Canva Affinity

Software Overview

Canva Affinity is a professional creative software suite used by designers, photographers, illustrators, and publishers that includes photo editing, vector illustration, and page layout design capabilities. The Affinity app replaced the Affinity Photo, Designer, and Publisher programs when Canva acquired Serif in March 2024.

Affinity supports raster graphics (pixel-based), vector graphics, and multi-page layout workflows. The software primarily uses the proprietary .AF format to save projects, which preserve layers, edits, and design elements. It can also import and export common formats such as .JPG, .PNG, .TIFF, .PDF, .PSD, and .SVG.

A key feature of Affinity is its non-destructive workflow, which allows users to make edits without permanently altering the original image or design. It uses layers extensively, along with adjustment layers, masks, and live effects to enable flexible and reversible editing. Affinity also includes advanced tools such as retouching brushes, pen and node tools for precise vector creation, and layout grids for print design. It is widely used for professional print production, digital illustration, UI design, and photo retouching, with built-in export options for web, print, and digital publishing workflows.

Summary

Affinity is a professional design app used by creatives for photo editing, vector illustration, and page layout design. Key features include support for raster and vector workflows, various file formats, and a non-destructive layer-based editing system. It also offers a wide range of professional design and retouching tools, making Canva Affinity a strong, free alternative to subscription-based creative software, like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.

Primary File Type

.AFAffinity Document

Supported File Types

Additional Related File Types