Apple's Acquisition of Pixelmator: A New Chapter in Professional Photography Software

A Photographer’s Perspective on the Changing Landscape

As a long-time Pixelmator Pro user who recently returned to Adobe’s ecosystem for editorial work at Luminous Landscape, I’ve had the unique opportunity to witness the evolution of both platforms.  I also remember using Apple’s Aperture software at one point in my life.

This week’s announcement that Apple plans to acquire Pixelmator marks a significant shift in the professional photography software landscape, and signaling Apple’s deeper commitment to professional photographic creative tools.  I’ve enjoyed using Pixelmator Pro for awhile…It’s a lot like Photoshop.   

The Acquisition: Key Details

The Lithuanian-based Pixelmator Team, founded by brothers Saulius and Aidas Dailide, has agreed to join Apple, pending regulatory approval. This acquisition encompasses their entire suite of imaging applications, including Pixelmator Pro, Pixelmator for iOS, and Photomator. The Pixelmator Team’s journey from Vilnius, Lithuania to becoming a major player in professional photo editing software is a testament to how great they designed the program to use and perform.

Why Some Photographers Embraced Pixelmator Pro

For years, Pixelmator Pro has been more than just an rebellious alternative to subscription-based software like Adobe; it’s been a powerful ally for photographers seeking professional-grade editing capabilities. There are some key features that made have made it a great for me:

• Professional RAW Workflow: The software’s robust RAW processing capabilities have made it a viable option to have precise control over our images.
• Intuitive Interface: The thoughtfully designed user interface strikes a balance between accessibility and functionality. It’s intuitive if you’ve worked with other photo editing programs.
• Performance: Optimized specifically for macOS, the software handles large image files with good speed and stability.
• Apple Ecosystem Integration: Seamless integration with macOS features and iCloud has created an efficient workflow for Mac-based photographers. I haven’t used it though.

What to Watch: Future Implications

While Business Times reports that the acquisition aims to enhance Apple’s creative tools portfolio, particularly in AI-powered image editing, there are important things to us current users to think about:

Potential Subscription Model

Apple’s approach to professional creative software has evolved in recent years. While macOS versions of Final Cut Pro ($299.99) and Logic Pro ($199.99) remain one-time purchases, their iPad counterparts have moved to subscription models at $4.99 monthly or $49.99 annually. This pattern raises questions about Pixelmator’s future pricing structure.  It feels like Apple is  developing Pixelmator Pro, into pro level photography software that could one day lead to a subscription model.

Integration with Apple’s Ecosystem

Android Authority suggests that Apple may integrate Pixelmator’s technology into its native Photos app, potentially enhancing the default editing capabilities for all Apple users. This integration could mean more robust tools becoming available across the Apple ecosystem.  

With Apple’s recent focus with A.I. integration into their new operating system – it’s quite probable Pixelmator Pro could see some increased A.I. imaging tools within it’s already Mac friendly interface.  Or vice-versa.

Looking Forward

The Pixelmator Team has assured users that no immediate changes will affect current applications. However, this acquisition marks a significant moment in photography software development. As both a Pixelmator Pro user and someone who works within Adobe’s ecosystem, I see this as Apple’s clear signal of commitment to professional creative tools. The challenge will be maintaining the balance between subscription free and professional capabilities that made Pixelmator Pro great.  Is this the end of Pixelmator Pro?  

For now, photographers should continue their current workflows while watching how this develops. The future might bring more integrated, powerful tools for photographers and Apple enthusiasts, along with another subscription.

Sources cited in this article are available through the hyperlinks provided. All information is current as of the announcement date, November 1, 2024 ****

*** Correction: This is much more of a “Shallow” dive” announcement and about guessing what will happen with Pixelmator/Apple rather than a deep dive article. Team LuLa got carried away with the newsletter copy!

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