The Bottom Line
Although some of the filters perform better than others, Image Doctor is a useful set of four filters which can help you overcome a number of image imperfections.
Pros
- Excellent documentation.
- Clear, easy-to-use interface.
Cons
- Processing can be slow.
Description
- Four image retouching filters for Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, Fireworks, and other image editors.
- Smart Fill: Removes large objects from complex backgrounds by filling the area with pattern.
- Scratch Remover: Removes long, narrow defects such as scratches, tears, creases, and wrinkles.
- Spot Lifter: Removes spots and blemishes, seamlessly blending them in with the surrounding area.
- JPEG Repair: Diminishes artifacts from over-compressed JPEG. Repairs selections or entire images.
- Offers selection-based repair, unlimited undo/redo, and Photoshop-style keyboard shortcuts.
- UI features large previews, before/after toggle, convenient filter switching, and on-screen tips.
- Includes printed User Manual with tutorials and tips. Also provided in PDF and HTML format.
- Compatible with Macintosh System 9.0 or later; OS X 10.1 or later and Windows 98/ME/2000/XP.
Guide Review - Alien Skin Image Doctor
This is the first set of image correction filters from the creators of several highly popular effects plug-ins. As with all Alien Skin products, it is well-documented and easy to use. I found the Spot Lifter the most valuable of the filters. It removed blemishes such as skin imperfections, stains, and shadows with incredible ease and astounding quality. Smart Fill did a good job of removing large objects, but must be used in several steps if the background contains varied textures. JPEG Repair worked fairly well to improve images severely damaged by overcompression, but it can't bring back what's already lost and may further reduce fine detail. Scratch Remover was much too slow and finicky to be more useful than cloning or other methods.
