I enjoy portrait and astro photography with my Canon 6D, but am frustrated with using GIMP despite having learned advanced techniques (I.e. changing eye color, smoothing complexion, etc.). My priorities are tethering, RAW editing, and photo management. I've narrowed it down to On1 or Luminer. Subscriptions are not an option.
Any suggestions?
I really dig capture one pro. look up videos on it's retouching and tethering capabilities and see if that fits your needs. I hear it's great for tethering but I've never had the opportunity to use it so i couldn't tell you from personal experience. i'm really diggin it. It's fast and responsive. It handles colors, highlights, and shadows faaar better than light room ever could. Also capture one has a few different purchasing methods. I did the upfront cost of i think it was $300. But there is a subscription plan too and some other one i can't remember. good luck and happy hunting!