To get the new versions of the Codec Nora Preset, You can simply go to the original patreon post. There is now a light, standard, and heavy version of the preset, which relates to some internal math regarding the emulated “print contrast”. I have completely removed the old preset: https://www.patreon.com/pro_dabbler/posts/darktable-agx-168542490
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the old Codec Nora vs the new codec_v2_nora_heavy preset. I think it handles the shadows very well now, even though it is still quite a contrasty preset. Each preset version of the new Nora is definitely useful for different kinds of images. Their differences go beyond just contrast.
In all, there are three versions of Codec Nora. These different version try to emulate the effect of using different photo paper for the analog printing process. The primary function of the different versions is to provide various overall contrast options for different shooting situations:
codec__v2_nora_light: uses a light “print contrast” parameter value within codec, resulting in a lighter contrast image with a shape closest to the source film’s characteristic curve.
codec__v2_nora_standard: uses a medium “print contrast” value within codec, resulting in a more standard level of image contrast a more sigmoidally skewed version of the source film’s characteristic curve.
codec_v2_nora_heavy: uses a heavy “print contrast” value within codec, resulting in a more standard level of image contrast and a heavily skewed version of the source film’s characteristic curve.
