Adobe has released the final version of Lightroom 5, along with updates to its Camera Raw raw file processor and DNG Converter plug-ins.
The new version of Lightroom is the first to be released as either an individual licence of via a Creative Cloud subscription. New features in the latest version include an Advanced Healing Brush for removing image defects, a new Upright Tool for straightening and correcting perspective, a new Radial Gradient tool for creating off-centre vignette effects, Smart Previews that allow users to work with smaller stand-in files of full-size images and carry those edits to the originals. The latest version also adds the ability to produce video slide shows, LAB Colour info display, Windows HiDPI support and tethered support for the Nikon D600.
It is available as an upgrade for AU$99 (US$79) or through a Creative Cloud subscription at AU$49 per month from http://www.adobe.com/au/products/photoshop-lightroom/features.html. Trial downloads are available. A series of videos outlining key features of Lightroom 5 can be found at http://tv.adobe.com/show/getting-started-with-adobe-photoshop-lightroom-5/.
The latest version of Camera Raw (v. 8.1) adds support for a number of new cameras and includes several bug fixes. According to a report by Thom Hogan (http://www.bythom.com/) ” Creative Cloud users get a slightly different version of Camera Raw than do Photoshop CS6 users. Basically, Adobe will provide bug fixes and new camera/lens support for CS6 users, but add no new features as they will with Photoshop CC.”
