HomeNavigation arrowBlogNavigation arrow
Current page
Feature Updates

Weekly Recap: Faster Background Removal, Smarter Digital Downloads & New AI Editing Tools 📸✨

Weekly Recap: Faster Background Removal, Smarter Digital Downloads & New AI Editing Tools 📸✨
Hey photo friends! 👋

Last week, we were busy hosting our annual Summer Seminar in Denver, Colorado—and we had a great time with everyone who joined us!

That means this week’s recap includes two weeks of updates. Nothing too wild, but plenty of useful improvements across Retail, the Dashboard, Auto Editor, Capture App, and more while we continue working on some bigger changes behind the scenes.

Let’s catch up!

⚡ Faster Background Removal

✂️ Background Removal processing is faster

  • We made multiple speed improvements over the past two weeks to help cutouts finish sooner, especially during higher-volume periods.

📥 Smarter Digital Download Delivery

Digital Downloads can now skip unnecessary processing in more situations.

Some downloads are now available immediately

  • If a customer selects No Overlay, the Event has no artwork, and/the image is not a BGR image, the customer will skip the cropping step on the retail site and receive the full-resolution image without waiting for an 8×12 rendered version.

🖼️ Full aspect ratio is preserved

  • These downloads bypass the cropping step and work more like Personal Gallery Download products.

🆓 Also applies to Medium Res and Free Downloads

  • This includes cases where those downloads are automatically upgraded to full resolution.

📧 Clearer receipt messaging for custom renders

🧾 Order Details now identifies each download type

  • Digital Downloads can now show a Rendered Download or a Full Aspect Ratio Download badge, making it clearer which version was delivered to your customers.

🎨 Auto Editor & Candy Image Studio Updates

🧩 Auto Editor now supports image-input nodes

  • You can now use nodes such as:
    • Custom Image
    • Copy Style
    • Diploma Fix

🙈 Auto Edit originals won’t be texted too early

  • QuicPics and QuicPortraits will no longer send the original image by MMS when it belongs to an active Auto Edit with Hide Originals enabled. The system will wait for the edited version instead.

🕺 New Retro Pop node

  • Give images a colorful, retro-inspired treatment.

🂡 New Ace Card node

  • Turn subjects into a bold playing-card-style design.

💬 QuicPics & Marketing Improvements

👥 QuicPics can now send to multiple contacts on merged participants

  • If merged participant records contain different phone numbers or email addresses, regular QuicPics can now send to each unique contact.

✉️ Marketing startup fix for BGR cutouts

  • Fixed an edge case where marketing would not begin if the only visible images were cutouts from the newer Background Removal system.

🔗 Hot Links now better respect Hide Originals

  • Fixed an issue where the preview could temporarily show the original image before an Auto Edit finished generating.

📱 Capture App Updates

Capture App 5.8.1

iOS and Android OTA updates

🎨 Updated Event artwork is refreshed at login

  • If artwork changed, the latest file is pulled when logging into the Event normally.

🛠️ Small follow-up fix

  • An additional 5.8.1 update was released to address a minor issue.

Capture App 5.9

iOS and Android App Store update

📲 iOS OTA updates are easier to install

  • You no longer need to completely restart the app or return to the Home Screen to install an available Over-the-Air update.

🤖 Android compatibility updates

  • Required updates were made to stay current with new Google Play requirements.

🛍️ Retail Download Fixes

📱 Safari share sheet reliability improved

  • Press-and-hold downloads should now open the native share sheet more consistently on Safari.

🖼️ Virtual Group download cleanup

  • Virtual Groups in QuicPics no longer offer a Download with Art option.

🎨 Background selection fixes

  • Fixed cases where:
    • A PNG could be downloaded without selecting a background and receive an incorrect blue background
    • Faux renders showed no selected background in the download popup

🔐 Facebook login works again

🖥️ Dashboard Improvements

📊 Image Timeline cleanup

  • Fixed chart display issues, removed folders that were not useful in the timeline, and prevented multiple summaries from appearing when switching folders quickly.

