BirdCull vs Selekt

BirdCull is desktop software for reviewing bird-photo burst sequences and selecting stronger candidates. It groups similar images, then scores them using head and eye visibility, sharpness, pose, and differences within each burst. The process is local: BirdCull says photo files, paths, and EXIF metadata are not uploaded. Results can be exported as grouped hard-link folders or star-rated XMP sidecars for Lightroom, Bridge, Photo Mechanic, and similar tools. AI-assisted culling and RAW preview are supported. The free trial processes up to 200 photos per capture date. A full license costs $49 as a one-time purchase, removes the trial batch limit, and includes folder rating output, star XMP output, and email support for purchase and activation issues. One user may activate and use a purchased license. Windows support covers 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11. The current Mac package targets Apple silicon Macs with M-series processors, not Intel Macs. For large photo days, BirdCull recommends at least 16 GB of RAM, SSD storage, and local drives instead of network folders. Purchases are non-refundable.

Selekt is a desktop photo library manager for photographers, with tools to import, organize, cull, rate, process RAW images, and tag photos. It groups bursts, similar frames, and duplicates for comparison, while on-device scoring checks focus, exposure, and blur using profiles for weddings, portraits, sports, and events. Optional cloud analysis can flag closed eyes, create face close-ups, and tag subjects and scenes for search. Importing, manual culling, and export work offline; cloud AI, sync, and client proofing need an internet connection. The app runs on Apple silicon and Intel Macs and has a 64-bit installer for Windows 10 and 11. Supported formats include camera RAW files such as CR2/CR3, NEF, ARW, RAF, RW2, ORF, PEF, SRW, and DNG, plus JPEG, TIFF, PNG, HEIC, and HEIF. XMP sidecars can be exported for Lightroom Classic, Capture One, and Adobe Bridge. Import, culling, and export do not require sign-in; a free account enables AI scoring and grouping. The Free plan includes cloud AI for 100 photos/month and 1 GB sync and client proofing. Pro costs A$16 a month and includes unlimited cloud AI and 10 GB sync and client proofing.