VSCO Doubles Down on AI, Launches ‘AI Labs’ for Pro Photographers
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VSCO is significantly expanding its image editing capabilities with the introduction of “AI Labs,” a new suite of artificial intelligence-powered tools designed to streamline workflows and enhance creative control for photographers. The update, available now on the VSCO Studio app for iOS, also brings support for high-resolution RAW files, non-destructive edits, and advanced content-aware region detection.
The move underscores a growing trend within the photo editing space, as companies like Google and Apple increasingly integrate AI into their offerings. VSCO’s approach, however, appears specifically tailored to the needs of professional photographers, according to a company release.
AI-Powered Object Removal and Beyond
At the heart of AI Labs is an object removal tool that allows users to seamlessly eliminate unwanted elements from images. Users can utilize Brush, tap, or Lasso select tools to highlight objects, which VSCO’s AI then replaces with a background blend. The company claims its “intelligent area detection” technology ensures a natural-looking result, preserving both resolution and color accuracy.
Unlike some existing AI removal tools prone to creating noticeable artifacts, VSCO asserts its implementation is more precise and detail-oriented. “We see how much AI is impacting photography, and are focused on bringing AI tools to our community that are designed specifically to support photographers in achieving creative excellence while respecting the art of their photography,” stated Eric Wittman, VSCO’s CEO.
VSCO is also preparing to launch another AI-powered feature called Upscale, which promises to increase image resolution and sharpen details without compromising the original composition.
Powering the Future with FLUX.1 Kontext
The AI Labs features are powered by Black Forest Labs’ FLUX.1 Kontext model, a sophisticated AI engine designed for image understanding and manipulation. This collaboration highlights VSCO’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance its platform.
Pricing and Availability
Access to AI Labs is exclusive to VSCO’s Pro tier, which is priced at $12.99 per month or $60 annually. Notably, VSCO is not imposing any limitations on the number of times users can utilize the AI Labs features. This unrestricted access could prove particularly appealing to professional photographers who rely heavily on editing tools.
Expanding the VSCO Ecosystem
This latest update is part of a broader strategy by VSCO to bolster its toolset and compete more effectively with established editing platforms. In May, the company launched an AI-powered whiteboard for collaborative project work. Last year saw the introduction of a marketplace connecting photographers with clients, and earlier this year, VSCO launched Workspace to simplify booking and scheduling.
These additions demonstrate VSCO’s ambition to become a comprehensive platform for photographers, extending beyond simple image editing to encompass the entire creative workflow.
