Another nice feature is the grid-like, photo preview mode called Quick Fix that allows the user to preview degrees of change to a photo before actually applying it. Having used a similar feature in Photoshop CS4 Extended, I can honestly say that I liked how Elements 8 executed it much better. In fact, the side-by-side, before and after feature, in tandem with the grid preview makes for a very robust, feature-rich and responsive photo editing process.
However, what really puts Photoshop Elements over the top is the inclusion of scalable panels, a moveable interface and tabbed browsing of open files.
I tested Photoshop Elements 8 on an Intel Core i7, 2.67 with 6 GB of RAM, running Windows 7, 64-bit and using an NVIDIA GTX 285 graphics card. Photoshop Elements proved to be pretty stable and responsive in this setup. (I also tested out Premiere Elements 8 and had similar stability problems to those mentioned by editor-in-chief, Jeremy Hanke, in his review of that program last month.)
The "cloud" button uses keyword tags to create a visual aggregate - with words that are used more often appearing larger.
Value
For any cost-conscious person looking for a solid photo editing program, Photoshop Elements 8 delivers the goods. It's not perfect, but the Photomerge Exposure and Recompose features are nearly enough to justify a purchase by themselves. Once you include the improvements to file organization, the online tutorials and the online storage/backup, it really becomes easier to justify. This is especially true for anyone that needs help organizing their files, is just entering the world of photo editing and/or wants to have more options regarding image control/manipulation.
Photoshop Elements provides a level of versatility and control missing from similarly priced editing software. So long as its limitations are understood, I believe most people will be happy with their purchase.
Final Comments I began the review process with some reservations about Photoshop Elements, but in the end, was pleasantly surprised. Keep in mind, the software isn't for everyone and a certain amount of tech comfort is required, but the learning curve isn't all that steep and it should serve as an excellent jumping off point for anyone that decides to upgrade to Photoshop CS4/CS5 at a later date.
As a photo editing software, Photoshop Elements 8 has a lot of potential and it should be accessible to a wide range of users and their varying comfort levels.
Ease
of Use
8.9
Depth
of Options
8.9
Performance
8.5
Value
vs. Cost
9.0
Overall Score
8.8
Nick Denney is a professional photographer, graphic designer and editor; as well as an independent filmmaker, who has been involved in the film industry, in one form or another, for almost 10 years. He recently finished work on the short film "The Guardian" of which he was the writer, director and producer. His previous credits include Visual Effects Director for Ray Bradbury's and Garry Marshall's theatrical production of "Fahrenheit 451".
