Which PS is best?

Alright, first off, I have never used Photo Shop, so I know absolutely nothing about it. I did a search on PS, and it's somewhat overwhelming with all the versions, etc.. Is there a freeware version within all the PS programs to get an idea of what it's like? Thanks for any info.

There is photoshop Elements - an "executive" version, Photoshop and Photoshop Extended. Extended has some added on features that interest scientist and engineers more (but ones I find useful) You can download a trial version of photoshop from Adobe it will work for 30 days. The creative suite packages are different mixes of programs depending upon other interests like video or web development.

Thanks for the information. I will check it out. The 30 day download sounds cool- Thats enough time to check it out I would think...but after 30 days, I would probably have to have it. Guess thats the idea though, eh?

If you don't use 3D then the standard Ps is enough. However if just starting out Elements does most things pretty well and doesn't cost a fortune!

If you are unsure if you need it, CS4 is probably too much of a package for you IMHO.

Go for the trial of PS Elements and see how you get on.

Photoshop, the full versions, have learning curves calculated in years of part time fiddling around.
Lightroom and/or Elements would be a better jumping off place, as what you learn in them will carry on to PS, should you ever want to go that route. They all have 30-day trials.

If you qualify, the best prices are at www.academicsuperstore​.com