How to Use Luminar Flex Without Luminar 3 Catalog: A Comprehensive Guide

When Skylum launched Luminar 3, many photographers were excited about the prospect of a powerful Lightroom alternative. However, as time went on, it became clear that the digital asset manager (DAM) had several missing features and performance issues, leaving many users frustrated. In fact, when I conducted a poll in my Learn Skylum's Luminar & Aurora HDR Facebook Group just last month, only a small percentage of participants were happy with Luminar 3.

In this article, we'll explore an alternative way to use Luminar's filters and tools without the DAM limitations of Luminar 3. Meet Luminar Flex, a free update released by Skylum that brings the power of Luminar 3's editing capabilities to your photos, minus the catalog features.

What is Luminar Flex?

-----------------

Luminar Flex is essentially Luminar 3 without the DAM. It's a plugin that runs inside Photoshop and offers all the great photo editing filters and tools from Luminar 3, minus the catalog features that have been a source of disappointment for many users.

Why Choose Luminar Flex Over Luminar 3?

-----------------------------------

If you're not happy with the performance issues or missing features in Luminar 3's DAM, but still want to use Luminar's filters and tools, then Luminar Flex might be the perfect solution for you. By running as a plugin inside Photoshop, you can enjoy the benefits of Luminar's editing capabilities without the limitations of the DAM.

What's New in Luminar Flex v1.1?

--------------------------

Skylum has recently released a free update to Luminar Flex, bringing it to version 1.1. With this update, users can now experience even more powerful editing capabilities and improved performance.

How to Use Luminar Flex

-------------------

Using Luminar Flex is relatively straightforward. Here's a step-by-step guide:

### Step 1: Install Luminar Flex

Download the free update to Luminar Flex from Skylum's website and install it on your computer.

### Step 2: Launch Photoshop

Open Photoshop on your computer and create a new document or open an existing one.

### Step 3: Access Luminar Flex

Click on 'Filters' in the top menu bar, then select 'Luminar Flex' to access the plugin.

### Step 4: Choose Your Filter

Select from a range of filters and tools available in Luminar Flex, such as filters for landscape, portrait, street, and more.

### Step 5: Edit Your Photos

Use the filters and tools to enhance your photos, just like you would with Luminar 3.

-------

Luminar Flex is an excellent alternative to Luminar 3's DAM limitations. With its powerful editing capabilities and improved performance, it's a great way to enjoy the benefits of Luminar without the frustration of a subpar catalog system. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, Luminar Flex is definitely worth checking out.

Download Luminar Flex today and start enjoying the best of both worlds – powerful editing capabilities and seamless integration with Photoshop!

Download luminar 2018