Lensa
Link:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.lensa.app&hl=en&gl=US
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lensa-photo-touch-up-blur/id1436732536
Name: Lensa
Category: Photography
Company: Prisma Labs, Inc.
Number of installations: 10M+
Reviews: 39M+
Score: 4.5
Description:
Most known for the Prisma app that helps transform everyday scenes into fantastic works of art, the folks over at Prisma Labs had turned their attention to a somewhat controversial aspect of modern mobile photography and image processing – the art of the selfie.
It is undeniable that many users today spend a lot of time taking selfies or are having portraits done by their friends or loved ones. And once the image has been taken, comes the usual vetting process that can be arduous, depending on the individual.
What Lensa does, unlike most other photographic apps we have reviewed for this website, is that it expertly focuses on image manipulation concerning the user’s face and general appearance. Employing AI-powered technology, the application is able to analyze the various aspects of an image and focus on the individual in the frame.
Upon starting up the application you’re greeted with a number of introductory screens, the first of which describes the intent of the app. You’re given a little overview of the available features and are immediately offered the chance to sign up for a paid subscription.
After you’ve gone through the introductory process, you’re then given a simple layout that invites you to import the photo(s) you wish you make changes to.
As you can see from the screenshot above, those intending on using the app without paying for a subscription are only given 3 free edits daily, and once you’ve used up that privilege, you’ll just have to wait it out, as the app simply won’t allow you to upload more.
When you’ve selected the image you wish you process, you’re given the following parameters to tweak:
- Face
- Background
- Adjust
- Effects
- Filters
- Borders
Most obvious is the great big Magic Correction button that is prominently located just below the image. By clicking on the button you’re given an automated correction of all the different parameters available, however, be prepared for some results that are a little surprising and unpredictable.
From our experience, that button is best left alone, as you’re given so much control over other individual parameters, fine-tuning your results is best done this way.
While each of the individual settings has its own set of adjustable parameters, the area that has by far the most possible adjustments is to be found under the Face section. We were a little staggered by the available options:
- Face retouch
- Neck retouch
- Eye bags
- Eyelashes
- Eye contrast
- Teeth whitening
- Eyebrows
- Brighter lips
- Cheekbones
- Lens correction
- Bigger eyes
- Smaller nose
- Smaller cheeks
- Plump lips
- Vibrance
- Shadows
- Highlights
- Hair color
The overwhelming number of adjustments, helped by the AI algorithm that isolates your face/body from the rest of the image reveals what is seen by some as negatively promoting the body positive movement. To that end, it seems that the folks at Prisma have jumped on the bandwagon wholeheartedly and embraced the artificial and enhanced aspects of achieving today’s beauty standards and ideals.
While this issue is worth highlighting, it is undeniable that what is on offer is a powerful and effective tool with which users can beautify their appearance. However, if you happen to be a habitual selfie taker, you’re going to have to seriously consider which images you’re willing to edit, as three photos a day really isn’t going to pass muster with your average Instagram user.
And the developers know this too, as their in-built advertising is one of the most assertive we’ve seen, constantly reminding the user that more is available once you’ve parted with your money. With Xmas just around the corner (at the time of writing), Lensa is currently offering some enticing discounts for users, with a staggering 88% off its usual pricing structure. Considering that a yearly subscription is over £30.00, if you’re in the business of taking selfies and portrait shots, this might be the perfect time to get on board.
WE LIKE:
- AI-powered algorithms
- The simplicity of intent
WE DISLIKE:
- Only getting three free edits daily
- Aggressive in-app advertising