The new Halide camera app launches with film looks and an upgraded photo editor

At a glance:

• Halide Mark III app launches with five new film Looks co-developed with Cullen Kelly
• Priced at $59.99 one-time or $19.99/year subscription, with free upgrade for Mark II users
• Adds RAW processing support from Sony, Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, Hasselblad, and Leica (beta)

Key Features: Film Looks and Photo Lab

The Halide Mark III app introduces five new film Looks designed for specific photography scenarios, including landscapes, portraits, cityscapes, and black-and-white shots with enhanced grain. These Looks, co-developed with Cullen Kelly—a Hollywood colorist—aim to replicate cinematic aesthetics directly in-camera. Users can apply them instantly while shooting, bypassing post-processing. The app also features a revamped Photo Lab editor, which simplifies adjustments with a Quick Edit section for applying Looks, toggling HDR, and exposure tweaks. For advanced users, the editor includes cropping, aspect ratio changes, white balance controls, and a Tone Fusion tool to recover details in shadows and highlights.

The Photo Lab’s interface prioritizes accessibility without sacrificing power. While basic edits are front-and-center, advanced options are tucked behind an iOS three-dot menu. This redesign keeps critical tools within reach for casual users while offering depth for professionals. The app’s focus on in-camera film simulation aligns with trends in mobile photography, where instant creative control is increasingly valued. However, purists might critique the shift from Mark II’s workflow, as Halide Mark III locks some advanced settings into menus rather than presenting them prominently.

Pricing and Accessibility

Halide Mark III is available immediately through the App Store for $59.99 as a one-time purchase or $19.99 annually via subscription. Existing Mark II users receive a free upgrade, which could ease adoption. The pricing model targets both casual and serious photographers, though the subscription fee may deter some. Notably, the app’s compatibility with iOS 18 and iPadOS 18 is a key requirement, which could limit its reach to newer devices. While iPads are technically supported, their limited camera hardware might restrict the app’s utility compared to smartphones. Lux Optics positions this as a niche offering, leveraging iPadOS’s larger screen for editing rather than photography.

Compatibility and Beta Features

The app requires iOS 18 or later for iPhones and iPadOS 18 or later for iPads, aligning with Apple’s latest OS updates. This exclusivity ensures a polished experience but excludes older devices. A standout beta feature is RAW processing support from major camera brands, including Sony, Nikon, Canon, Fujifilm, Hasselblad, and Leica. While Lux Optics labels this as experimental, it opens new possibilities for mobile photographers who rely on RAW workflows. DPReview notes that this functionality is still in development, suggesting potential refinements before a full rollout. The beta status also means users should expect occasional bugs or limitations in this area.

Interface Redesign and User Control

The interface overhaul in Halide Mark III aims to streamline workflows by consolidating critical controls. Users can access Looks, HDR, and exposure adjustments without navigating multiple menus. Advanced options, however, require tapping the three-dot menu, which some may find cumbersome. Importantly, existing Mark II users can revert to the older interface at any time, offering flexibility. This backward compatibility is a thoughtful touch, acknowledging that not all users may approve of the changes. The redesign reflects broader trends in mobile app design, where simplicity and speed are prioritized over exhaustive customization.

RAW Support and Future Implications

The addition of RAW processing from top camera manufacturers positions Halide Mark III as a versatile tool for hybrid workflows. By integrating RAW from brands like Sony and Canon, the app bridges the gap between mobile and professional photography. However, as a beta feature, its reliability and feature set remain uncertain. This move could attract photographers who previously used dedicated cameras but now seek a mobile solution. Lux Optics’ decision to include RAW support—even in beta—highlights its ambition to compete with established photo apps. If successful, this feature might become a standard offering, further cementing Halide’s role in the mobile photography ecosystem.

Conclusion

Halide Mark III represents a significant evolution for the app, blending cinematic film Looks with a modern photo editor. Its focus on in-camera creativity and RAW support targets both casual and professional users, though limitations like OS requirements and beta features may temper expectations. The app’s success will depend on how well it balances accessibility with depth, particularly as mobile photography continues to evolve. For now, it offers a compelling option for iOS users seeking advanced tools without leaving their devices.