Corel AfterShot Pro 3 is a photo editing software that focuses on simplicity and speed, catering to photographers who appreciate a streamlined, no-frills approach. The software’s goal is to deliver efficient editing tools without overwhelming users with excessive features. It is well-suited for photographers who prefer performance over unnecessary complexity. This review explores whether AfterShot Pro 3 still stands strong in the competitive landscape of photo editing software, especially with constant updates and new releases from other brands. After testing the software, we evaluate its performance, features, and overall usability compared to the competition in 2025.
Overview of Corel AfterShot Pro 3
Corel AfterShot Pro 3 is a RAW image processing software that offers a no-frills approach to photo editing, making it an attractive option for photographers who prefer simplicity, speed, and essential tools over a complicated, feature-heavy interface. Designed with ease of use and performance in mind, AfterShot Pro 3 caters to photographers who need to efficiently organize and edit their images without getting bogged down by unnecessary options. Its lightweight design, both in terms of system resources and storage requirements, ensures that it can run smoothly even on older or less powerful hardware, such as compact laptops. This makes it a practical choice for those who do not have access to high-end computers but still require reliable photo editing software.
Despite being released in 2016, and with its last update in 2021, Corel AfterShot Pro 3 remains a viable choice for many photographers, particularly those who prioritize speed and simplicity in their workflow. It stands out in the crowded market of photo editing software by focusing on providing essential tools for RAW image processing, which is the cornerstone of digital photography. While it doesn’t boast cutting-edge features or the most extensive set of editing tools, it excels in delivering the core functions needed for quick photo editing and large-scale image organization.
The appeal of AfterShot Pro 3 is rooted in its minimalist design. Unlike more feature-heavy programs like Adobe Lightroom, which are packed with advanced tools for professional photographers, AfterShot Pro 3 strips away the non-essential features and focuses on what photographers need most. For photographers who simply need to adjust their images for color, contrast, exposure, and other basic edits, AfterShot Pro 3 is a great option that won’t overwhelm them with unnecessary functionality. This simplicity, however, may not be suitable for advanced users who require a wider array of tools for complex editing tasks.
One of the primary benefits of AfterShot Pro 3 is its speed. The software is designed to process RAW files quickly, allowing photographers to move through large batches of images without experiencing significant lag or delays. This makes it particularly useful for photographers who need to work quickly, such as photojournalists, event photographers, or those who shoot high volumes of images on a regular basis. The ability to quickly edit and cull photos is an essential feature for these photographers, and AfterShot Pro 3 delivers on that front with its fast performance.
Despite its lightweight nature, AfterShot Pro 3 does not compromise on essential editing and organizational tools. It offers the basic adjustments needed for most photographers, including exposure correction, white balance, tone adjustments, and noise reduction. These tools are all easily accessible within the software’s intuitive interface, which is designed to make editing as quick and efficient as possible. For photographers who don’t need the full array of features found in more advanced programs, AfterShot Pro 3 provides everything needed to get the job done.
Key Features and Performance of Corel AfterShot Pro 3
Corel AfterShot Pro 3 is an effective RAW image processor with a set of core features that will appeal to photographers looking for basic but efficient photo editing. Its speed and simplicity are its standout qualities, making it a great option for photographers who need a tool for quickly processing and editing large volumes of images. The software is particularly well-suited for those who require fast image organization, culling, and basic adjustments, rather than complex, high-end editing tools.
One of the key features of AfterShot Pro 3 is its RAW image processing capabilities. RAW files are essential for photographers who want to retain maximum image quality and detail when editing their photos, and AfterShot Pro 3 does an excellent job of handling RAW files. The software allows users to make basic adjustments to exposure, contrast, white balance, and more, while maintaining the high-quality data embedded in RAW files. The results are solid, though not as finely tuned as other software like Lightroom or Capture One, which offer more advanced editing features. Nevertheless, AfterShot Pro 3’s RAW processing is sufficient for most everyday photo editing needs, and its speed in processing large batches of images sets it apart from other programs.
