ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2: Enhancements and Features for Better Workflow Efficiency

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 is officially available as a free update for all current owners of Photo RAW 2026. This major update focuses on increasing workflow efficiency, enhancing AI capabilities, and providing a more streamlined user experience. Here’s a breakdown of the new features and improvements:

Enhanced AI Face Restoration for Portraits

One of the standout enhancements in this update is the optimized AI Face Restoration feature integrated within Resize AI. This upgraded model significantly improves detail and accuracy in specific areas important for portrait photography:

• Enhancement of facial features such as teeth, eyes, and glasses
• Better rendering for smaller or distant faces
• Preservation of natural texture and skin detail

This enhancement is particularly beneficial for portrait photographers who often deal with older, low-resolution images. As many photographers understand, older photographs can suffer from various deficiencies in detail. Users can expect higher-quality outputs with fewer artifacts, which directly impacts the overall aesthetics of portrait photography. The results are not just visually appealing but can also help preserve the essence and character of the subjects’ expressions, making the portraits feel more authentic.

Introducing Module Tips: A Guide for New Users

For those new to the platform, the 2026.2 version now features Module Tips — these short onboarding dialogues are designed to guide users through each module's functions. Such an initiative doesn't just accelerate the learning curve for beginners; it also aids seasoned photographers in discovering tools they may have previously overlooked. This might surprise many; every so often, we underestimate the power of a little guidance. If you're working in this space, you know that every extra second saved can lead to a smoother workflow, making these tips valuable for both inexperienced and long-time users alike.

Faster Exports and Improved Export Presets

Speed is paramount in photo editing, and ON1 has responded with faster export times. This improvement is particularly beneficial when working with large raw files or during batch processing, which can often become tedious. The export presets have undergone a redesign, focusing on making them easier to create, organize, and apply. These enhancements save professional photographers and high-volume shooters critical time, especially when dealing with numerous files. Being efficient isn't just about getting things done; it’s about having the freedom to be creative with your time. So this could be a pivotal improvement for many users.

New Camera RAW Support

ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 broadens its capabilities by adding RAW support for the following camera models:

• Leica M EV1
• Sony FX 30

This new support is essential for photographers utilizing these specific models, allowing them to work with RAW files natively within the software. IS this support enough? Some industry observers feel that not all popular models are included. Nevertheless, for those who own these cameras, the added compatibility simplifies the editing process substantially, ensuring that photographers can maximize the quality of their images right from the start.

Expanded Lens Profiles for Optical Corrections

A key aspect of photo editing is ensuring that optical corrections are applied correctly. ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 now includes new lens profiles for improved support. High-quality optical correction can enhance image clarity and eliminate unwanted distortions, which is a significant concern for many photographers. The newly added lens profiles include:

Canon:

• EF 20–35mm f/3.5–4.5 USM
• RF 10–20mm f/4L IS STM

Fujifilm:

• XF 16–50mm F2.8–4.8 R LM WR

Mamiya/Sekor:

• SX 55mm f/1.8

Minolta:

• MD 24mm f/2.8
• MD 45mm f/2

Nikon:

• Z 70–180mm f/2.8
• AF-S DX 55–200mm f/4–5.6G ED VR II

OM System:

• OM 12–100mm F4.0

Pentax:

• Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 400mm f/5.6
• smc Pentax-M 28mm f/2.8
• HD PENTAX-D FA 21mm F2.4 ED Limited DC WR

Other brands:

• Auto Petri 55mm f/1.8
• TTArtisan E 23mm f/1.8
• Tamron AF 18–400mm f/3.5–6.3 Di II VC HLD
• Viltrox 15mm f/1.7 E
• Yashica ML 55mm f/4 Macro
• Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 180mm f/2.8 MMJ

Providing support for a variety of lenses reinforces the software's commitment to comprehensive functionality. The more lenses that are supported, the greater the satisfaction of their user base, particularly among enthusiasts who often mix different brands and models.

Stability Enhancements and General Refinements

This update reflects ON1’s commitment to enhancing the user experience through increased stability across the application. Users will notice refinements in the user interface, responsiveness, and a series of bug fixes that improve smooth day-to-day operations. These adjustments help elevate overall performance, especially during those intensive editing sessions when every second counts. The importance of reliability cannot be overstated, particularly in a professional setting.

Implications and Future Outlook

With all these enhancements, ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 positions itself as a significant tool for both novice and professional photographers looking to maximize efficiency in their editing processes. The focus on AI and user experience is commendable, as these are increasingly factors that determine a software's success. The inclusion of more technical stability and diverse camera support implies an understanding of modern photographers' needs. However, only time will tell if this update will resonate deeply with its user base or fade without leaving a mark. Nevertheless, the trajectory they’re on suggests they’re aiming to meet substantive demands in a competitive market.

For more information, you can explore the official ON1 page. The post ON1 Photo RAW 2026.2 now available appeared first on Photo Rumors.