Editing software

clarionite · #1 (**permalink**) 04-26-2008, 01:31 AM

I'm a cheapskate when it comes to software (which is hillarious when you consider that's what I do for a day job, write software)

I use Capture one 4 and DPP for my post processing. I've done nothing with PS, but I'm starting to get tempted by looking at all the cool stuff you guys have done on here.

Would it be worth getting a copy of PS Elements for $99 to start out with, or is it so watered down that I'd end up being disappointed and spend the $650 anyways for CS3?

I've never used either one. I have no Idea why I cringe at spending $650 for software, and think $650 for glass is reasonable, but for now I do. But what would drive me nuts would be to spend $99 for something and realize it was a waste of my time and money.

soupman · #2 (**permalink**) 04-26-2008, 09:19 AM

I used Paint Shop Pro for the last eight years I guess (it seems like it has been longer). It has the capability to do much of what a amature digital photographer would want to do. The price is far more affordable and you will learn about and use layers and other basic controls of a digital photograph.

I recently purchased CS3 and have a lot to learn...but having used PSP, much of what I am learning in CS3 is familiar...and that helps. Even the way CS3 uses windows, palletes, etc. are similar. When I inquired about Elements, I was told that it was pretty basic. I was wondering the same thing you are...will Elements prepare me for CS3. Since I haven't used Elements I can only go on what I was told.

What I do know is, is that both PSP and CS3 are very intimidating when you open them for the first time.

clarionite · #3 (**permalink**) 04-26-2008, 11:36 AM

Thanks Soupman...

I hadn't even thought about PSP.

Electricseashell · #4 (**permalink**) 04-27-2008, 09:38 PM

Here's a free program just to get a taste of what PSP is like GIMP - The GNU Image Manipulation Program

Arbib · #5 (**permalink**) 04-28-2008, 03:38 PM

I second PSP. I have version 10.3...Although it is very capable for the advanced editing, it is also a friendly GUI..for the most of the basic stuff.. PSP X2 (12) adds a merge tool,too merge 2 photographs into one..like for HDR stuff. for $100.00 max..(can be found a little cheaper here and there)..It is a great editor..(PSP 10 has some legacy dialogs from PSP 8/9 (but, they are in the pull down menus or "Customise Tool Bar" dialogs).