AfterShot Pro 3’s file management capabilities are another significant strength. The software includes a variety of sorting and tagging options to help users keep track of their images and quickly find what they’re looking for. Photographers can organize their photos by file name, date, rating, or even camera settings, which helps streamline the process of managing a large volume of images. Additionally, AfterShot Pro 3 offers rating systems, such as color coding and star ratings, that allow photographers to quickly sift through and sort their images based on personal preferences. This is especially useful when working with a large number of photos, as it enables photographers to quickly identify the best shots and eliminate the ones they don’t want to keep.
Another standout feature of AfterShot Pro 3 is its speed. The software boasts faster RAW processing than its competitors, which is a big advantage for photographers who need to work efficiently and process large numbers of images quickly. When dealing with hundreds or even thousands of photos, AfterShot Pro 3’s speed makes it possible to complete the editing process much faster than with other software. This speed also extends to the overall user experience, as AfterShot Pro 3 runs smoothly without significant lag or delays, even on older hardware. For photographers working on-the-go, this fast processing speed can be a game-changer, as it allows them to edit and organize their photos quickly and efficiently.
Despite its emphasis on simplicity, AfterShot Pro 3 does not skimp on key editing tools. The software includes basic tools for adjusting exposure, color, and tone, as well as essential noise reduction features. While these tools are not as extensive or advanced as those found in more professional software, they provide the core adjustments that many photographers need. The software also includes a blemish remover tool, which is useful for quick touch-ups, and a lens correction tool that automatically applies corrections based on the metadata embedded in the image file. These features help improve image quality with minimal effort, making AfterShot Pro 3 a reliable choice for photographers looking to get the job done quickly.
AfterShot Pro 3 also includes a basic layered editing feature, which allows photographers to make more complex adjustments by stacking multiple edits on top of each other. While this feature is not as advanced as those found in more sophisticated programs, it provides enough functionality for photographers who need to make more detailed edits without the need for external software or plugins.
The program’s noise reduction capabilities are particularly noteworthy. AfterShot Pro 3 uses a multi-pass algorithm to reduce noise while preserving image detail. This helps keep the image sharp while minimizing digital artifacts that can occur during noise reduction. The noise reduction tools are effective, especially in lower-light conditions, and are a valuable asset for photographers working in challenging lighting environments.
While AfterShot Pro 3 excels in speed, simplicity, and file management, it does have some limitations compared to more advanced editing software. For example, it lacks some of the finer control options found in software like Lightroom, such as advanced color grading or a robust set of presets. The absence of tethered shooting support and mobile/tablet compatibility may also be a drawback for photographers who require these features for their workflow. Additionally, the software does not support as many file formats as other programs, such as PNG or PSD, which may limit its appeal for some users.
However, for photographers who primarily need basic editing tools, fast processing speeds, and a streamlined interface, AfterShot Pro 3 is an excellent choice. Its low system requirements make it a great option for photographers working on less powerful devices, and its simplicity and speed help photographers complete their work efficiently.
Key Features and Performance of AfterShot Pro 3
Corel AfterShot Pro 3 is a RAW image processing software designed with efficiency and speed in mind. As digital photography grows in complexity, so does the need for powerful yet intuitive editing tools. AfterShot Pro 3 meets this need by offering a minimalist approach that caters to photographers who want to process their images quickly without navigating through a labyrinth of complex menus or an overwhelming array of features. This emphasis on simplicity and usability makes AfterShot Pro 3 an ideal choice for photographers who prioritize quick workflow over advanced, specialized tools. With its lightweight design and optimized system requirements, the software ensures that users can work on their photos without straining their hardware.
One of the most notable advantages of AfterShot Pro 3 is its low system requirements. The software’s streamlined architecture ensures that it runs smoothly even on older computers or devices with limited processing power. Whether you are working on a compact laptop or a less powerful desktop, AfterShot Pro 3 is designed to handle large files and processes efficiently. This makes it particularly appealing for photographers who work on the go, whether they are editing images on a plane, in a café, or in a small studio space. For those with tight computing resources, AfterShot Pro 3 offers a viable alternative to more resource-heavy editing software, such as Adobe Lightroom or Capture One.
