Secret Weapons has released EbSynth V2, the next major version of their video stylization and retouching tool. The software, originally known for propagating painted or edited keyframes across entire shots, now comes with a redesigned workflow aimed at production use.

New in V2

The update introduces a real-time preview, allowing results to be checked instantly. A timeline interface makes navigation through footage more direct, while layer support and brush tools enable retouching inside the application. Artists no longer need to prepare all masks and edits externally before running synthesis — the process has become far more interactive.

Under the Hood

EbSynth still relies on example-based texture synthesis, not pretrained AI models. This means detail and motion fidelity are preserved without “hallucinations.” Keyframe edits remain the foundation: whatever is painted or altered in a keyframe is transferred to the surrounding sequence, guided by optical flow and patch mapping.

Applications

V2 is designed for offline desktop workflows, supporting GPU acceleration on Nvidia, AMD, and Apple Silicon. This makes it suitable for stylization, digital makeup, cleanup, or color retouching in VFX and postproduction environments that demand privacy and control.

Comparison with Early Versions

When Digital Production reported on EbSynth in early 2024, the tool was still marked by a spartan UI, limited to functions like “Open, Save, Export” and batch-based processing. Iteration was slow, and feedback on synthesis errors often came too late. Problematic areas included motion blur, occlusion, and reflections — all of which required external correction.

With V2, the core algorithm remains unchanged, but the workflow has been upgraded: timeline, layers, preview, and brushes make it easier to spot issues early and correct them in-app. The challenges of difficult material persist, but users now spend less time fighting the interface and more time shaping results.

EbSynth – a tool for animations from videos by style transfer of reference images

The post EbSynth V2: Real-Time Preview, Timeline & Layers first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.

After seven years in the development barrel, GIMP 3.0 has finally rolled out, introducing a range of features aimed at streamlining image editing workflows. The open-source editor now includes non-destructive editing for frequently used filters—allowing changes at any time without compromising the original image data. These filters come with real-time, on-canvas previews, giving users immediate feedback without constantly toggling through dialog boxes or menus.

The file format support has been broadened: PSD export now offers better compatibility, potentially smoothing collaboration with Adobe Photoshop users. There’s also support for BC7 DDS files, useful for artists dealing with texture-heavy workflows, particularly in real-time graphics or game development.

GIMP’s paint tools have also learned new tricks, automatically expanding layers as needed during the creative process—no more mid-brush interruptions for layer resizing. For those managing complex projects, layer multi-selection is now a thing: multiple items can be moved or transformed at once, cutting down on repetitive micro-management.

Text lovers will note enhancements in the text editing department: outlines, shadows, and bevels can now be applied directly to text, while retaining the ability to adjust font and styling on the fly. Also improved is the color management, positioning GIMP 3.0 closer to workflows that demand precision in color grading and finishing.

The user interface has undergone a significant overhaul with the transition to GTK3, resulting in better UI scaling on HiDPI screens and improved support for tablet input. This update also introduces a CSS-based theme system, encouraging users to create custom themes more easily. Additionally, GIMP 3.0 now runs natively on Wayland, offering more flexibility in various operating environments.

For a comprehensive overview of GIMP 3.0’s new features and to download the latest version, visit the official GIMP website. As always, a reminder: just because it’s shiny and new doesn’t mean it’s ready for your next client deadline—test thoroughly before committing it to production.

More on the release and its impact on post-production workflows? We’ve covered that over on Digital Production—including thoughts on whether GIMP 3.0 has aged like wine… or vinegar.

The post GIMP 3.0: Free Image Editor Gets Non-Destructive—and a Bit Fancy first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.