“The Workflow is Now Complete”

Aftershoot’s biggest recent news is the completion of its end-to-end post-processing workflow, announced on May 28: “The Workflow is Now Complete.”

The company has evolved from an AI culling-focused tool into a full all-in-one platform for culling (Select), AI + manual editing (Edit), retouching (Retouch), and client delivery via Aftershoot Galleries. This shift eliminates the need to switch between multiple apps (e.g., Lightroom for editing/delivery).

Use coupon code RUMORS for a 15% discount at Aftershoot.

Here are the details:

Key Elements of the May 2026 Update

• Built-in RAW Editing: New dedicated RAW editor with manual tonal adjustments, batch processing, sliders, and fine-tuning of AI edits. You can now edit RAW files directly in Aftershoot and export JPEGs or TIFFs without leaving the app. This includes self-improving AI profiles that learn from your adjustments, plus pipeline tools such as advanced masking, denoising, object removal, HSL/color grading, and more precise cropping/straightening (including aggressive, subject-focused crops).
• Aftershoot Galleries (new, highlighted with “New” on the homepage): Integrated client delivery platform with 100 GB free storage. Features include built-in proofing, face detection/filtering by person, favorites, branded galleries, and direct export from Aftershoot (no re-uploads or downloads needed). It integrates print sales via labs like WHCC, Bay Photo, and Atkins Pro Labs. The goal is a better client experience than basic shares or Google Drive links.
• Culling (Select) Enhancements: Smarter duplicate/variation detection (distinguishes intentional variations from true duplicates, ~20% tighter culls), improved blur/closed-eye detection, key subjects prioritization, binary selection states, and “cull to target” (specify how many keepers you want). UI now clearly distinguishes AI Automated Cull vs. AI Assisted Cull.
• Editing & Retouching Improvements: More consistent white balance/exposure across albums, better before/after previews, enhanced acne/blemish/hair/glare detection with texture preservation, Background Replacement (beta with custom uploads), Cloth Dewrinkle, object removal, and subtle body reshaping. Retouching works on RAW files.

The update positions Aftershoot as a privacy-focused (local processing), non-destructive workflow tool that learns your style via training on your edits/presets or imported Lightroom profiles. It includes 30+ pro styles in the marketplace.

2026 Roadmap

Aftershoot also published its 2026 Roadmap (full AI Retouching rollout with one-click skin/hair/glare tools, advanced culling, smarter editing, and expanded creator styles/marketplace):

• Further AI refinements in culling (smarter technical detection, key subjects, cull-to-target).
• Enhanced editing (better profile accuracy, advanced masking/cropping, more marketplace styles with previews).
• Expanded RAW Editing (histogram, tone curves, deeper masking, etc.).
• More AI Retouching tools (one-click object removal, body reshaping, background removal, natural skin work).
• Aftershoot Gallery delivery enhancements (already live).
• Tethered shooting (sneak peek): Planned rock-solid tethering with fast/stable connections, broad camera support, auto-import/organization, on-set proofing, and instant gallery pushes. Not yet released.

The company claims users save significant time (e.g., 60+ days per year in repetitive work across their user base) while maintaining creative control and style consistency.

Pricing Updates

Aftershoot introduced more flexible modular pricing aligned with the complete workflow:

• Select (Culling): ~$10/mo (annual) or $15/mo.
• Edit: ~$30/mo (annual) or $35/mo.
• Retouch: ~$20/mo (annual) or $25/mo.
• Aftershoot Complete (Select + Edit + Retouch): ~$45/mo (annual, discounted) or $55/mo.
• Galleries: Currently free with 100 GB storage (future pricing TBD).

“AI that works for you, not against you”

Aftershoot recently issued a reassuring manifesto titled “AI That Works For You, Not Against You.” It directly addresses photographers’ fears that AI will replace them, emphasizing that the camera will always need a human behind it for intuition, light reading, and client connection. Aftershoot positions its AI as a supportive tool built by photographers for photographers – designed only to handle tedious tasks like culling and editing so you can spend more time shooting.

Aftershoot outlines three firm commitments: they will never create tools to replace you, they will always ask explicit permission before using your images (with easy opt-out or deletion), and they will build the product together with their Founders Community of photographers who help shape the roadmap. A personal note from founder Harshit explains how the company started in 2019 with a simple request to reduce culling time and has stayed true to its mission of returning time to creators ever since.

