Free Professional Print & Layout software translates DPRAW data into superior prints

"Because the software uses the depth map of the DPRAW file intelligently, and applies sharpening accordingly, it really makes the image stand out. If you're delivering a print to a gallery or an exhibition competition, you'll want to use this feature," says Suhaib Hussain, a senior product marketing specialist at Canon.

"Now, there's even more reason to shoot in DPRAW, whether you're shooting wildlife, portraits or weddings where you've got blurred background and want the subject to really 'pop'. If you're printing, this is the way you should be doing it."

Visitors to the Canon stand at photokina 2018, in Germany, were able to see the difference the software makes at Canon's Print Gallery. There, prints with and without the DPRAW Print function were displayed side by side, including work by Canon Ambassadors David Noton, Brent Stirton and Katya Mukhina.

The Professional Print & Layout software plugs into Canon's photo editing software Digital Photo Professional, and the DPRAW Print function is activated with a single click.

As well as the DPRAW Print function, Professional Print & Layout software will make it easier and faster to print HDR images. With one click, the software can bring out detail in highlight areas to achieve a wider dynamic range. Thanks to the Exhibition Lighting Optimisation function, this expanded dynamic range is evident in prints viewed under the varied lighting conditions used for galleries and exhibitions. The two functions can be used together, revealing greater information in the highlights while making in-focus areas stand out.

"For HDR Prints, the software works directly with the RAW file that comes out of the EOS R or the EOS 5D Mark IV," says Suhaib. "You don't need multiple shots. You can use one shot, and the software can bring back up to two stops of dynamic range in the highlight areas. If the EOS R is the future of capture, this is the future of printing. No other manufacturer is doing HDR printing in this way."