vkdt is a free workflow toolbox for processing raw still photographs and video on Linux, macOS, and Windows. Its pipeline uses a flexible node graph with multiple inputs and outputs, implemented with GLSL shaders and Vulkan. Photography features include colour management, noise profiling, a folder-based image database, automatic parameter optimisation, and U-Net-based denoising. The maker also describes real-time workflows for animations, timelapses, and raw video, including Magic Lantern MLV and MotionCam inputs. Documented formats include JPEG, OpenEXR, raw stills, MLV, MotionCam raw video, and video, with exports such as JPEG, OpenEXR, JPEG XL, and video. A command-line utility is included; it replaces display nodes with export nodes. Downloads include a source release, nightly AppImage, nightly Windows binaries, and NixOS packages. vkdt requires a Vulkan-capable GPU. The maker recommends 4 GB of video RAM, or at least 8 GB for large graphs or images above 50 megapixels. The code is under a 2-clause BSD licence unless otherwise marked; some source files contain GPLv3 code.
Who it is for
vkdt suits photographers and video creators seeking a node-based raw processing workflow. Users need a Vulkan-capable GPU and may need more video RAM for large graphs or images.
What is good
- Supports raw stills, timelapses, and raw video.
- Includes colour management and U-Net-based denoising.
- Provides a command-line utility with export nodes.
- Free and available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
What to know first
- Requires a Vulkan-capable GPU.
- Maker recommends 4 GB video RAM, or 8 GB for larger work.
- Some source files contain GPLv3 code.
Verdict
vkdt combines raw photo and video processing with node-based workflows and command-line export. Its Vulkan requirement and recommended video RAM are key hardware considerations.
vkdt plans and pricing
All plansCompared on photo editing software
- Free plan
- Yes