The software’s performance is another area where AfterShot Pro 3 shines. While other photo editing programs might lag behind when handling large sets of images, AfterShot Pro 3 is designed to process photos quickly and without significant delays. This speed is a critical feature for professionals, such as photojournalists, event photographers, and wedding photographers, who often need to work under tight deadlines. The ability to process, organize, and make basic adjustments to large volumes of images efficiently makes AfterShot Pro 3 an excellent tool for photographers who shoot in bulk or need to quickly sort through their images before diving into more detailed editing tasks.
In terms of editing capabilities, AfterShot Pro 3 provides essential tools needed to perform quick and effective edits. The software includes basic features such as exposure adjustments, white balance correction, contrast tuning, and color adjustments. These tools are intuitive and accessible, allowing photographers to make necessary edits with minimal effort. Additionally, the blemish removal and noise reduction tools in AfterShot Pro 3 are user-friendly and effective, providing basic corrections to clean up images. These editing features are perfect for photographers who don’t need overly complex tools and are more focused on refining the core aspects of their images.
However, AfterShot Pro 3 does lack some of the advanced editing features that are available in more robust software options like Lightroom or Capture One. For example, the software does not include advanced AI-based editing tools, gradient filters, or detailed control over shadows and highlights. While the program excels in handling basic adjustments, it does not offer the level of control or sophistication required for highly detailed or professional editing tasks. This makes it less appealing to professional photographers who need extensive tonal adjustments, noise reduction at the pixel level, or advanced color grading tools.
Despite these limitations, AfterShot Pro 3 remains an excellent option for photographers who are focused on speed and simplicity. The software does not overwhelm users with unnecessary features, and its clean interface allows users to focus on the task at hand. Whether you are editing a batch of images for an event or quickly touching up a portrait, AfterShot Pro 3 provides the essential editing tools needed to complete these tasks efficiently. For photographers who don’t require the advanced features of other programs, AfterShot Pro 3 offers a streamlined and effective alternative that delivers results without unnecessary complexity.
The Workflow Experience in AfterShot Pro 3
The workflow experience in AfterShot Pro 3 is designed to be as efficient as possible. The software’s simple interface ensures that users can access the tools they need with minimal effort. The layout is intuitive, with all key features placed around the edges of the window, allowing users to focus on their images in the center of the screen. This user-friendly interface is especially beneficial for photographers who are new to photo editing or those who prefer a more straightforward approach to their editing process.
Importing images into AfterShot Pro 3 is quick and easy, with the ability to view and sort images before importing them. This feature is useful when dealing with large batches of images, as it allows photographers to quickly sort through their files and select the best shots before beginning the editing process. The ability to rate and tag images using star ratings, flags, and color codes further enhances the workflow by making it easier to organize and prioritize images. For photographers working with thousands of images, this sorting feature is invaluable, saving time and allowing them to quickly identify the images that need attention.
The program’s file management system is simple yet effective, with a library panel that helps photographers quickly access and organize their images. Whether you are working with a few hundred images or several thousand, AfterShot Pro 3’s organization tools ensure that your photos are easy to find and manage. The software supports metadata editing, allowing users to add keywords and labels to their images, further enhancing the sorting process. Although AfterShot Pro 3 does not offer the advanced tagging or AI-powered sorting tools found in other software, it provides enough functionality to meet the needs of most photographers.
One of the key features of AfterShot Pro 3 is its ability to make batch edits. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who need to apply the same adjustments to a large group of images. Instead of adjusting each image individually, photographers can make changes to one image and then apply those changes to the rest of the photos in the batch. This can save a significant amount of time and ensure consistency across a series of images. For example, if a photographer needs to adjust the white balance or exposure across multiple images, AfterShot Pro 3 allows them to apply these changes to all selected images at once, making the editing process much faster and more efficient.
AfterShot Pro 3 also offers some basic image enhancement tools, such as noise reduction and lens corrections. These features help improve the overall quality of images without the need for external software or plugins. While these tools are not as advanced as those in high-end programs, they do offer useful improvements to image quality with minimal effort. The noise reduction feature is particularly useful for images shot in low-light conditions, helping to reduce grain and improve clarity.
