Summary
In this video, Scott Davenport introduces the new resize improvements in Photo RAW 2026, specifically focusing on the newly integrated high-quality resize mode originally featured in the standalone Resize 2026 product by On1. Although Photo RAW 2026 is not yet officially released, Scott demonstrates the pre-release version and explains how the high-quality resize mode significantly enhances image enlargement results compared to the standard mode. Using a scanned film JPEG from 2002, he contrasts the two modes, highlighting how the standard resize offers decent speed and quality, while the high-quality mode, powered by AI, takes longer but produces more detailed, smoother, and artifact-free enlargements. Scott emphasizes the improved rendering of intricate textures such as wood grain, stonework, and architectural details, as well as better noise handling and shadow detail preservation. He recommends using the high-quality mode for important images where detail fidelity is paramount, despite the longer processing time. Finally, Scott shares a discount code for those interested in purchasing Photo RAW 2026 upon its release and encourages viewers to experiment with both resize modes.
Key Learning Points and Insights
- Integration of Resize 2026 into Photo RAW 2026
Insight: The standalone On1 Resize 2026 tool has been integrated into Photo RAW 2026, making advanced resizing features available within a broader photo editing workflow. - High-Quality Resize Mode Explained
Insight: The high-quality mode uses AI-driven algorithms to fill in detail gaps during upscaling, resulting in superior image clarity and smoothness compared to the faster standard mode. - Performance Differences Between Modes
Insight: The standard resize mode processes images quickly, typically under 15 seconds on older hardware, while the high-quality mode can take approximately one minute, reflecting a trade-off between speed and quality. - Improvement in Fine Detail Enhancement
Insight: The high-quality mode excels at enhancing smaller details such as wood textures, rivets, and architectural elements, which often appear blotchy or soft in standard resizing. - Noise Reduction and Texture Preservation
Insight: High-quality resizing effectively reduces noise and grain while preserving natural textures like water ripples and marble surfaces, offering a cleaner yet authentic look. - Shadow and Highlight Detail Retention
Insight: The high-quality mode better maintains shadow details, preventing the “munching” or loss of subtle dark-region textures that can occur in the standard mode. - Suitability for Legacy and Film Scans
Insight: This mode is particularly beneficial for older images, like film scans or low-resolution JPEGs, where original data is limited and detail recovery is essential. - User Experience and Workflow Recommendations
Insight: Scott suggests users first try the standard resize for quick previews and then run the high-quality mode for final output on images where detail is critical, recommending patience due to longer processing times. - Hardware Considerations
Insight: Processing times vary based on hardware; even on a seven-to-eight-year-old Mac, the high-quality mode’s time investment is reasonable given the output quality improvements. - Promotional Offer for Early Adopters
Insight: Scott provides a discount code (SDP10) for viewers to save on Photo RAW 2026 purchases, encouraging early adoption of the software with its new resizing capabilities.
Conclusion
Photo RAW 2026’s incorporation of the high-quality resize mode marks a significant advancement for photographers and image editors seeking superior enlargement results. By leveraging AI, this mode offers a substantial improvement in detail preservation, noise reduction, and texture clarity, especially for challenging legacy images. While it demands more processing time, the quality gains justify this investment for critical projects. Scott’s demonstration provides clear guidance on when and how to use each resize mode effectively within Photo RAW’s workflow, making this update a valuable tool for enhancing photographic output. With the added bonus of a discount code, users have an accessible way to explore these enhancements upon release.