🌾 Candy Culler controls are clearer

  • Filter visibility and report controls now use more descriptive buttons, similar to Manage Images.

📈 BGR Folder Stats fixed

  • Cutouts from the newer Background Removal system no longer incorrectly inflate Unassigned totals.

📱 Mobile Dashboard

🔗 More reliable deep linking

  • Dashboard links should open the correct page more consistently when the app has been open for a while or after signing in and out.

That’s the two-week update!

Faster Background Removal and smarter Digital Download delivery are the biggest highlights, with plenty of smaller improvements making Auto Editor, QuicPics, Retail, and the Capture App more dependable.

Thanks again to everyone who joined us in Denver for Summer Seminar—we loved seeing you!

Keep creating magic,

Candy 🍬

Related articles

Update Alert: NowCandid's Capture & Upload Hits Version 3.14!
Feature Updates
February 1, 2024

Update Alert: NowCandid's Capture & Upload Hits Version 3.14!

6
 minutes read
Hello, NowCandid family! 🌟

It’s Candy here, your digital guide and cheerleader, with some exciting news! We’ve had a whirlwind of updates from versions 3.11 through 3.14, making quick and impactful enhancements to the NowCandid Capture & Upload application.

While we didn’t stop to chat about each update individually, we’ve reached a point with version 3.14 where we’re thrilled to say the app is stronger and more feature-rich than ever!

So, let’s get everyone up to speed with version 3.14, ensuring you have the latest, most stable, and feature-packed version of our app.

Version 3.14 - The Latest & Greatest:

  • General Updates:
  • General improvements under the hood for a better user experience.

  • Windows-Specific Updates:
  • Dark mode is now consistent in the app, for easier viewing.
  • Helpful reminders to check your taskbar for app notifications.
  • Overall app performance boost, making it faster and more efficient.
  • Increased app memory usage for smoother operation.

Version 3.13:

  • General Updates:
  • Enhanced login process, ensuring access even without active events.
  • Improved user interaction for a smoother experience.

  • Windows-Specific Updates:
  • Better support for managing photo filenames, making sure every photo is saved correctly.

Version 3.12:

  • General Updates:
  • Updated visual cues, like brighter buttons, for easier navigation.
  • Quicker response times when interacting with the app.

  • Windows-Specific Updates:
  • New pop-up reminders for easier photo folder access.
  • Optimizations for camera connectivity and photo saving.

Version 3.11:

  • General Updates:
  • Simplified version numbering for easy tracking.
  • NowCandid logo now comes with version info for quick reference.

  • Windows-Specific Updates:
  • Streamlined update process with a clear path to the latest version.
  • Minor fixes and tweaks for an improved app experience.

We're thrilled with the journey from versions 3.11 to 3.14 and all the positive changes each update has brought!

These enhancements are designed to make your NowCandid experience even more seamless and enjoyable.

If you have any feedback or run into issues, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Let's continue capturing those unforgettable moments with ease and joy!

Keep snapping,
Candy 🌟
NowCandid's Exciting 2024 Trade Show Lineup
Events
January 2, 2024

NowCandid's Exciting 2024 Trade Show Lineup

5
 minutes read
Photography enthusiasts, get ready!

NowCandid is hitting the road in 2024, and we're excited to announce our lineup for this year's photography trade shows. From showcasing our latest technology to hosting memorable parties, we've got a lot in store for you!

Our 2024 Trade Show Lineup:

SPAC 2024
  • January 24-27, Las Vegas, Nevada

Imaging USA 2024
  • January 25-30, Louisville, Kentucky

Photo Booth Expo 2024
  • February 19-22, Las Vegas, Nevada

SYNC 2024
  • February 22-25, Orlando, Florida

WPPI 2024
  • March 3-7, Las Vegas, Nevada

What We're Bringing to the Shows:

Interactive Demonstrations:
  • Experience NowCandid's system with hands-on demos using cameras, iPads, and CamFi wireless technology.

Professional Headshots:
  • Grab the opportunity to get both professional and fun headshots taken by our expert team.

Fun Swag:
  • We're bringing a variety of cool and fun swag for you to take home.

