Mac Users: What Photo Software Do You Use?

I just plunked down some bills on a new 24" iMac computer. Getting a Mac was something I've wanted to do for sometime, but I had to wait in line after buying a MacBook laptop for my college aged daughter (they always come first!) two years ago.

I've been using Microsoft Digital Image Pro package on a PC, but never really learned it well enough to take advantage of all its features. I'm thinking about Adobe's Photoshop, particularly Photoshop Elements 6 (since 7 is only for Windows) since it is simpler and cheaper. On the other hand, I hear it has a poor interface and can be tough to figure out. My new computer comes with iPhoto 09 so I'm also unclear whether this will be sufficient for coin image cropping, etc.

Does anyone have a Mac and can offer any advice?

 

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I also have a 24" iMac. I've been using Photoshop Elements 6 for some time now. For simple cropping and minor touching up of a photo it's fairly easy to use. As much as I like iPhoto it does not offer nearly as many editing options. In my opinion I would use PS Elements.

 

Are you able to circle crop?

 

Unfortunately no but it hasn't been to big of an issue at this point.

 

I use photoscape, it is very simple to use, and you can do what you need to do, fast. (You just need to play with it a little, and get used to it)

(P.S.) Isn't there a general discussion forum that this thread could go in?

EDIT: Oops nevermind, I don't think that photoscape can be downloaded on a MAC.

 

You sure did

There is one by Coral (sp?) that I've used - it is pretty nice and does alot. I think it was a download off their website for something like $50-$60.
The only thing is if you are used to Photoshop it will drive you nuts - if you are a "newbe" and can stand learning stuff all over again then it would be fine.

I seem to get in a rut and don't like to relearn all of that stuff!

Speedy

 

I'm a Mac lifer. It's hard to bite that bullet on a new Mac purchase, but it will sure pay you back in dependability and ease of use for the long run. I am a Graphic Designer and Art Director. I do a lot of layout design in advertising, can do acceptable retouching, digital photography and the like in my work and consider myself professional/expert level at using most Adobe products for image creation and use in layout (I'm not as versed in the web and user interface design software or motion apps). I use Abode Creative Suite Professional 3 and 4 at home and at work. I've not used any of the other software such as iPhoto / iLife or the Adobe elements you mentioned, because I have the upper tier graphics applications. I have iPhoto as it comes packaged on the Macs, but I never have opened it since I do everything myself in Photoshop.

For me, there's no point limiting your potential and capabilities with these tools by buying the Lite versions. So if you are comfortable using these apps and use them a lot for various things, the money is worth buying the full Photoshop app over the elements versions. If budget takes precedent or you have such a limited need in these graphics apps then finding the streamlined software might be better for you.

Let me know if you have something other specific in mind about this stuff that I could try to answer for you.

Cheers!

 

Yeah the gimp http://www.gimp.org

 

yeah, I've heard the Gimp is okay.
Try looking into that, probably about like Pshop Elements from what I hear about it.

 

I tried Gimp and couldn't stand it. I think I deleted it the same day.

Speedy

 

Yeah - you said that and we established that you used an ancient version imported to windows which I agree sucked as much as windows itself

 

http://www.gimp.org/macintosh/

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Getting and Installing GIMP

There are various ways to obtain and install GIMP for your Macintosh. In addition to the source code distribution here on www.gimp.org, there are various alternative sources for packaged and even commercially distributed CDs, which aim to make installation and setup an easier task. These include:

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http://docs.gimp.org/2.6/en/

 

BTW Catbird - that Icon I use was made with the Gimp.

 

Very cool, Ruben. I have not set up my new iMac yet, but I will check out Gimp once I'm up an running. Thanks and I may be checking in with you for advice!

 

Your always welcome to. You can call me if you want as well.

 

i use iCollage for Mac