For newcomers to the world of digital manipulation or for those on a budget, Elements 9 is a basic version of the bigger Photoshop CS5 package. With the more advanced options removed, you get a refined piece of software with all the key editing tools and RAW converter software included at a reasonable price – ideal for anyone who is easily overwhelmed by masses of sophisticated slider options.Using a simplified version of the Adobe Camera Raw 6 (ACR) plug-in, Adobe Photoshop Elements has many of the advanced options removed, such as geometric distortion correction and Tone Curve, making it capable of only more basic RAW conversions – this isn’t to say that Elements 9 is lacking, however. With all of the necessary features making an appearance, beginners will easily be able to start learning about RAW conversions without being distracted or put off by the more advanced option tabs. With the latest Camera RAW 6.3 update installed, you will also be able to process RAW files for the latest camera models, including the Olympus E-5 and Panasonic GF2 (reviewed on page 84).
In addition to the RAW converter, Elements 9 provides both a basic Organizer option to aid in file sorting, along with a streamlined version of the Photoshop editing software.
Although the ACR plug-in has been simplified to just three option tabs (as opposed to 10 with CS5) it does to a degree work in its favour by making the application more beginner-friendly. In general, the sliders are quick to respond with changes to the RAW files appearing almost instantly. If you create a conversion you like, settings can also be saved and used for future projects to help save time and speed up workflow.
For a reasonable £58, it’s perfect for those on a tight budget looking to get started in photo editing. If you already own an older version of Elements and you’re looking to step-up to the latest software package, Adobe offers an upgrade service, which will provide a copy of Elements 9 for a discounted £65. However, it’s well worth shopping around first, as we were able to find a full physical copy of Elements 9 for £58 - much cheaper than Adobe’s upgrade price.
Elements 9 is a great option for anyone who wants to get started in both RAW conversions and the world of Photoshop, but either doesn’t have the bank balance or confidence to tackle the full CS5 head on. Also, the majority of Digital Photo’s Photoshop techniques are compatible with Photoshop and Elements 9 (unless stated), so you won’t miss out on too much.
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