MGI Photosuite III: Everyone should have it
Written: Jul 02 '01
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Simple and effective. A powerful utility at a reasonable price.
Cons: Poor screen layout.
The Bottom Line: The best imaging software under $100, for power, simplicity, and features.
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| B_Campbell's Full Review: MGI Software PhotoSuite III Platinum Edition (Lice... |
In recent years, the computer has evolved from a word processing and number crunching machine into a household appliance that combines everything from shopping to the family photo album. It seems like almost everyone has a digital camera or a sanner and has thier family memories stored on the PC, ready to print, copy, or email to friends. While everyone is aware of the neccessity of a good image capture device, PC system, and high-quality printer, many overlook the image editing software they use. Instead of looking around for a good utility, they use either what came with thier computer or with thier imaging device.
This is where Photosuite III steps in. In fact, many devices come with a special, limited version of Photosuite, but the full 'platinum' edition is one of the best choices for image editing and organization. MGI has refined thier product to compete with much more expensive programs yet still retain the ease of use that many customers look for.
Photosuite III serves two main functions: It is an image editor and an image organizer. As far as organization goes, it's pretty standard; you can group your images into various photo albums, just liek many other programs. However, MGi's slick and easy to use interface and extensive help and walkthrough support make it easy and quick to use.
As an image editor MGI does far more than you would expect for the price. It has extensive quality and touchup editing, and features image layering for experienced users. There are dozens of special effects to choose from, and it also features the remarkable PhotoTapestry option. You've probably seen similar effects in magazines or billboards; PhotoTapestry takes a picture of yours, and with the prvided images from the CD, 'weaves' together hundreds of images that look like your original when viewed from a distance. While this is no less gimmicky than the 'morhping' some programs feature, Photosuite's extensive and powerful editing tools let experienced and novice users alike turn thier snapshots into beautiful photographs.
Photsuite supports image capture directly from almost any source; digital cameras, scanners, QuickCams, or even online sources are no problem. You can easily capture your images directly from your device; no hassling with intermediary programs. With 3 or 4 simple clicks, you can capture your image from whatever source, and you're ready to edit or organize it.
The one flaw that Photsuite suffers from is the screen layout. While the interface is well composed and easy to use, the layout intrudes a bit upon the image editing process. The screen is laid out much like a webpage with frames. The left side has a list of options pertaining to what exactly you're doing. For example, if you're capturing an image, the left side of the screen will have a list of devices to capture from. The right side displays the contents of your current photo album, and the top of the screen has the main selection buttons, so the actual working area only comprises 60-70% of the screen. Those with 15" or smaller monitors may find this a hassle, though this software is still powerful enough to perform.
Overall, Photosuite is the best buy under $100 for image editing. If you want power, ease of use, and simplicity, Photosuite's simple interface and oodles of editing tools will deliver just what you need to become an imaging pro.
Recommended:
Yes
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B_Campbell
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Member: Bennett Campbell
Location: In a Volkswagen somewhere in upstate NY
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