Full details for Darkroom App
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Darkroom is a photo and video editor for iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. It provides non-destructive editing with curves, masks, color grading, and batch processing for photos and videos in your Apple Photos library, with no import required. All editing tools can be tried for free, and export requires a Darkroom+ membership. Community presets and advanced features are available across all supported Apple devices.
Review
At a glance
Darkroom is a photo and video editor designed exclusively for Apple platforms, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Vision Pro. It offers a non-destructive workflow, allowing users to edit photos and videos directly from their Apple Photos library without the need for import. The app provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools, including curves, masks, color grading, and batch processing. All editing features can be tried for free, with export functionality requiring a Darkroom+ membership. Community presets and advanced features are available, and the app is regularly updated with new capabilities. Darkroom is positioned as a powerful yet accessible tool for both enthusiasts and professionals who work within the Apple ecosystem.
Capabilities
Darkroom supports editing of both photos and videos, including RAW and ProRAW formats, directly from the Apple Photos library. The app features advanced tools such as unconstrained curves, AI-backed masks for local adjustments, color grading wheels, selective color, and bloom and halation effects. Batch processing allows users to apply edits across multiple files efficiently. Community presets are available for quick style application, and users can create, share, and sync their own presets across devices. The app also supports metadata editing, watermarking, and export options with control over format, quality, and metadata. Darkroom is available in 16 languages and supports Family Sharing for Darkroom+ memberships.
Workflow
The workflow in Darkroom is centered around non-destructive editing, meaning all changes are reversible and the original files remain untouched until export. Users can start editing immediately upon opening the app, as there is no need to import files—everything is accessed directly from the Apple Photos library. Edits can be copied and pasted across files, and batch actions streamline repetitive tasks. Export options include saving over the original, creating copies, or sharing directly to other apps and services. The app integrates with iCloud for preset and edit syncing, and supports Shortcuts automation for advanced workflows. On Mac, some features such as custom app icons require manual setup, but the core editing experience is consistent across platforms.
Strengths
Darkroom's strengths include its seamless integration with the Apple Photos library, eliminating the need for import and making it easy to start editing. The app's non-destructive workflow ensures that users can experiment freely without risk to their originals. Advanced editing tools such as curves, masks, and color grading are available to all users for trial, with export gated behind a membership. Batch processing, community presets, and automation support further enhance productivity. The app is regularly updated with new features, and its availability across all major Apple platforms makes it a versatile choice for users invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Limitations
Darkroom is limited to Apple platforms and is not available for Android or Windows. Some features are not yet available, such as true resizing/upscaling, playback for Live Photos, ProRes video processing, HDR editing, and slow-motion video editing. On Mac, custom app icons must be set manually, and some export helpers are iOS-focused. Exporting edits that use premium tools requires a Darkroom+ membership, and while all editing tools can be tried for free, export is restricted without a subscription or one-time purchase. Legacy purchases made before 2020 do not include access to features introduced after 2022.
Best for
Darkroom is best suited for photographers and videographers who use Apple devices and want a powerful, integrated editing solution. Its non-destructive workflow, advanced editing tools, and seamless access to the Apple Photos library make it ideal for users who value efficiency and creative control. The app is also well-suited for those who appreciate community-driven presets and regular feature updates. Teams and families can benefit from Family Sharing support for Darkroom+ memberships.
Value and verdict
Darkroom offers a compelling value proposition for Apple users seeking a robust photo and video editing solution. The ability to try all editing tools for free lowers the barrier to entry, and the non-destructive workflow ensures user confidence. The app's advanced features, batch processing, and community presets provide flexibility and creative potential. While export of premium edits requires a paid membership, the app's regular updates and cross-device support justify the investment for serious users. Darkroom stands out as a top choice for Apple-centric photographers and videographers who want a modern, efficient, and feature-rich editing experience."
Key features
- Photo editing
- Video editing
- Batch processing
- RAW and ProRAW support
- Curves and color grading
- AI-backed masks and local adjustments
- Metadata editing
- Export options
- Community presets
- Watermarking
- Custom app icons (manual on Mac)
- Shortcuts automation
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