The software’s ability to handle RAW files efficiently is another important aspect of its performance. RAW files contain more data than JPEGs, which allows for greater flexibility when editing, especially when it comes to adjusting exposure and white balance. AfterShot Pro 3 does an excellent job of processing RAW files, offering basic adjustments to make the most of the data in these files. However, as mentioned earlier, the software lacks some of the finer controls available in more advanced editing software, such as advanced tonal adjustments or local editing tools. Still, for photographers who need to process RAW files quickly and efficiently, AfterShot Pro 3 offers a solid and reliable solution.
Key Specifications of AfterShot Pro 3
Corel AfterShot Pro 3 is a versatile yet lightweight photo editing software that is designed to meet the needs of photographers who prioritize simplicity, speed, and efficient image processing. The software runs smoothly on both Windows and macOS platforms, making it an ideal choice for users working across different operating systems. One of its most notable features is its minimal hardware requirements, ensuring that it can function well on older or less powerful computers. This makes AfterShot Pro 3 an excellent option for photographers who don’t have access to high-end devices but still need a reliable editing tool.
The software’s hardware specifications are intentionally modest to cater to a wide range of users. AfterShot Pro 3 operates on Windows 7 or newer and macOS X 10.9 (Mavericks) or later, which means it is compatible with a broad selection of devices, including older machines. With only 2 GB of RAM required for smooth operation, it can function efficiently on devices with minimal memory, further enhancing its appeal for photographers who may be working on laptops or less powerful desktop systems. In terms of disk space, AfterShot Pro 3 demands a modest 400 MB of space for Windows and just 250 MB for macOS. This efficient use of storage space ensures that the software can be easily installed and run without consuming too much of the available storage, leaving room for the user’s photos and other files.
Despite its lightweight design, AfterShot Pro 3 does not compromise on essential functionality. It supports a variety of file formats, including JPEG and TIFF, which are commonly used in photography. Although the program does not support other advanced file formats such as PNG or PSD, the inclusion of the most widely used formats ensures that most photographers will be able to use it without any issues. The software is particularly focused on RAW image processing, which is crucial for photographers who want to retain the highest level of image quality and detail in their photos. AfterShot Pro 3 offers excellent support for RAW files, allowing photographers to make basic edits while preserving the original quality of the image.
In terms of editing features, AfterShot Pro 3 includes basic tools that allow users to make essential adjustments to their images. These include tonal control, color adjustments, and exposure corrections, which are all necessary for any photo editing workflow. The program also offers a blemish remover tool, which is handy for quickly removing imperfections from portraits or other images that require fine-tuning. Additionally, the software provides layered editing, allowing users to apply multiple adjustments to the same image and keep them separate for more flexible editing. While these tools are simple, they are more than adequate for photographers who don’t need advanced features like AI-based editing or layer-based compositing.
AfterShot Pro 3 also includes noise reduction, an important feature for photographers working in low-light conditions or shooting at higher ISOs. The software’s noise reduction tool helps minimize digital noise while maintaining image sharpness and clarity, making it a valuable tool for those working with RAW files. The program also allows for keyword tagging, which can significantly improve workflow efficiency when managing large sets of images. By adding keywords to photos, photographers can easily categorize and search for images, helping to streamline the process of organizing and sorting photos.
However, AfterShot Pro 3 is not without its limitations. It does not offer mobile or tablet support, which may be a disadvantage for photographers who want to edit their images on the go using their mobile devices. Additionally, tethered shooting is not supported, meaning users cannot connect their camera directly to the software for real-time editing during a shoot. These features, which are available in more advanced software options, could have made AfterShot Pro 3 a more robust solution for professional photographers who require these functionalities in their workflow.
Despite these limitations, the software excels in offering the core features needed by photographers who are looking for an easy-to-use, budget-friendly solution for image editing. Its ability to handle RAW image processing, basic tonal adjustments, and organizational features makes it a strong contender in the field of lightweight photo editing tools. AfterShot Pro 3 is particularly useful for photographers who do not need the complex features of more high-end software but still require an efficient tool for editing and organizing their images.
