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AI Photo Editing Tools: Which Should Designers Use?

2/2/2026 · Creative Tools · 8 min

AI Photo Editing Tools: Which Should Designers Use?

TL;DR

  • AI photo editors can speed up retouching, background removal, masking, color grading, and upscaling.
  • Cloud services offer powerful models and instant results but may carry subscription fees and privacy tradeoffs.
  • Local tools run on your GPU and keep images private; best if you work with RAW files and need repeatable scripts.
  • Best picks by use case:
  • Fast web and social edits: cloud-based editors with templates and smart crops.
  • Professional retouching and RAW workflows: local AI tools with plugin support for Lightroom and Photoshop.
  • Batch processing and upscaling: tools with command line or API access.

What these tools do

  • Background removal and subject selection using segmentation models.
  • Smart retouch: skin smoothing, detail enhancement, and object removal.
  • Color and tone mapping: auto color grading and LUT suggestions.
  • Upscaling and denoising: AI upscalers that add perceptual detail without obvious artifacts.

Output quality

  • Cloud models often lead in fidelity because providers host large models and update them regularly.
  • Local models are improving fast and can match cloud quality with the right GPU and current model weights.
  • RAW support matters: if you shoot RAW, prefer tools that preserve RAW metadata and allow non-destructive edits.

Speed and hardware

  • Cloud: near-instant for single images and fast for small batches; device cost is minimal.
  • Local: requires a recent GPU for large models; faster for privacy-sensitive batch jobs once configured.
  • Mobile: many AI features are available on-device for quick edits, but quality may be lower than desktop options.

Workflow integration

  • Plugins for Lightroom and Photoshop save time and preserve catalog metadata.
  • API or command line tools let studios automate batches and integrate with DAM systems.
  • Export formats: choose tools that export 16-bit TIFF or high-quality JPEG for final delivery.

Pricing and licensing

  • Subscription cloud plans suit freelancers who want predictable monthly costs.
  • Per-image pricing can be cheaper for occasional use.
  • Local tools often have one-time licenses or tiered activations; check commercial use clauses for models and assets.

Privacy and on-premise options

  • Cloud processing uploads images to third-party servers - avoid for sensitive client work unless contracts and policies are clear.
  • Local installations or private cloud VMs give control over data and are recommended for client confidentiality.

Which should you choose?

  • Choose cloud-first if you need speed, templates, and low upfront cost.
  • Choose local-first if you handle sensitive images, need RAW fidelity, or want automation without recurring fees.
  • Hybrid workflows pair well: use local tools for master RAW edits and cloud tools for quick social exports and creative variations.

Buying checklist

  • RAW and non-destructive workflow support.
  • Plugin or API availability for your editing pipeline.
  • Output resolution and upscaling quality.
  • Batch and automation capabilities.
  • Pricing model that matches your workload.
  • Privacy terms and data handling policies.
  • GPU requirements if running locally.

Bottom line

AI photo editing tools boost productivity and can improve final images, but choose based on workflow needs. For design professionals who prioritize image fidelity and client privacy, local or hybrid solutions with plugin support are usually the best investment. If speed and ease are the priority, cloud services deliver instant gains and lower setup friction.

Found this helpful? Check our curated picks on the home page.