S3Corp. Tech Blog

Photo editing has become a key part of self-expression in today’s digital age. Filters have evolved far beyond simple adjustments to brightness and contrast. The latest trend in this field allows users to transform their photos into artworks inspired by famous painting styles. This is possible through tools powered by the DeepStyle neural painting algorithm. These tools have made it simple for anyone to reimagine their photos as artistic creations. Here are five free apps to try, whether you’re on Android, iOS, or using the web.

Prisma (Android, iOS): The Standard for Artistic Filters

Prisma is one of the most popular apps in this category. It simplifies the process of applying art-inspired filters to your photos while delivering impressive results. Its user-friendly interface has made it a favorite on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. Prisma works by letting you select a photo and apply one of its many filters. The app generates a preview within 10 to 20 seconds, showing how the filter transforms your image.

A unique feature of Prisma is the ability to control the filter’s intensity. By sliding your finger across the image, you can adjust how much the chosen style influences the photo, ranging from 0% to 100%. This feature offers greater creative control compared to similar apps.

Prisma stands out because of its instant preview and intensity adjustment, setting a high standard in this niche. While it’s free to download on Android and iPhone, an iPad version is available for $2.99. This combination of ease of use and versatility has positioned Prisma as a leader in the art filter segment.

Pikazo (Android, iOS): Create Custom Artistic Styles

Pikazo predates Prisma and has its own strengths, particularly for users who want to create custom filters. This app allows you to choose any painting or image as a style reference, making it highly customizable.

To get started, users upload an image from their gallery or take a new photo. Pikazo provides a selection of preloaded painting styles to choose from, or you can upload a custom painting or artwork to create a unique filter. For instance, if you admire Van Gogh’s brushstrokes or Mondrian’s geometric compositions, you can use similar images to inspire your own filter.

The app processes images on its servers, and while this takes 5 to 10 minutes, the wait is worthwhile for the level of customization Pikazo offers. Finished creations can be downloaded or shared directly to social media platforms. For those who value personalization and artistic freedom, Pikazo is a standout option.

DreamScope (Web): High-Resolution Images Without Compression

DreamScope is a web-based tool that brings photo transformation capabilities to your desktop or laptop. It utilizes the same DeepStyle algorithm as many mobile apps, offering a wide variety of art-inspired filters. Unlike mobile apps that often compress your images, DreamScope retains the original resolution, making it ideal for creating high-quality prints.

With DreamScope, users can explore how their photos would look when interpreted by various iconic art styles. The app supports high-resolution uploads, which is a key advantage for those seeking to print and frame their creations. This is a significant edge over mobile apps that often reduce image sizes for quicker processing.

For anyone curious about how a master like Picasso or Monet might have painted their portrait, DreamScope provides an accessible way to experiment with these artistic styles. Its focus on maintaining image quality makes it a strong choice for those serious about turning their photos into art.

DeepArt (Web): Transform Any Image into a Custom Filter

DeepArt is another web app that emphasizes customization, similar to Pikazo. However, DeepArt operates entirely online, making it accessible without the need for a smartphone. This platform allows users to convert any image into a filter style, which can then be applied to their photos.

To use DeepArt, users start by uploading their chosen photo and a reference image for the filter. The app combines these inputs to produce a unique result that blends the style of the reference with the content of the photo. This makes DeepArt especially versatile, as users can experiment with styles beyond famous paintings, such as photographs, abstract patterns, or illustrations.

DeepArt also includes a “Latest Images” section, showcasing creations by other users. Browsing these examples can spark inspiration and guide users in choosing reference styles for their own projects. For anyone seeking to experiment with artistic possibilities, DeepArt is an excellent tool.

r/deepstyle (Web): A Community Hub for Art Filter Enthusiasts

Reddit’s r/deepstyle forum serves as a gathering place for those interested in art filters. This online community provides resources, discussions, and inspiration for users at all levels. Whether you want to explore new apps, get feedback on your creations, or learn how to develop your own art-filtering software, r/deepstyle is an invaluable resource.

The forum includes posts about the latest developments in neural painting algorithms, tutorials for creating filters, and galleries showcasing user creations. Members of the community often provide critiques and suggestions to help others improve their work. For anyone passionate about exploring this technology further, r/deepstyle offers support and insights that go beyond what individual apps provide.

Choosing the Right App for You

Each of these apps has unique features, catering to different needs and preferences. Prisma is perfect for quick, visually stunning results, while Pikazo and DeepArt are great for those who want creative control. DreamScope appeals to users looking for high-resolution images, and r/deepstyle connects enthusiasts with a supportive community.

By exploring these tools, you can turn ordinary photos into eye-catching artworks that capture attention online or in print. Experiment with the styles and features of each app to find the one that aligns with your artistic vision.