Exposure is a new Photoshop plug-in from Alien Skin, designed to simulate film.
The plug-in contains a selection of pre-sets that replicate the effect of current and discontinued colour and mono film stock, including: Velvia, Ektachrome and Kodachrome. Instead of adding harsh noise, like some programs, it works by replicating real-life grain in the shadow, mid-tone and highlight areas. Even replicating distinct grain like Ilford 3200 Delta and Ektachrome EES.
Push processing, cross processing and glamour portrait softening ? all studio and darkroom effects ? can also be applied to images using the plug-in.
Alien Skin claims that the plug-in simplifies workflow, enabling the dynamic range, softness, grain controls and colour to be adjusted. Curves editing includes high-level contrast, shadow and highlight tools, while colour and saturation can be adjusted using a slider.
Exposure encourages non-destructive editing, enabling adjustments to be made on a layer in Photoshop. The interface includes a preview split screen and before and after buttons, while unlimited undo/redo features make it easy to correct mistakes.
Retailing for around £112 ($199), Exposure is compatible with Adobe Photoshop CS and later and Elements 3 or later. Discounts are available for registered users of other Alien Skin products, when ordering from www.alienskin.com