Performance and Workflow Efficiency
One of the standout aspects of AfterShot Pro 3 is its performance and efficiency. The software is designed to work quickly, which is particularly valuable for photographers who have a large number of images to process. The program’s minimalistic approach to design ensures that there are no unnecessary features bogging down performance, allowing users to focus on what matters most: their photos.
When it comes to processing large sets of images, AfterShot Pro 3 handles the task with impressive speed. Photographers can import, organize, and edit their images quickly without having to wait for long processing times. This is particularly beneficial when dealing with high-volume shoots, such as weddings, events, or commercial work. AfterShot Pro 3 allows photographers to quickly sift through their images, apply basic adjustments, and export the final product without getting bogged down in time-consuming processes.
The software also supports batch editing, which is a game-changer for photographers who need to process large sets of images at once. After making adjustments to one image, users can apply those changes to an entire batch of images, saving a significant amount of time and effort. This feature is particularly useful for photographers working with events or product shoots, where multiple images require the same adjustments. The ability to make batch edits and apply settings across multiple photos ensures that photographers can maintain consistency and efficiency without having to edit each image individually.
Moreover, AfterShot Pro 3 allows users to create virtual copies of their images, enabling them to experiment with different edits without altering the original files. This is a helpful feature for photographers who want to try out various adjustments or edits before committing to one final version. The ability to create virtual copies also helps photographers maintain an organized workflow, as it prevents them from cluttering their workspace with multiple copies of the same image.
In terms of file management, AfterShot Pro 3 offers a variety of organizational tools that help photographers keep track of their images. The software allows users to tag their photos with keywords, ratings, and flags, making it easy to sort through and locate specific images. This is especially useful when working with a large number of photos, as it enables photographers to quickly find and access the images they need for further editing or exporting.
While AfterShot Pro 3 excels in speed and efficiency, it does have some limitations compared to more advanced software. For example, the lack of mobile support and tethered shooting may be a dealbreaker for some professional photographers who require these features in their workflow. Additionally, the software lacks some of the more advanced editing tools, such as AI-powered enhancements or advanced color grading options, that are offered by other editing programs.
Despite these limitations, AfterShot Pro 3’s performance and workflow efficiency make it a solid choice for photographers who need a simple, fast, and reliable photo editing tool. Whether you are a hobbyist looking to quickly edit family photos or a professional photographer in need of a budget-friendly solution, AfterShot Pro 3 provides the necessary tools to get the job done. Its combination of basic editing features, RAW processing capabilities, and efficient workflow makes it a valuable asset for photographers who don’t need the advanced features of other software but still want a high-quality editing experience.
Interface and Navigation
AfterShot Pro 3 stands out for its intuitive and simple user interface. The layout is organized, with essential tools placed around the edges of the window. The interface is straightforward, even for those who are new to photo editing, offering an experience that feels familiar to anyone who has used other software.
After importing images, you can view and organize them easily. The Library, File System, and Output panels are conveniently placed on the left-hand side, while adjustment tools are found on the right side. This setup helps you focus on the images without being distracted by complex settings or controls. The central space of the window is dedicated to displaying the images themselves, which is an important feature for those who need to edit large batches of photos quickly and efficiently.
Importing and Organizing Photos
A standout feature of AfterShot Pro 3 is its file management capabilities. The program allows you to organize and sort your images before importing them into the software, a feature many modern programs have adopted for its efficiency. With AfterShot Pro 3, you can rate your images using stars, flags, or color codes, making it easier to sift through large sets of photos. These rating options help you sort and categorize your images efficiently.
The software also offers extensive sorting options, including sorting by file name, date, rating, f-stop, or white balance. This level of detail in sorting can help photographers streamline their workflow, especially when dealing with large batches of photos. However, one notable downside is that AfterShot Pro 3 lacks the "smart" features found in newer software. It doesn't have AI-powered sorting tools or automatic keyword tagging, which could have made the process even more efficient.
