Panorama photography presents unique challenges, both in the field and during post-processing. For years, PTGui has been a favorite powerhouse tool for photographers needing more control and better results than the basic stitching tools provide. Now, with the release of PTGui 13, this already excellent panorama stitching software gets a significant update, focusing on a streamlined DNG-based workflow, performance boosts, and useful new features. Is it worth the upgrade?

First things first: If you purchased a personal license on or after September 1st, 2022, you're already covered, as PTGui 13 is a free upgrade for you. Users with older licenses can purchase an upgrade at a reduced price. It's also a good time to consider the Pro version, as the feature gap between Standard and Pro continues to grow. The Pro license unlocks key functions like automatic optimum seam placement, batch stitching, HDR blending, tone mapping, viewpoint correction, the Fill Holes function, and the new Patch Tool. In this review, I'll be taking a look at the Pro version, but the only Pro-specific features discussed are automatic seam placement, the Patch Tool, and batch processing.

One of the few advantages that panorama processing in Lightroom had was the DNG workflow. By keeping more of the raw file information, users had an easier time stitching first and then editing a completed panorama, compared to the general panorama workflow of making edits to individual images, exporting TIFFs, stitching, then touching up the finished panorama.