Via PhotoRumors.com

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Skylum has launched a new Luminar Summer Sale with discounts of up to 70%. The campaign runs June 5-28, 2026. Here are the details:

For new users:

• Desktop Perpetual – $119 / €99 + free Neo video course
• Cross-device Perpetual – $149 / €129 + free Neo video course
• MAX Perpetual – $164.99 / €134.99 + free Neo video course + free gift

For existing users:

• Cross-device Perpetual – $99.99 / €89.99 + free Neo video course
• MAX Perpetual – $109.99 / €99.99 + free Neo video course + free gift

Luminar Neo is an AI-powered photo editor that makes it easy to achieve professional results with simple and fast edits (available on both desktop and mobile). All plans are perpetual (one-time purchase) licenses with no subscriptions required. The Max plan unlocks the complete experience: desktop + mobile apps, plus access to the creative assets library (skies, overlays, LUTs, presets, and more to fuel your creativity). Here are the main benefits:

• AI-powered editing made simple
• Professional results with minimal effort
• Works across desktop + mobile
• Strong value with lifetime licenses

Via PhotoRumors

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Zeniko (Godox sub-brand) launched a new RF12 M round-head mini flash with a universal hot shoe, compatible with Ricoh and Pentax cameras.

Additional information:

• Price: $49.90
• Design: Round head with proprietary optics + included dome diffuser. Tilts up to 90° and swivels 270°. Ultra-light at 90g and pocketable.
• Power: 6 manual levels (1/32 to 1/1). Recycle time ~2.5s at full power. Modest but capable output for its size.
• Battery: Built-in 350mAh Li-ion. Up to 500 full-power flashes per charge. USB-C charging (~1h 10m).
• Triggering: Manual flash only. Built-in photocell with S1/S2 optical slave modes (S2 works with TTL cameras). No TTL or wireless radio.

New: Zeniko RF12 M round head mini flash for Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Olympus, and Pentax cameras

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PPPcameras now offers leatherette options for vintage Ricoh film cameras:

• Ricoh 500G leatherette
• Ricoh GR1 + GR1s leatherette

PPP Cameras is based in the UK, and they offer repair, repainting, customization, and accessories for Pentax and Ricoh cameras (additional information):

• PPP shop
• PPP repaints
• PPP film lab
• Book a repair
• Sell or trade

PPP Cameras offers repair, repainting, customization, and accessories for Pentax and Ricoh cameras

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Here are the latest Pentax/Ricoh US Spring savings:

• DSLR system
• Pentax 17: free film offer
• WG/G series

The post Pentax Spring Savings appeared first on Pentax & Ricoh Rumors.

Major 25% Lexar price increase coming on June 1st

DxO released new modules for the latest lenses from Nikon, Sigma, Tamron, Zeiss, and more

The latest photo deals in Germany

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The new Ricoh GR IV Monochrome camera is now in stock at B&H Photo:

The latest Ricoh GR IV camera accessories

Comparing the Ricoh GR IV vs. GR IV HDF vs. GR IV Monochrome cameras

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Several camera bag companies have Memorial Day deals:

• WANDRD: up to 40% off
• Gura Gear: up to 20% off
• Peak Design: up to 50% off
• ThinkTank: 15% off DarkLight sale
• Camera bags on sale at B&H Photo (all B&H Memorial Day photography deals can be found here)

Via NikonRumors

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Kimio Tanaka confirmed again that Pentax is developing a new DSLR camera (see previous posts):

A little while ago, I heard from someone that “Pentax is currently working on the development and design of the next model (apparently).” Of course, this refers to a new digital SLR camera product, but they said, “Even if it’s coming out, we’ll have to wait a while.” The true intentions are unclear, but for SLR camera enthusiasts, it’s happy news.

少し前のことだが「PENTAXは、いま、次機種の開発と設計をすすめている（らしい）」と、ある人からそんな話を聞いた。もちろんデジタル一眼レフカメラの新製品のことだが、「それが出てくとしても、しばらくは待たねばならぬ」とのこと。真意不明だが一眼レフカメラの好きな人にとってはウレシイ話。

— 田中希美男 (@thisistanaka) May 4, 2026

Kimio Tanaka: “I feel like it’s about time for Pentax to announce something, some new SLR camera”

Pentax is preparing to announce a new “serious and interesting” DSLR camera to replace the K-3 III

Via digicame-info

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The Ricoh GR IV Monochrome camera won the 2026 Camera GP Editors’ Choice Technology Award:

Ricoh GR IV Monochrome wins Camera GP 2026 Editors Choice Technology Award

TOKYO, May 15, 2026 －RICOH IMAGING COMPANY, LTD. is pleased to announce that the RICOH GR IV Monochrome has won the prestigious Camera GP 2026 Editors Choice TECHNOLOGY Award of the Camera Grand Prix 2026 in Japan.