Editing and RAW Processing
AfterShot Pro 3 performs adequately when it comes to RAW image processing, providing standard adjustments such as exposure, contrast, white balance, and more. However, it lacks some advanced features, such as dedicated shadow recovery and advanced tonal control. These shortcomings make detailed editing a bit more challenging compared to more powerful tools like Lightroom.
While the program does offer a Tone Curve tool for fine-tuning exposure and tones, it is not as intuitive or flexible as similar tools found in other software. Moreover, RAW processing in AfterShot Pro 3 tends to produce flatter images with a green cast, which might not appeal to users seeking more vibrant and immediate results.
For photographers who require fine control over tonal adjustments and color grading, the lack of more advanced tools could be a significant limitation. However, if you are comfortable with basic adjustments and prefer simplicity, AfterShot Pro 3’s RAW processing should be sufficient for everyday tasks.
Basic Editing Tools and Manual Control
AfterShot Pro 3 includes a set of basic editing tools that allow users to adjust exposure, color, and other image properties. While these tools are functional, they are not as sophisticated as those found in other software. The sliders for adjustments are easily accessible and can be fine-tuned, but there is no dedicated shadow adjustment tool, which is a significant drawback for photographers who work with high-contrast images.
The limited Exposure Compensation range (plus or minus three stops) may also restrict some users, especially those working in challenging lighting conditions. While the software’s basic editing tools can get the job done for casual edits, professionals looking for more precise control over tonal adjustments and color may find AfterShot Pro 3 lacking.
Photo Manipulation and Healing Tools
AfterShot Pro 3 includes a Heal/Clone tool, which is useful for basic spot removal. However, it’s not as intuitive or efficient as the similar tools found in other programs. After applying the Heal/Clone tool, you have to manually adjust the size and position of the area, which can slow down your workflow. Additionally, the tool is limited to spot corrections, making it difficult to remove larger objects from images.
For photographers who frequently perform object removal, the lack of a more advanced brush tool is a disadvantage. While the Heal/Clone tool gives users some flexibility, it feels outdated compared to more modern software options.
Advanced Editing Features
AfterShot Pro 3 includes some advanced features, such as noise reduction and highlight recovery, but they don’t match the capabilities of more modern software. The noise reduction tool works reasonably well but isn’t as effective as the AI-powered denoising tools found in other programs. If you frequently shoot in low-light conditions, you may find the noise reduction in AfterShot Pro 3 lacking.
On the other hand, the highlight recovery feature performs well, especially for overexposed areas like skies. AfterShot Pro 3 is able to recover more detail in these areas compared to some competitors. For photographers who work with challenging lighting, this feature can be particularly valuable.
Exporting and Sharing
The export interface in AfterShot Pro 3 is simple yet efficient. It allows you to resize, sharpen, and adjust metadata before exporting, and it supports exporting in JPEG and TIFF formats. However, the software does not support additional file formats like PNG or PSD, which may limit its versatility for certain workflows.
The ability to apply watermarks during the export process is a useful feature, but it would be even better if more file formats were supported. The simplicity of the export process is ideal for photographers who need quick exports without unnecessary complexity.
Conclusion: Is Corel AfterShot Pro 3 Still Relevant?
Corel AfterShot Pro 3 offers a straightforward, lightweight solution for photographers who need fast editing and simple file management. Its simplicity, speed, and file management features make it ideal for those who need to quickly process large sets of images, such as photojournalists, event photographers, or anyone on the go. However, its lack of advanced editing tools, particularly for tonal adjustments and color grading, makes it less appealing for photographers who require more control over their images.
While AfterShot Pro 3 offers good performance and usability, it falls short in several key areas compared to more modern photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Luminar Neo. For photographers who need a more comprehensive toolset, AfterShot Pro 3 may not be the best choice. However, for those on a budget or in need of a lightweight solution, it remains a viable option for basic editing and fast workflow.
Overall, AfterShot Pro 3 is still a viable option for photographers who want a simple, budget-friendly solution for editing and organizing photos, especially if you don’t require advanced features. For more complex editing needs, however, you may want to explore other, more feature-rich software options.
