Lightroom app gets 'Authentic HDR' mode

Adobe Lightroom Authentic HDR

Adobe has updated Lightroom Mobile to version 2.7.0. The latest release adds a new feature described as "Authentic HDR" to Apple devices, and makes it possible to export original RAW images directly to the iOS camera roll. While the native Camera app includes its own HDR functionality, Adobe touts their raw HDR as a superior shooting mode.

Authentic HDR (high dynamic range) automatically captures three images at different exposures to be combined into one natural-looking photo. Lightroom aligns and de-ghosts the HDR output in RAW format, which ensures maximum image quality and editing flexibility. While the built-in iOS HDR mode works well, RAW capture is not an option and image processing and compression are used.

Other Lightroom updates include improvements to Creative Cloud syncing and rating of images. There's also shortcuts that make it easy to access the camera using 3D Touch. Even though Adobe offers the app for free, there are some functions that require a Creative Cloud subscription, such as syncing and importing RAW files from another camera.

Capturing RAW images requires the 12 megapixel camera found on the iPhone 6s, iPhone 7 or iPad Pro. Adobe Photoshop Lightroom for iPhone is available free on the App Store and requires iOS 9.3 or later to install.