Photo Software Trials

Have you ever purchased some software and then decided it just wasn't what you wanted? A reader contacted me recently about some software that he tried and didn't care for (he found the learning curve too steep) and he mentioned another product that worked better for him. Luckily for him, he had downloaded trials of both programs before buying, so he wasn't stuck with the program that he didn’t want. Most digital photo software publishers let you try before you buy; you usually get 15-30 days from the time you first use the software to play with it and see if it meets your needs.

You might want to download a couple of software program trials like my reader did, and try them out and compare features and ease-of-use for yourself. My personal favorites are Adobe Photoshop Elements, ACDsee Photo Editor and Corel Paint Shop Pro X2. However, everyone is looking for something different; what might be a great program for one user may be too complicated or offer too many features for someone who only wants basic cropping, red-eye removal and captioning functions.

Here is a list of trials available for top photo software programs:

Adobe Photoshop Elements
ACDSee 10 Photo Manager
ACDSee 10 Photo Manager
Corel Paint Shop Pro Photo X2

No Cost Software

You can also get a lot of pretty decent no-cost software programs. These are more basic, so don't expect advanced tools or functions like layers or curves. However, you will get pretty good photo organizing and sharing features. For example, Kodak Easyshare Gallery, Snapfish, Shutterfly and Photoworks, among others, offer free photo editing and organizing software. All you have to do is become a member and you can download their software. There is no charge to join and nothing to buy. So if you are looking for some basic software to help you enhance and manage your photos, you may want to check them out.

Photo Tip: Taking Pet Pictures

I just had some friends visiting from out of town and they fell in love with my dog Molly. They wanted to take pictures of her, and ham that she is, she sat and posed for them. She seems to understand what taking photos is all about -- or she just enjoyed the attention! Not all dogs, cats, birds or hamsters are that cooperative, though. Here's what you can do to make your pet photos special:

Be patient

Limit your photo-taking to a few minutes and keep your voice level and calm.

Toys and Treats

Toys and treats can go along way in keeping your pet happy and in place while you snap away.

Shoot at eye level

Getting down on your pet's eye level and zooming in makes for more intimate shots.

Take Action Shots

Use your pet's love of running and playing to your advantage. Engaging him in activity will distract him from the camera and allow him to do what comes naturally. This will make you photos more interesting and less contrived.

Mother’s Day Photo Gift Ideas

Mother’s Day is May 11. I used to have a hard time coming up with with something inexpensive and original for Mother’s Day. I want to get something my mom will actually like and use. Last year I made her a Photo Book and she loved it; I'm going to make her another one this year. Photo books are on sale at Kodak Gallery and Shutterfly, and you can get free shipping at Kodak and Snapfish. Another idea is a photo collage of your/her favorite pics. (Snapfish has 30% off photo collages). Get more info on discounts below.

Have a great weekend.

Valerie
www.digitalphotos101.com
How to get the best from your digital camera

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