Which Photoshop?

I say you can't go wrong with Elements... esp. if you're just getting into PP with layers, filters, etc., its got plenty to keep you busy for quite awhile... plus, there is an upgrade path to re-coup most of the cost of Elements should you decide to go full-blown CS3.

Elements often gets the short-end of the stick from those who have never used it... I've seen implications (even in photography mags) that Elements can't handle RAW, or can't do layers... which simply isn't true. ((In reality it CAN do RAW using same ACR plugin as CS3, just a few tools disabled... and it CAN do layers quite nicely, just not a full featured set of adjustment layers.))

sikeman1 wrote in post #4924705
What is the oldest version that would still be worthwhile?

I wouldn't get anything earlier than CS2, as the updates for new cameras that come out are only produced for the current PS version. This may not affect jpeg shooters, but if you ever use RAW (which is far better, if you don't need rapid fire capability and keep filling your buffer) it won't see your files in the RAW converter. You can get around that by converting in DPP and then transferring to PS though.

Frankly though, the later versions are much improved over early versions but cost big bucks, way above your budget. With a limit of $100 your only PS option is Elements.

klynam wrote in post #4924871
Pleaes don't take this wrong, but it's sort of like asking about the gas mileage for a new Ferrari...if you have to ask, you can't afford it.

People who really "need" the full version of Photoshop know they need it. If you have to ask, save your money and get PS Elements. As already mentioned, it does almost everything 90% of photographers actually need/use in an image editing program.

That said, why not try saving ALL your money and downloading GIMP for free. It may not be as sexy as PS but it seems to do almost everything just about as well.

No disrepect intended, but I don't buy this reasoning. It's common for someone to not be familiar with the capabilities of a particular program if they haven't yet been exposed to it, and it's entirely possible that it may have features that they would use consistently if available.

Plus, as people move forward and improve, it's not uncommon that starting with the better program would actually save them time and money in the long run lest they "go cheap" and find out within a month or two that the program they settled for really doesn't suit all their needs. They may need a little knowledge to help them assess their needs vs options, hence the questions.

I don't know anyone who needs all the features in CS3, unless you're a surgeon who dabbles in 3D imaging on your breaks.

SlowBlink wrote in post #4926381
I don't know anyone who needs all the features in CS3, unless you're a surgeon who dabbles in 3D imaging on your breaks.

I'm not sure what your point is. What you say is very true of course, CS3 is a VERY comprehensive piece of software, with a huge selection of tools making it capable of many, many different tasks.

However, just because nobody needs ALL the features, it doesn't follow that they don't need SOME of the features and can't get them anywhere else.

I use CS2 and it fulfills all my needs, in conjunction with lightroom. I haven't found any other piece of image editing software that can do everything I want. The fact that it can do more besides is irrelevant.

I agree with you in principle. Learning is usually best accomplished in a controlled environment beginning with the basics. Personally, I would never recommend a newbie drop $700 on Photoshop. Start with Elements or freeware, learn to use it to the max. When you start buming your head into limitations, then upgrade when there is a real need - not just the possibility of usage someday.

klynam wrote in post #4926495
I agree with you in principle. Learning is usually best accomplished in a controlled environment beginning with the basics. Personally, I would never recommend a newbie drop $700 on Photoshop. Start with Elements or freeware, learn to use it to the max. When you start buming your head into limitations, then upgrade when there is a real need - not just the possibility of usage someday.

You make a good point. I have had things that I've gotten excited about, and a large initial investment would have been a waste since my excitement eventually waned.

On the other hand, I would have saved myself alot of money and frustration had I bought the best lenses at the beginning rather than go through a serious of upgrades that proved more costly in the end. Of course, that is purely hindsight rearing it's ugly head.

I think there is an upgrade deal through the end of February... upgrade Elements 3,4,or5 to CS3 for $299... Assuming $100 (street price cheaper) for Elements, that means $399 for CS3!!!

The typical upgrade from elements is $549... + est. $100 for Elements = $649... which happens to be the standard price for CS3.

Either way, too expensive for me... but shows you don't lose ANYTHING by starting with Elements... in fact, it could be cheaper if you wait for deals like that before upgrading (or get Elements for $50 like I did at Costco).

I second GIMP. By any chance, are you a student?

If you are eligible you can get a ton of good deals here:

http://www.campustech.​com …ia.html?int_sou​rce=secnav

And you can tell if you are eligible here:

http://www.studentclea​ringhouse.org …_ParticipatingS​chools.asp

I'll third GIMP also. I used GIMP for a couple years before moving to CS3. Save your money and go for CS3 or CS4 when you have more money.

sandpiper wrote in post #4926450
I'm not sure what your point is. What you say is very true of course, CS3 is a VERY comprehensive piece of software, with a huge selection of tools making it capable of many, many different tasks.

However, just because nobody needs ALL the features, it doesn't follow that they don't need SOME of the features and can't get them anywhere else.

I use CS2 and it fulfills all my needs, in conjunction with lightroom. I haven't found any other piece of image editing software that can do everything I want. The fact that it can do more besides is irrelevant.

Sorry, next time I make a joke I'll check with you first. Did I say you have to use all the features? Too much coffee? See the smiley?

Gimp would probably be the better choice unless it has 16bit or raw issues which I doubt. Haven't used it in years.

Wow!!!
You guys are phenominal! Great info. Sorry I haven't responded but I just shot about 1500 pics at a 4th, 5th, 6th grade basketball tourney. Two days to go.
Sounds like for me the best option is to download gimp, see if it will do the job. Start looking for a deal on PSE and then upgrade to cs3 when the time is right.
Photoguy and Klynam, you guys are getting exactly what i'm saying. Thanks to you and everyone else!!!
Dave
www.cspnphoto.com

davidcrebelxt wrote in post #4927563
I think there is an upgrade deal through the end of February... upgrade Elements 3,4,or5 to CS3 for $299... Assuming $100 (street price cheaper) for Elements, that means $399 for CS3!!!

The typical upgrade from elements is $549... + est. $100 for Elements = $649... which happens to be the standard price for CS3.

Do you have a link for this? I just looked on the Adobe site, and unless they're hiding it, I see only the $549 upgrade option from Elements.

Woolburr wrote in post #4924609
Elements can do all the basic functions of photo editing...cropping, resizing, curves and levels, correcting white balance issues, hue and saturation adjustments, filters and actions...essentially anything that 95% of photographers need. Photoshop is several level above that....and has a variety of features and automations that allow more complex editing and streamlined workflows. Elements is a whole lot easier on the wallet when you first start out and it still gives you some killer options.

Elements has curves? I have PSE4 and it doesn't. Did they add curves to v5 or v6?

photoguy6405 wrote in post #4930254
Do you have a link for this? I just looked on the Adobe site, and unless they're hiding it, I see only the $549 upgrade option from Elements.

Here's a quote from another forum... I've seen it on a few now... I can't guarantee is legitimacy since I didn't order and am not in the market for CS3, but appears that you must order by phone from Adobe: [The phone number in the quote is the same as posted at Adobe.com... so it doesn't appear to be a redirection scam, at least.]