The Camera Grand Prix2026 awards were selected from products released in the Japanese market between April 1,2025 and March 31,2026.

The Camera Grand Prix is decided by a vote by the Camera Grand Prix Executive Committee, which is elected every year. The Camera Grand Prix is selected by members of the Camera Journal Press Club, media managers affiliated with the Camera Grand Prix, external selection committee members commissioned by each media, and a special selection committee of scholars, camera mechanic writers, photographers, etc. commissioned by the Camera Grand Prix Executive Committee of that year. The Camera Grand Prix 2026 “Camera of the Year” and “Lens of the Year” were selected by a selection committee consisting of 57 people (including organizations).

In addition, this awards are given in five categories: Camera of the Year, Lens of the Year, the “Readers Award-Camera” and the “Readers Award-Lens”, which are decided by general user votes, and the “Editors Choice”, which is selected by Camera Journal Club (CJPC) members from all photography-related products.

The 2026 Camera Grand Prix 2026 awards are out

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The Pentax KF camera is marked as discontinued in several Japanese retailers:

• Camera Kitamura: Production discontinued
• Map Camera: Discontinued product, but still in stock.
• Bic Camera: Now on sale
• Yodobashi Camera: Limited stock available

In the US, the Pentax KF is available at B&H Photo and Amazon.

Via Asobinet

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The latest crowdfunding project by SPINN.DESIGN for a new ProWrapp Impact+ gear wrapper with max shock resistance will end in less than 36 hours.

SPINN.DESIGN is a Germany-based company in Offenbach specializing in innovative, high-quality camera accessories for protecting photography gear. Rooted in German engineering and design heritage, the company positions itself as a long-time product designer and manufacturer focused on premium, precision-crafted solutions for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, emphasizing durability, comfort, and thoughtful functionality over mass-market alternatives. Their flagship products include the SWIFT-LOCK and CP/CP.02 camera-carrying systems, along with the CW.01 and ProWrapp series of self-adhesive, weatherproof, and shock-resistant protective gear wrappers for cameras and lenses.

You can use the coupon code SPINN-RUMORS on their website to get a discount.

Here are the other active photography-related Kickstarter crowdfunding projects (some are still available as late pledges).:

• “I’m Back Roll” digital back sensor for film cameras
• Viperpod full-size tripod that doesn’t rely on the ground
• Reeflex 300–600mm telephoto lens for smartphones
• Rewindpix non-disposable digital “Film” camera
• CamCast turns your camera into a smart, connected system
• Yashica pocket camcorder

Via LeicaRumors

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Ricoh released its FY2025 financial results (fiscal year ended March 31, 2026). Here is the recap for the camera and imaging business listed under “other”:

• Cameras performed well and increased earnings, primarily driven by the Ricoh GR series.
• The segment overall reduced its operating loss through cost controls and robust camera sales, despite upfront investments in new businesses and a goodwill impairment in the drug discovery support business.

Camera Division Information

Ricoh’s camera business (Ricoh GR series digital cameras, Pentax cameras, 360° cameras, etc.) is not a standalone segment. It falls under the “Other” segment (which also includes environment, healthcare, drug discovery support, Smart Vision B2B solutions, and new business initiatives). Cameras are not part of the “Digital Products” segment (which covers MFPs, printers, scanners, and related OEM/production).

“Other” Segment Results (FY2025, external sales)

• Sales: ¥43.1 billion (+20.3% YoY)
• Operating loss: ¥(3.3) billion (improved ¥2.2 billion YoY)

Ricoh said the “Other” segment still posted an operating loss overall because of:

• Upfront investment in new businesses
• Goodwill impairment losses related to drug-discovery support operations

What this means:

• Ricoh GR remains the core driver of Ricoh’s entire camera business.
• Pentax remains strategically quiet in Ricoh’s official reporting – no revenue, unit, or performance commentary.
• Ricoh’s camera division is profitable and growing, but entirely GR‑led according to FY2025 disclosures.

