ON1 Photo RAW has come a long way, and its AI-powered features are a big part of why photographers are switching from traditional workflows. From subject masking to noise reduction and sky replacement, ON1’s AI suite is designed to speed up editing while keeping the final image professional and polished.

But here’s the truth: like any tool, AI is only as effective as the hands using it.

In this post, we’ll explore how to get consistently great results with ON1’s AI features, common pitfalls to avoid, and tips for when to trust automation—and when to take the wheel.

The Power of ON1’s AI Tools: A Quick Overview

ON1 Photo RAW includes several standout AI tools, including:

  • Super Select AI – Click and adjust specific areas of your photo without brushing or masking manually.
  • NoNoise AI – Clean up high-ISO images while retaining detail.
  • Sky Swap AI – Replace dull skies with dramatic ones in just a few clicks.
  • Resize AI – Upscale images with stunning sharpness and clarity.
  • Portrait AI – Automatically smooth skin, enhance eyes, and retouch portraits.

These tools can save hours—but only if used intentionally.

Common Pitfalls (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Trusting the Default Settings Too Much

AI tools often apply strong adjustments by default. For example, NoNoise AI might smooth out an image but leave it looking plasticky.

Tip: Always review the result at 100% zoom and manually tweak sliders to balance noise reduction with detail retention.

2. Overdoing Sky Swaps

Sky replacement is fun—but overused or mismatched skies can quickly make a photo look fake.

Tip: Match sky lighting and color temperature to the original scene. Use the “Relight” and “Mask Refinement” sliders to blend edges naturally.

3. Losing Creative Control

Some users rely too heavily on AI, leading to a uniform, generic look across their portfolio.

Tip: Use AI as a starting point, not the final step. Combine AI results with your own creative adjustments using Local Adjustments, Layers, and Effects.

4. AI Masking Isn’t Always Perfect

Even Super Select AI or Sky AI can miss fine edges—especially with hair, tree branches, or complex subjects.

Tip: Zoom in and use the Refine Mask tool to correct edges. Don’t be afraid to touch up with a manual brush for precise results.

Real-World Example: Supercharging a Landscape Edit

Let’s say you’ve shot a sunset landscape, but the sky is washed out and the foreground lacks contrast. Here’s how you can enhance it using AI tools without over-editing:

  1. Sky Swap AI: Choose a matching sunset sky and use the “Relight” option to blend lighting with the foreground.
  2. Super Select AI: Target the foreground and bump up contrast, warmth, and clarity.
  3. NoNoise AI: Apply noise reduction to the shadow areas only (using a mask) to keep detail in sunlit parts.

With three tools and five minutes, your image is transformed—naturally.

When NOT to Use AI

While ON1’s AI tools are powerful, sometimes a manual approach still wins:

  • Fine Art Photography – When subtle tonal control matters more than speed.
  • Composites/Graphics Work – Where pixel-level precision is key.
  • Product Photography – Where color fidelity and realism are non-negotiable.

Pro Tip: Combine AI for global changes, and use manual tools for finishing touches.

Final Thoughts

ON1’s AI features are more than shortcuts—they’re creative accelerators. But to get the best results, treat AI as a collaborator, not a crutch.

Refine your edits, learn the tools, and keep your personal style front and center.

Have a favorite AI tip or a photo transformed by ON1’s tools? Tag us on social media or submit your edit for a chance to be featured in an upcoming post!

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