PhotoBox vs. LightLoupe. What's the deal?

LightLoupe was previously known as PhotoBox. It's the same product, but we had to rename it (starting with version 1.2) due to trademark issues.

PhotoBox 1.0.1 is not compatible with iOS 4.2

PhotoBox 1.0.1 is not compatible with iOS 4.2.

Specifically, there are the following problems:

• Nikon RAW files will only show up as a 160 x 120 preview image
• Large files, for example from Canon cameras, will cause LightLoupe 1.0.1 to crash

At least PhotoBox version 1.1. is necessary on iOS 4.x. Please update to the latest version, now named LightLoupe. LightLoupe 1.x is a free update for PhotoBox customers.

LightLoupe is not compatible with iPad OS 3.x

LightLoupe needs new APIs from iOS 4 to access full resolution photos and more. Therefor it is impossible to make LightLoupe compatible with iOS 3.x. Please update to the latest version of iOS 4. This is a free update via Apple iTunes.

What photo resolution do I get in LightLoupe?

On iOS 4.2 or later you can see the full resolution of your photos inside LightLoupe.

Why can't I import photos directly from the camera into LightLoupe?

Currently the only available way to import photos from a camera or memory card is the iPad Camera Connection Kit by Apple. This kit only works with the photos app on iPad. In case Apple will allow direct access in a future version of the iPad operating system we will surely consider adding it to LightLoupe.

Why are there no image editing options?

LightLoupe is a tool meant to judge the quality of your photos while you are on the go and have no access to a Mac/PC. As for editing on iPad there are a number of great apps already available. In addition we believe that photographers want to work with the full-size (RAW) photos they took, not scaled down JPG versions. Accessing the RAW file is not (yet) possible on iOS.

What ranges are the clipping overlays showing?

Photos on iPad have an 8 bit color range, independently from what your RAW files may use. By default LightLoupe is showing pixels with lightness values 0-5 as blue (underexposed) and values 250-255 as red (overexposed). You may adjust that range in the settings panel (accessible via the gear icon in the toolbar).

What kinds of RAW formats does LightLoupe support?

LightLoupe works with technologies provided by iOS to load and display photos. All formats supported by iPad are supported in LightLoupe. Unfortunately there's no comprehensive list of available formats, but we have found that most common cameras formats work.

Here's a list of formats we have found to NOT work with iOS/LightLoupe on iOS 4.3.1. Future versions of iOS may provide more formats:

• Leica M8 DNG: Files imported from Leica M8 cameras (and probably also other models) only show up as 320x240 pixel images.

How can I present photos on a TV set?

In order to present photos from LightLoupe on a TV set you need an adaptor cable to connect your iPad to the TV set. AirPlay, a fairly new technology by Apple for transferring video and images wirelessly, is currently not available for third party apps.

You need one of the following Apple accessories in addition to an extension cable to connect your TV to iPad:

• Apple Digital AV Adapter: This adaptor features an HDMI output and delivers up to Full HD (1080p) output on iPad 2. See the Apple store for more information.
• Apple VGA Adapter: Get a VGA connector for your iPad and output up to Full HD (1080p) on iPad 2. Check it out at the Apple Store.

How do I use a projector with LightLoupe?

The process is exactly the same as for a TV set. Please consult the entry above.

How do I setup presentation on an external screen?

Just connect your external screen via one of the compatible adaptors and make sure the screen is turned on. As soon as you connect the VGA or Digital AV adaptor, LightLoupe will recognize the screen and give you a choice of available resolutions for display.

Is there a way to quickly see pixel by pixel of my photo?

While you are in "View" mode (looking at one photo) you can double tap and hold your finger down to zoom into 100% magnification. Hold the finger down and swipe across the screen to navigate through your photo. (See also the separate entry regarding photo resolution in LightLoupe)

Can I see the three channel histogram in seperate diagrams?

Yes, there are two ways to get a combined histogram. 1) When holding iPad in landscape orientation pinch with two fingers somewhere in the histogram area. The three color channels will move on top of each other. Zoom using two fingers to expand them into separate histograms again. 2) When turning iPad into portrait orientation the three color channels will always be combined.