Elements 4 Vs CS 2

Hi, I have a question concerning digital image processing. I realize that CS 2 is a much more detailed and complex program than Elements 4 and that E 4 is a stripped down version of CS 2. However will E 4 do the majority of processing features that CS 2 will or will it only do 80%, 70%, 60% or what. I am pretty new to digital processing and I see that it will take time and practice to begin to comprehend the majority of this, however is E 4 worth buying or just stay with CS 2. I guess the main reason I am asking is because I don't want to spend $650 on a program and not ever use just 50% of it. I hope I didn't ramble and I look forward to any responses.

Larry

I've no experience of CS2, and currently use PSE3, but one obvious difference is scripting (where you can get CS2 to do several things in sequence). The other main thing that I've noticed people mentioning is curves which is not available in Elements. This said though, you can download extra tools (such as curves) for Elements anyway.

I'm happy enough using Elements, and haven't yet found a killer reason to shell out significantly more cash, and indeed, there are piles of features in Elements that I've never used yet either.

I don't believe that elements can handle CA correction.

John,

Where do you download these "extra tools" at?

In the off chance that you have recently purchased a Canon camera that came bundled with Adobe Photo Elements, there is a way to upgrade to CS2 without shelling out $600.

Give them a call. They'll ask for the serial number of the bundled software and offer the upgrade for $300.

Not exactly cheap either but at least it's not $650 fer chrissakes.

Cheers

I use the Earthbound Light tools: http://www.earthboundl​ight.com …shop-elements-curves.html, but there are other tools too. Here's a link to Grant's Tools for example: http://www.cavesofice.​org …hallenge/Tools/​index.html

According to every review I've read, Elements will do most of what most amateur photographers will want to do. If your camera came with any version of Elements, you can probably upgrade to CS2 for $299.

Try this test download. I have CS2 & Elements 3 and this program in my opinion does a better job of the basics after you have converted raw from any conversion program. I personally use BB.

http://www.pictocolor.​com/Register_demo.html

Jerry