NGW combines computer vision, physics simulation, and AI to deliver actionable lighting intelligence from any reference photo.
Every photo is analyzed through 35+ specialized computer vision passes. Shadow geometry, catchlight topology, highlight axis mapping, highlight symmetry, specular surface classification, color temperature estimation, penumbra gradients, continuous source detection, bounce contributor analysis, separation light identification, off-axis key measurement, light structure mapping, inverse-square fall-off modeling, and more — all from a single image.
NGW identifies the photographer archetype behind any lighting setup. The classifier analyzes pipeline signals to match against archetypes like Hurley (continuous triangle headshots), Adler (beauty clamshell), Karsh (dramatic Rembrandt), Penn (specular fashion), and Leibovitz (editorial narrative). Each classification includes confidence scoring, matched signals, and a consistency check across multiple analysis dimensions.
A vision-language model examines each photo to extract information that pure computer vision cannot detect: expression nuance, cosmetic details, styling context, and framing decisions. The VLM enriches the pipeline output without replacing any CV analysis.
NGW's reference matcher scores your analysis against a curated library of classic lighting patterns. Rembrandt, butterfly, loop, split, clamshell, broad, short, and more — each with multiple weighted dimensions for accurate classification.
No reference photo? No problem. Choose a mood, subject type, and style through a guided wizard. NGW generates a complete lighting setup from scratch with power, position, modifier, and diagram — tailored to your gear and space.
Upload any reference photo. NGW decodes the lighting and delivers a step-by-step recreation guide matched to your specific equipment. Includes pattern identification, confidence scoring, and complete setup specifications.
Take your attempt, then compare it side-by-side with the reference. NGW evaluates the match across multiple dimensions and suggests precise adjustments to close the gap.
Activate one of 9 photographer-inspired Master Modes. Each mode filters every recommendation through the lens of a legendary photographer's approach: Hurley, Adler, Heisler, Bryce, Caravaggio, Penn, Karsh, and Leibovitz. Master Modes adjust modifier preferences, lighting ratios, and stylistic decisions.
Tell NGW what lights and modifiers you own. When you analyze a reference photo, Shoot Mode maps the recommendation to your specific gear with real distances, angles, and power settings. Take test shots and NGW evaluates your results with a step-by-step checklist.
Every analysis produces a top-down lighting diagram showing key, fill, rim, and background lights with their positions, angles, heights, and modifiers. Diagrams are interactive in the app and exportable as images.
Plan your shoot in 3D. Use camera measurement or manual entry to map your space dimensions, then see exactly where to place each light. Room Planner validates that your setup fits and flags spatial constraints before you start shooting.
Browse a curated collection of classic lighting patterns. Each reference includes a full analysis breakdown, setup specifications, and a lighting diagram you can follow step by step.
After analysis, NGW suggests specific adjustments to improve your setup. Raise the key light, move a modifier closer, adjust the fill ratio — each recommendation is tied to a specific pipeline observation.
Choose from 5 photographer-tuned themes (DayNote, Light, Photoshop, Lightroom, Dark), 5 typefaces (System, Sans, Source, Mono, Serif), 5 text sizes, and 3 density levels. Every setting takes effect instantly with no reload.