or Glow. Bear in mind that you can use the Topaz Studio healing and crop instruments whenever you require them.
Let’s examine the before and after of a few examples utilizing the Topaz Studio 2 Filters:
Edit using filters in Topaz Studio 2
Topaz Studio 2 Looks
It is also possible to take advantage of a pre-prepared mixture of the filters known as the “Topaz Studio looks”. These effects represent Topaz Labs’ most recent upgrade to what they had previously called the Topaz Studio Presets in their earlier version of this software. Topaz Studio 2 includes over 200 styles, organized into 15 distinct groups.
To attain the best outcomes using the Topaz Studio 2 Looks, the key is manually adjusting every filter contained in that specific look. Once selecting a look, a new folder will form with the various filters inside. Remember that Topaz Studio Filters can be entirely personalized and applied selectively using layer masks.
In general, these Topaz Studio 2 Looks are quite strong and by default, they “overdo” the edit, so my recommendation is using the Looks subtly by decreasing the opacity.
In addition, Topaz Studio 2 permits you to craft your own appearances. To do so, click on “save look” once you`re satisfied with your assembled set of filters and supply a name and description to store it. Moreover, you can save your favorite Studio 2 Looks to readily find and apply them.
Let’s examine this other photo edited with a mixture of Topaz Studio 2 Filters and Looks.
Editing with presets in Topaz Studio 2
Using Topaz Studio 2 as a plugin for Lightroom
Modifying your images in Lightroom utilizing Topaz Studio 2 is presently attainable due to the latest update from Topaz Labs. The advantages of employing Topaz Studio 2 with Lightroom are substantial since you can unite all the organizational and editing tools of Lightroom with the innovative creative effects supplied by the Topaz Studio 2 filters and styles.
Regretfully, the Topaz Studio 2 plugin for Lightroom is not incorporated automatically to Lightroom during the installation procedure. To accomplish this, follow these basic steps:
- Go to Preferences in Lightroom > External Editor
- In Additional External Editor, click on Choose and search and select Topaz Studio 2.
- Click on Preset and select “Save current settings as New Preset”
Once the previous steps are finished, to launch Topaz Studio 2 in Lightroom, simply right click on your image and select Edit in > Topaz Studio 2, opting to edit a copy of your original file.
Be cognizant that if Topaz Studio 2 is currently open, it won’t function. Upon accepting the edited image in Topaz Studio 2, clicking on accept will automatically display the newly edited file in your Lightroom Library.
Edit using Topaz Studio 2 as a plugin for Lightroom
Using Topaz Studio 2 as a plugin for Photoshop
Topaz Studio 2 can also be employed as a plugin for Photoshop, and personally I think that using Topaz Studio 2 in this way is the best option. This Topaz Studio 2 Photoshop plugin should be included automatically in your filters in Photoshop after the installation process. However, if it hasn’t been installed, you may need to do it manually.
The benefits of editing your photos in Photoshop with Topaz Studio 2 are plentiful, enhancing the innovative Topaz Studio 2 AI filters with the most sophisticated Photoshop processing tools.
Also, having the option to employ Topaz Studio 2 within Photoshop, you can access all the editing tools required within a sole program, preserving time and minimizing the number of documents.
To access Topaz Studio 2 in Photoshop go to Filter > Topaz Studio 2 > Topaz Studio 2
Though Topaz Studio 2 plays an important role in my editing workflow using Photoshop, there is still room for development. The primary thing I’m missing is having the ability to use Topaz Studio 2 as smart filters, granting the potential to go back and alter the changes. Other creative plugins provide this option, like the Nik Collection 3 Filters, and I hope Topaz can execute this in potential updates.
Edit utilizing Topaz Studio 2 as an expansion for Photoshop
Topaz Studio 2 vs other editing software
As we’ve examined in this Topaz Studio 2 assessment, there are boundless changing alternatives with this programming. Yet, how does it perform looked at with other mainstream post-preparing pieces of programming? Let’s investigate!
Topaz Studio 2 vs. Lightroom
Lightroomis another excellent and straightforward editing tool that also offers a Library/Catalog for sorting and organizing images. Unlike Lightroom, Topaz Studio 2 lacks any organization features. Another Lightroom capability not included in Topaz Studio 2 is batch processing.
On the other hand, Topaz Studio 2 is more affordable, has non-destructive layers, and all the adjustments are fully customizable.
Topaz Studio 2 vs. Luminar 4
Luminar 4is solid software containing everything required to edit your images, along with AI-powered adjustments. The primary benefit of utilizing Luminar is the library module for organizing your images and new advanced tools like sky replacement.
In contrast, Topaz Studio 2 is significantly more intuitive and user-friendly, offering an easy way to apply all the effects and expanded customization choices. Additionally, Topaz Studio 2 includes more styles than Luminar 4.