Source

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The new 2026 5DayDeal “Photography Path To Mastery” is now available. As in previous years, you will get a package of photography tools at a drastically reduced price ($1,500+ in value for $78) and lifetime access to all class recordings. Several different bundles are available, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to charities.

• Lifetime access to all class recordings
• Exclusive extras and bonuses
• $1,500+ in retail value for just $78
• Part of every purchase goes to charity

Via NikonRumors

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OWC announced a memory card price increase, while B&H is running a sale on Lexar memory cards

LaCie just increased prices in the US by around 9-12%

ProGrade memory cards price increase coming on May 1st, others will follow

The “I’m Back Roll” digital back sensor for film cameras raised over $800k on Kickstarter

Topaz Labs added 6 new models across their photo and video apps (coupon code included)

The post What else is new? appeared first on Pentax & Ricoh Rumors.

Here are the latest photography-related Kickstarter crowdfunding projects:

New: Viperpod full-size tripod that doesn’t rely on the ground: $45,076 raised of $10,000 goal with 133 backers and 32 days to go.

NEW: ProWrapp Impact+ gear wrapper with max shock resistance: $34,926 raised of $6,416 goal by 329 backers with 14 days to go.

New: Reeflex 300–600mm telephoto lens for smartphones: $448,731 raised of $11,665 goal by 1,332 backers with 26 days to go.

“I’m Back Roll” digital back sensor for film cameras: $894,481 raised of $6,416 goal with 329 backers and 14 days to go. Additional information on this project can be found here and here.

Rewindpix non-disposable digital “Film” camera: $890,941 raised of $15,000 goal from 6,377 backers with 10 days to go.

CamCast turns your camera into a smart, connected system (late pledge available)

Yashica pocket camcorder (late pledge available)

Via NikonRumors

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→ DxO released Nik Collection 9 with new AI-enhanced tools, a completely reimagined approach to color grading, and a new generation of creative effects (additional information). New customers can get 15% off DxO products with code RUMORS.

→ DxO Labs released 833 new DxO camera and lens modules (additional information).

→ The latest updates from Topaz Labs can be found here. Topaz currently has 30% off sale through May 14th on their most popular products, including Topaz Studio, Topaz Photo, and Topaz Video (additional informtion).

→ Skylum released Luminar Neo version 1.27 (additional information). You can use the coupon code RUMORS for 10% off.

→ Information on Adobe’s April release:

• List of the latest camera support added
• List of the latest lens support added
• Fixed issues in Adobe Lightroom
• What’s new in Lightroom

→ The new Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve 21 adds photo editing, tethering, AI tools, and more.

Via NikonRumors

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Topaz Labs started a new 30% off sale through May 14th on their most popular products, including Topaz Studio, Topaz Photo, and Topaz Video:

New customers: Annual plans only, 30% off the first year

Returning customers: Annual plans only

The latest Topaz Labs updates

Via PhotoRumors

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October 2026 will mark the 30th anniversary of the Ricoh GR camera line:

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The Ricoh GR IV camera won the “Best APS-C compact camera” award at the 2026 TIPA Photo & Imaging Awards:

Ricoh Imaging announced that the RICOH GR IV was selected the BEST APS-C COMPACT CAMERA by the prestigious Technical Image Press Association (TIPA).

TIPA (Technical Image Press Association) has a worldwide membership of photo and imaging magazines from many countries and regions, primarily in Europe. Every year, it selects the best products in each category from among imaging-related products.

TIPA members noted the following details about the products:

BEST APS-C COMPACT CAMERA: RICOH GR IV

Housed in a compact magnesium alloy body, the RICOH GR IV delivers exceptional image quality in a truly pocketable form. Built around a high-performance APS-C sensor and sharp GR lens, it produces crisp detail, rich colour, and impressive dynamic range. Fast autofocus, responsive handling, eminent portability, and refined ergonomics make it ideal for street, travel, and everyday photography. Other standout features include 5 axis image stabilization, a built-in 2EV ND filter, a high maximum 1/16000 sec shutter speed (with the latest firmware) and a variety of customized presets. Its variant model, the RICOH GR IV HDF features a built-in “Highlight Diffusion Filter”, allowing photographers to switch instantly from classic clarity to a subtle cinematic glow.

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