<Cross-posted from post-processing forum>

A couple of months ago, I heard about "Polarr", a photo editing application, from another member on these forums. I've been using the free version since then for quick processing of files when I'm just playing around and don't want to use Lightroom, and I really like it. It covers a lot of the main processing capabilities of Lightroom, but without the library management and advanced editing features. The paid version of the app, "Polarr Pro", is usually $19 (or £15) and unlocks access to the noise reduction facility as well as providing a wide range of preset filters and effects including film-type emulations.

Importantly, the software reads .DNG and a variety of other RAW formats (Sony .ARW for example), and seems to do a very good job on RAW conversion. Naturally, it reads JPEG too if that's your preference.

I had been considering buying the Pro version to use on my Windows tablet, and went into the Windows Store today to check the price. Well, it seems there's a special offer on for the next 5 days - you can buy it for £1.49 (not sure what the dollar price is)!! Obviously I bought it, and I've been playing around with it for an hour or so. It's brilliant... really very good indeed. In fact, I think it's worth the normal asking price, so at this discounted price, it's a steal.

I'm not affiliated to the authors in any way. I'm just a satisfied user, and thought you folks here might be interested. I suggest you download the free version first to see if it does what you want.

[Rimfiredude]

I use the Chrome browser which has a basic but free version. Quite impressed but for use with jpg only. Nice for finishing touches.

[BigMackCam]

I'm using it straight from .DNG and .ARW files and it does a great job. The only thing I'm not keen on is that it seems to do a default level of colour and luminance noise reduction even in the Pro version that you can't get rid of. That said, it's pretty good noise reduction. All the basic controls for white balance, exposure, highlights / shadows / white & black points, clarity, saturation, tone curves etc. work really well. I've processed several photos from scratch with it very quickly. I like it

EDIT: The film emulations in the Pro version are great. A little extreme, but you can adjust how much they affect the base image. Anyway, they're fun - better than expected.

[aslyfox]

just got it for $1.99 through the Windows store

but horrors it is nonrefundable ?!?

I guess I will trust your judgment

5 days left on special

[BigMackCam]

just got it for $1.99 through the Windows store

but horrors it is nonrefundable ?!?

I guess I will trust your judgment

Ha ha Yeah, that's it - your money's gone now...

[aslyfox]

Ha ha Yeah, that's it - your money's gone now...

you should be warned

I don't get mad, I don't try to get even I get ahead

[Giklab]

Damn, first the free Xbox Borderlands collection, now this? What is this madness

[BigMackCam]

Damn, first the free Xbox Borderlands collection, now this? What is this madness

And it's not even Black Friday yet

[jimr-pdx]

Hm, this could be the Picasa replacement I seek for straightforward editing without Google strings attached. Thanks!

[Giklab]

Hm, this could be the Picasa replacement I seek for straightforward editing without Google strings attached. Thanks!

And yet, you gave your credit card details to Microsoft to buy this

[BigMackCam]

And yet, you gave your credit card details to Microsoft to buy this

I did mine through PayPal, so I have to log in for them to charge me... theoretically...