Review: Optical Flares, Pg. 4

Value
Video Copilot has to be crazy to offer all of this for $129. They could easily double the price of this plugin and it would still be a bargain. In addition to the suite, the stellar tutorials, downloadable project files,and  presets; the dedication of the Video Copilot developer team provides a lot value-added to your purchase. That being said, this plugin is not made for people who aren't seriously into exploring some cool new ideas with their motion graphics. Optical Flares is strictly for taking your designs OVER the edge. In size and scope, Optical Flares would appeal to designers who find great value in experimenting with "deep" plugins like Trapcode Particular or Zaxwerks ProAnimator. Failing that, any lens flare effect might suit you just as well.

Final Comments
I was initially super excited for the release of Optical Flares and Video Copilot blew me away by exceeding all of my expectations. There is no doubt that Optical Flares will become an industry-standard suite in no time. It's unfortunate that a demo is not available for download, because I'm convinced that once most users get their hands dirty with Optical Flares they will immediately be hooked.

	Ease of Use             9.0 Depth of Options             10.0 Performance             9.0             Value vs. Cost             10.0        Overall Score 9.5

Nikc Miller is co-producer of Livelihood, and director and editor of several award winning short films. He currently works as an After Effects Artist at Render Perfect Productions in Baltimore. Nikc specializes in consulting small businesses and entrepreneurs on how to increase their visibility by using video and multimedia.

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