New imaging software enhances pictures

As an avid digital-image maker, I try to keep up to speed on the latest digital imaging programs. That's not easy to do. Seems like a new, or updated, version of an existing imaging program is introduced every month. What's more, I try to become familiar with as many programs as possible so I can share their benefits with readers of this column.

Here is a look at just a few of the latest digital-imaging programs that you can use to enhance and fix your pictures. You can get a preview of these programs by checking them on the Web.

Image Doctor -- (Alien Skin Software, www.alienskin.com). With a click of a mouse, this program allows you to repair badly compressed JPEG images, remove blemishes, restore textures and remove dust spots. It's one of the easiest programs to use.

Studio Artist 2.0 -- (Synthetik Software, www.synthetik.com). Studio Artist 2.0 is a program for serious image makers. With a virtually unlimited number of effects, it lets you transform even a snapshot into a creative work of art. Eight hours of tutorials come with the program. It's one of the more complex programs to use.

Test Strip -- (Vivid Details Incorporated, www.vividdetails.com). Based on the test strip techniques that are used in the traditional darkroom, Test Strip lets you make changes to an image, see side-by-side comparisons, and then lets you print out the test strip. The benefit is that you can get an inkjet print that matches the picture on your monitor, something that is not always easy to do.

Extensis PhotoFrame 2.0 -- (Extensis, www.extensis.com). All pictures look better in frames. With this easy-to-use program, you can add creative edges and frames to your pictures in a few seconds. You have control over the size, shape, color and texture of the frame. An easy-to-use program.

Panorama Maker 2002 -- (ArcSoft, www.arcsoft.com). Panoramic pictures often are stunning, giving us a view of our world that we seldom see in a picture. With Panorama Maker, you can easily combine a sequence of pictures into a seamless panorama.

Adobe Elements 2.0 -- (Adobe, www.adobe.com). For photographers who don't need all the capabilities of Adobe's Photoshop, which offers virtually unlimited control over a picture, there is Adobe Elements 2.0. This program is easier to use than Photoshop and has many of Photoshop's essential features. It's also a fraction of the cost.

For updates on these programs, which are sure to come shortly, check the manufacturers' Web sites.

A tip on learning how to use any digital imaging program: Learn one feature at a time. Don't try to master the entire program in one session. Take your time and enjoy the process.

Have fun working and playing in the digital darkroom.

Rick Sammon is the author of 21 books about photography and marine conservation.