CyberLink PhotoDirector 365 review

PhotoDirector 365 reviewed: reliable, cost-effective image-editing software that complements a creative workflow

Photodirector 365 review
(Image: © CyberLink)

Our Verdict

PhotoDirector 365 feels like good image-editing software let down by a few issues. That said, the software is reasonably priced, starts and runs fast and works reliably – great if you’re a creative designer and need some quick edits without breaking the bank.

For

  • Powerful AI features
  • Easy animation effects
  • Inexpensive subscription cost

Against

  • Poor smart features
  • Complex effects fall flat

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In this PhotoDirector 365 review, we'll see just how much PhotoDirector has grown up over the years. The latest iteration is packed with useful editing tools, including new artificial intelligence (AI) tools, features and plug-ins. With lots of high-level editing features such as levels and colour adjustments, it serves well as standard image editing software, but it also has some tricks up its sleeve. New, powerful filters known as Guided tools now offer many more creative effects, such as automatic body shaping, skin and face tools, as well as lighting and animation effects. 

As a subscription service, PhotoDirector 365 is pretty cheap compared to other subscription models, starting at just £2.92 per month – substantially less than Adobe’s offering for Photoshop and Lightroom, which starts at £9.98 per month. So if you’re a creative who wants powerful image editing but you don't need the Adobe workflow or perhaps find yourself on a budget, PhotoDirector 365 might be the right choice for you. Alternatively, CyberLink offers a one-time purchase option called PhotoDirector 13 Ultra, which is similar to PhotoDirector 365 but doesn’t include access to the royalty-free stock library from Shutterstock.

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The Verdict
8

out of 10

Cyberlink PhotoDirector

PhotoDirector 365 feels like good image-editing software let down by a few issues. That said, the software is reasonably priced, starts and runs fast and works reliably – great if you’re a creative designer and need some quick edits without breaking the bank.

Jason Parnell-Brookes
Managing editor, ecommerce, Space and Live Science

 Jase Parnell-Brookes is the Managing Editor for e-commerce for Space and Live Science. Previously the Channel Editor for Cameras and Skywatching at Space, Jase has been an editor and contributing expert across a wide range of publications since 2010. Based in the UK, they are also an award-winning photographer and educator winning the Gold Prize award in the Nikon Photo Contest 2018/19 and named Digital Photographer of the Year in 2014.

After completing their Masters degree in 2011 and qualifying as a teacher in 2012, Jase has spent the last two decades studying and working in photography and publishing in multiple areas, and specialises in low light optics and camera systems.