Can Dehancer Replace Film? A Hands-On Review of the Ultimate Film Emulation Software
TL;DR: Looking for that perfect cinematic, film-like aesthetic without the hassle of shooting on actual film? Discover how Dehancer can revolutionize your photo editing workflow by bringing iconic film looks into your digital world—with unmatched realism and creative control.
Why Everyone’s Talking About the “Filmic Look” — And How You Can Get It Without Shooting Film
If you've spent any time on Instagram, YouTube, or in photography communities recently, you've probably seen a surge in the popularity of film-inspired edits. From moody Portra tones to the grainy texture of classic black-and-white stocks, the film look is in.
But here's the question everyone is asking:
Can software really replace film?
I’ve been experimenting with different ways to break free from the overly clinical, digital feel of modern photography—chasing that nostalgic warmth and raw imperfection only film seems to offer. So when Dehancer reached out and offered me a trial license in exchange for an honest review, I jumped at the chance. Spoiler alert: I was seriously impressed.
What is Dehancer?
Dehancer is a professional-grade film emulation plugin available for:
Lightroom
Photoshop
Capture One
Affinity Photo
Video editing software (Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve)
iOS (mobile editing)
It lets you emulate 60+ authentic film stocks, complete with tools like:
Print film simulation
Film grain
Halation
Bloom
Vignetting
Dust & scratches
And much more…
📸 Pro tip: It’s not just a set of LUTs. It’s a full creative suite for film simulation.
First Impressions: Smooth Setup, Stunning Interface
Installation was quick and seamless. Once loaded into Lightroom, the interface is intuitive. Presets are organized on the left, and all the detailed adjustments sit on the right. It’s beautifully laid out—ideal for photographers who want control without chaos.
Real-Time Editing Walkthrough
Image 1: Cinematic Everyday
Starting with a clean edit in Lightroom—white balance, exposure, and crop—I exported to Dehancer via a simple right-click. Once inside Dehancer, I explored different film stocks with a click, then tweaked things like:
Print stock (adds paper character)
Color head (YMC-BGR tone controls)
Film grain (algorithmically adds realistic texture)
Halation (those glowing red halos around highlights)
Bloom (adds soft glow to bright areas)
Every slider felt powerful but not overwhelming. Dehancer’s masking tools even let you preview where halation or bloom will affect your image.
💡 Editor’s note: Dehancer doesn’t just apply overlays—it rebuilds your image based on real film chemistry. The result? Authenticity.
Image 2: Adding Grit to a Spooky Scene
For the second image, I skipped the film stock and went straight to adding texture using:
Bloom
Halation
Dust & Scratches
This gave the image a haunting, vintage edge that Lightroom alone couldn’t achieve. You’re not locked into presets—you’re free to experiment with endless combinations.
Mobile Editing? Yes, Please.
Dehancer’s iOS app brings the full desktop experience to your phone, making it easy to edit, experiment, and share on the go. Perfect for creators who want filmic looks straight from their camera roll.
Dehancer vs LUTs: What Makes It Different?
LUTs are limited. They apply color values without adapting to your image’s light or texture. Dehancer, on the other hand, is a full simulation engine, rebuilding your photo with film physics in mind—right down to the grain structure and bloom dispersion.
📚 Read more on Dehancer’s blog about why it’s not just a LUT
What About the Downsides?
Every tool has trade-offs. Here are a few things to consider:
Price: $199 USD for lifetime access (or shorter-term licenses available).
No bulk editing in Lightroom: This could be time-consuming if you’re processing hundreds of images. But scripts in Photoshop offer a workaround.
Limited shortcuts: For example, zooming lacks the finesse of Lightroom’s controls. Not a deal-breaker, but worth noting.
Final Verdict: Can Dehancer Replace Film?
In a word: No.
But here’s the thing—it’s not trying to.
Film is a tactile, unpredictable, emotional process. Dehancer isn’t a replacement—it’s a bridge. A tool that brings the look and feel of film into your digital workflow with stunning authenticity.
For digital creatives who crave cinematic style without the cost, wait time, or trial-and-error of real film, Dehancer is a game-changer.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist, if you want more control over your aesthetic and faster results, Dehancer is well worth the investment.
🎁 Get 10% Off Dehancer
Use my exclusive affiliate link for 10% off any Dehancer Photo Plugin license (excluding mobile). Support the blog and save on your new favorite editing tool!
Ready to Try It?
👉 Explore Dehancer and get the film look without the film hassle.
From dusty vintage vibes to bold Kodak classics it’s all possible.
🔗 Click here to learn more about Dehancer and download your trial.