Topaz Studio 2 vs. Nik Collection 3
Nik Collection 3 is a powerful and fast package of image editing plugins to improve photographs in post-production. Some of these plugins are quite popular within the expert photography community, like Color Efex Pro. One aspect of Nik that I do not find in Topaz Studio 2 is the capacity to apply filters as smart objects as mentioned above.
The main difference when comparing Topaz Studio 2 vs Nik Collection 3 is that you can selectively apply adjustments with Topaz Studio 2 using their advanced concealing tool. The selective tools in Nik are very old-fashioned and need to be updated. It also offers more filters and looks than Nik Collection 3.
If you want a more thorough examination of these 2 software programs, I suggest checking our Nik Collection 3 assessment.
Topaz Studio 2 vs. Topaz Studio
Topaz Studio 2 offers a redesigned process for editing photographs based on non-destructive layers powered by the latest AI tools from Topaz Labs, such as masking.
The pricing scheme has also drastically changed, with a single payment of $99 for Topaz Studio 2. Whereas previously with Topaz Studio, you had to pay for each plugin you wanted to utilize.
Topaz Studio 2 vs. Denoise AI & Sharpen AI
While Topaz Studio 2 includes a tool designated AI Clear to reduce digital noise and enhance original detail, Topaz Labs presents two dedicated pieces of software to tackle these common problems in photography: Topaz Denoise AI and Sharpen AI. These two specific tools are far more powerful and advanced than AI Clear, but at the same time, they are also more expensive and resource-intensive than Topaz Studio 2.
We have also assessed Denoise AI and Sharpen AI, so I highly recommend taking a look at these guides, downloading the three tools with the 30-day free trial, and comparing your own results. Based on my experience, AI Clear is an excellent tool but Denoise AI and Sharpen AI are simply the best suited for those specific tasks .
Topaz Studio 2 Coupon and price
The price of Topaz Studio 2 is USD $99.99 for a lifetime license. It offers an affordable option compared to other popular digital image editing tools like Photoshop or Lightroom considering the AI-Powered functions and solid updates provided by Topaz Labs.
If you are considering using this potent software program, you can employ our Topaz Studio 2 discounted code to benefit from 15% off your purchase.
15% OFF Topaz Labs with the code CAPTUREATHOME15
Black Friday Savings at Topaz Labs!Save as much as 65% and upgrade your imagery for only $458.97$159!
HOLIDAY PROMO
25% Sitewide Discount
15% OFF with the code CAPTUREATHOME15
Additionally, if photography is of interest to you, I highly recommend the recently released Topaz Photo AI program which includes a basic version of DeNoise AI,Sharpen AI, and Gigapixel AI to automatically enhance the quality of your photographs. I advise checking out our comprehensive Topaz Photo AI evaluation.
Topaz Studio 2 Pros and Cons
Before concluding this Topaz Studio 2 review, let’s summarize the Pros and Cons of Topaz Studio 2.
Topaz Studio 2 Pros
- AI-Powered Tools that produce a change.
- User-friendly interface as well as a clear yet capable workflow.
- Over 30 varied advanced filters and more than 200 appearance options.
- Fully non-destructive layers and powerful masking options.
- Continuous updates by Topaz Labs.
- Compatible plugins for editing programs Lightroom and Photoshop.
- 30-day free trial.
Topaz Studio 2 Cons
- High System Requirements: Topaz Studio 2 can be slow due to the AI-Powered tools and it can cause some bugs while masking.
- The Navigator and the histogram can`t be opened simultaneously.
- Batch Processing and opening multiple files simultaneously are unavailable.
- The Interface cannot be customized, unlike other editing software tools.
- The effects don’t function as “filters that are smart” in Lightroom or Photoshop.
Conclusion – Is Topaz Studio 2 worth it?
Topaz Studio 2 is one of the finest tools to creatively modify your photos in a straightforward and instinctive manner. The Artificial intelligence tools utilized by Topaz Labs can make the method a bit gradual, but this also depends on your machine. Using the Topaz Studio 2 filters and looks, you can take your imagery to an entirely new creative level.
With the most recent modification of Topaz Studio 2 adding non-destructive adjustments with layers and masking, it’s not just a powerful extra tool worth considering in your post-processing but even a substitute for other complex software if you favor maintaining things straightforward.
I hope you found this Topaz Studio 2 assessment informative. Don’t forget that you can test it out using the free Topaz Studio 2 trial.
15% OFF Topaz Labs with the code CAPTUREATHOME15
Black Friday Savings at Topaz Labs!Save as much as 65% and upgrade your imagery for only $458.97$159!
HOLIDAY PROMO
25% Sitewide Discount
15% OFF with the code CAPTUREATHOME15
If you have any inquiries, feel liberated to render them within the remarks and I’ll be pleased to assist!
Happy editing!
