This is the latest version of Serif?s PC-only digital image editor, boasting image enhancement and adjustment tools plus image organiser AlbumPlus4, which includes project templates and the ability to view images as slideshows.



The updated main package features new user-friendly features including QuickFix Studio (which includes a straighten tool for wonky horizons), a helpful ?How to? tab to get instant help on what the tools actually do, plus a useful ?crop to print size? feature (including the opportunity to set a custom crop), and an instant screen capture setting.



Several interesting new filters have also been added to the package, including a chromatic aberration remover, lens vignetting, lens filter, lens distortions and depth of field blur, with the ability to zoom in for greater visual control.



All these suggest the product as suitable for beginners upwards, as does a ?dual image preview? feature, which handily displays any changes alongside the original image, while ? like exemplar image editor Photoshop ? letting the user undo or redo changes.



Offering compatibility with Windows 98SE, Me, 2000 and XP, a set-up wizard guides you quickly through the installation process. Once done and the program launched, the interface and toolbox will appear somewhat familiar to Photoshop users, while remaining unthreatening enough not to daunt first-time image editors.
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Verdict

There?s a lot on offer here for the price, which is good news for anyone who can?t afford the outlay for CS2 and wants a user-friendly alternative that will suffice for all bar the most complex of projects. Existing users wanting to upgrade are advised to call 0800 376 7070 for current prices.