An idea, Suggestion : detachable modules

Software darktable
1

Hello,

The idea is to detach a module from the right panel of the darkroom and use it in a separate window.

How it works:

  • A new button appears in the header of each module, to the right of the on/off button.
  • Click it, and the controls, guides, and masking/blur interface open in a resizable window.
  • The window has an automatic vertical scrollbar if the content overflows.
  • A placeholder takes the module’s place in the panel, with an “✕” to reattach it.
  • You can also close the window directly to reattach it.

What is preserved:

  • The module’s order in the panel.
  • The development pipeline remains unchanged.
    The feature has been tested with several modules. Feedback is welcome.

The idea can be tested on my experimental version

Greetings from the Luberon

1 Like
2

Interesting idea. Reminds me of GIMP. I am just wondering what advantage it gives the user and if it is solving any problem that exists with fix modules? Still, nice to see your creative mind at play once again.

3

Though I would probably not use it I think it will have its fans. But I am worried about cluttering the module panels with yet another button. IMHO this would need an option to be turned off in the preferences.

4

I think this was discussed before. I think it is a solution looking a problem. It will make the pixel pipe ordering super confusing.

edit:
Plus there is also muscle memory. I can process 100 images quickly because my hand knows the location of the module without thinking about it. Floating stuff makes it unpredictable.

4 Likes
5

I would never use this… I hated so much in GIMP that I have not used GIMP till the single window mode came around. Too cluttered.

The only benefit Is in a multi monitor setup. But since I am traveling often, I don’t have that always at disposal. And even them, would prefer to have on the second monitor a full screen version of the image I am editing.

6

I would definitely never use it.

7

I do like the idea … Christian :+1: :sunglasses:

1 Like
8

While I might want to see the sidebars detached (so I can move them to another screen and have more room for the image), I won’t use detaching individual modules: detach several modules, and you end up with too many (small) windows (for my taste).

Also: how do you handle switching images and duplicating a detached module?

1 Like
9

Hello,

Thank you for the quick response.
I used it for a series of photos (about 20) without any issues.
My goal is indeed to work with two screens; the windows stay in place when switching between images but disappear when I exit the darkroom.

I fully understand that this might be disruptive; I see it more as an option, a possibility, and it’s fairly easy to integrate into the preferences.

Capture d’écran du 2026-05-16 21-28-18
Capture d’écran du 2026-05-16 21-28-181299×774 69.5 KB

Greetings from the Luberon, :wine_glass:
Christian

10

I am using two monitors … so far mainly for the work with Photoshop to have the palettes on the second screen .
No idea how to set up DT for the use with two monitors ???!!
I have tried to move the detached module to the second screen , but then it disappears ?!

Can you shed some light into my brain ?

Regards Andreas