As a self-described "hands-on kind of guy", I've always preferred the "workhorse" capabilities of Adobe Photoshop over the more consumer-based, Elements lineup. For the most part, it's been my experience that consumer-oriented editing software simply doesn't provide the user with enough control over the editing process; instead, relying on single-use, quick fixes and "canned" effects that may save time, but generally don't provide a quality result.
Still, not everyone has the time, the patience, or the need to learn the ins and outs of a professional suite of software. Sometimes all you want to do is remove the redeye from Jimmy's birthday photo, or do some basic color correction. Traditionally, that has been the niche this software has filled, but Photoshop Elements 8 is attempting to separate itself from that stigma by offering its users exactly what other software doesn't and, by doing so, appeal to a growing market of moderately experienced, critically-minded users.
Like a lot of people, I tend to get overwhelmed when first opening a new piece of software and opening the Organizer in Photoshop Elements 8 proved to be no different. Upon loading the provided media library, I was greeted with a slew of images I didn't recognize (obviously), various colored tags identifying the photos and the occasional pop-up inquiring "who is this" about photos with recognizable people that hadn't been tagged.
Thankfully, there is a "hub" in the upper right corner that provides the starting point for everything a user may want to accomplish. From basic organizing, to basic photo edits; video and stills templates to options for exporting, the heart of Elements is found in this "hub" via the "organize", "fix", "create" and "share" tabs. Everything is there via a tab or drop down menu, it's just a matter of finding it and knowing it's available.
Again, it's obvious that Photoshop Elements 8 is focused on appealing to users with average to above average knowledge of editing software and to those with an eye towards quality and flexibility. The tech savvy won't have a problem navigating the feature-rich interface, finding menus and exploring the many options available, but what of those who aren't all that savvy?
I did my best to put myself in the place of a grandparent simply trying to improve a photo of their grandchild and, in doing so, I nearly went cross-eyed from the number of options available. For the uninitiated, Elements 8 skirts dangerously close to its CS counterpart by offering so many different ways of accomplishing something, that the sheer number of options becomes confusing and a little intimidating.