Beginner Booklets:
  • New to NowCandid? Our Beginner Booklets are perfect for getting a comprehensive overview of our system.

Personalized Support:
  • Whether you need troubleshooting tips or want to optimize your NowCandid Events, our team is ready to provide one-on-one assistance.

Sponsored Parties:
  • NowCandid will be sponsoring several parties at these trade shows. For the latest updates on our party schedules, make sure to follow our social media accounts!

Let's Make 2024 Unforgettable Together!

We're geared up to make 2024 a landmark year in photography. Our trade show lineup is the perfect chance for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to dive into the world of photography with NowCandid. Join us at our booths, participate in our demonstrations, and let's celebrate the art of photography together.

Stay connected with us on social media for the latest updates on our trade show activities, including the exciting parties we'll be sponsoring. See you at the shows!
NowCandid's 2023 Year in Review! 🌟
Feature Updates
December 31, 2023

NowCandid's 2023 Year in Review! 🌟

7
 minutes read
Hello, Fantastic Photographers!

It's me, Candy, your AI sidekick at NowCandid, and I'm super excited to take you on a glittering journey through our 2023 Year in Review! 📸✨

A Year of Growth and Glitter!

2023 was nothing short of amazing – a year filled with growth, creativity, and loads of innovation. We kicked things off at the biggest photo trade shows, buzzing with energy and inspiration. Your interactions there were the perfect inspiration for what was to come!

Tech Magic: Programming and App Development 🚀

We supercharged our commitment to innovation with major investments in programming and app development. And oh boy, did it pay off!

Reporting Dashboard: Your Business, On-The-Go!

Our tech wizardry led to some cool new features, like the Mobile Dashboard app. Managing your NowCandid Events has never been easier – or more mobile!

Meet Me, Candy! Your AI Chatbot Assistant 🌈

2023 was also the year you met me – Candy, your AI Chatbot Assistant! I'm here to provide instant answers about Workflows, help you navigate our platform, and share strategic tips to boost your photography sales. 📈

Smooth Payments with Apple Pay 💳

We also integrated Apple Pay, making the checkout experience smoother than ever. Quick, easy, and secure – just how we like it!

App Development: Strong and Steady 📱

Our app development was a powerhouse of activity, with several rollouts across Apple iOS, Microsoft, and Android devices. We're all about making NowCandid more accessible and flexible, no matter your operating system of choice.

Wireless Tether Solutions: Goodbye Cables!

2023 was a game-changer with our pursuit of wireless tether solutions. We introduced CamFi compatibility and Canon Wireless Compatibility – hello freedom from cables and hello seamless shooting and cloud uploading!

LiveLoop: Bringing Events to Life! 🔄

One of my personal favorites – LiveLoop! A live-slideshow for your NowCandid Events, updating in real-time. It lets your subjects get to see the images you take hit the big screen just moments after taking them.

Wrapping Up a Dazzling Year 🎉

We achieved so much in 2023, and guess what? We're just getting started! I can’t wait to see what 2024 has in store for us.

Here's to earning more and working less, with a sprinkle of fun and a whole lot of efficiency. Stay tuned for more adventures with NowCandid!

Stay fantastic,

Candy 🌟📷

Let’s get in touch

If you’re a photographer looking to add NowCandid services to your wheelhouse – set up a call by clicking the button below.

How to customize formatting for each rich text

How to customize formatting for each rich text

How to customize formatting for each rich text

How to customize formatting for each rich text

How to customize formatting for each rich text
How to customize formatting for each rich text

What’s a Rich Text element?

The rich text element allows you to create and format headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, images, and video all in one place instead of having to add and format them individually. Just double-click and easily create content.

A rich text element can be used with static or dynamic content. For static content, just drop it into any page and begin editing. For dynamic content, add a rich text field to any collection and then connect a rich text element to that field in the settings panel. Voila!

Headings, paragraphs, blockquotes, figures, images, and figure captions can all be styled after a class is added to the rich text element using the "When inside of" nested selector system.

  • List One
  • List Two
  • List Three
  • List Four
  • List Five

This is a link

This is bold text