Google Nik Collection is Now Free

Nik Software has been a leader in digital imaging plug-ins and tools for quite some time now.  Established in 1995 and based in San Diego, 2012 was a pivotal year for the software company.  In September of that year they were bought out by the mighty, giant, Google.

HDR Efex Pro Screenshot (Source: The HDR Image)

Within their lineup they have:

• Analog Efex Pro – Get the look and feel of classic cameras, films, and lenses
• Color Efex Pro – A comprehensive set of filters for color correction, retouching, and creative effects
• Dfine – Noise reduction tool
• HDR Efex Pro – HDR photography tools
• Sharpener Pro – Bring out hidden details consistently with the professional’s choice for image sharpening
• Silver Efex Pro – Create black & white photography with darkroom-inspired precision
• Viveza – Selectively adjust the color and tonality of your images without complicated masks or selections

At one point they were all being sold individually or in bundles (originally $500 for the whole collection).  When Google bought them out in 2012 they reduced the price to $150.  The great thing is, as of March 24th, 2016 Google Nik Collection is now FREE to download and use.

There’s no doubt Google has a strategic long-term plan for these tools; integration into other Google apps, putting them into your phone, etc.  Whatever it may be, photography enthusiasts are rejoicing.

Here is an official statement from Google:

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 6th, 2016 at 1:46 pm. It is filed under Round Pixel News and tagged with Editing, Google, industry news, Nik, photographer, photography. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.