Serif PhotoPlus SE is Serif's entry into the free pixel-based image editing segment of the graphics software market. This is a slightly cut-down version of Serif's paid for PhotoPlus image editor with a number of tools disabled and a more restricted feature set to encourage users to upgrade to the paid version. Beginners and more experienced users maybe interested in delving deeper into what PhotoPlus SE offers.
This overview of PhotoPlus SE will give you taste of what's on offer, but for a more in-depth look at the software, you can read our full review of this free pixel-based image editor.
Highlights of PhotoPlus SE
PhotoPlus SE has a logical and well-presented user interface which is quite intuitive to use. Users with experience of using Adobe Photoshop will appreciate some of the similarities which suggest that those behind the design of this pixel-based image editor were in some ways inspired by Adobe's seminal image editor.
Some of the key features of PhotoPlus SE include:
- Clear and intuitive interface
- Slide out palette with 'How To' information
- Red Eye Tool
- Comprehensive selection of layer blending modes
- Layer masks for non-destructive editing
- Extensive selection of brushes
- Strong set of layer effects
- Can be used to produce a complete design
GIMP, the open source image editor, is widely seen as the king the of the free pixel-based image editors, but the interface of floating palettes is regularly the target of criticism. In this respect, PhotoPlus SE may win some converts. Native layer effects may also be popular, though GIMP users can add this functionality to a degree using plug-ins.
Why Use PhotoPlus SE?
PhotoPlus SE may be suitable for users wishing to achieve a number of different results, though it should be noted that the restrictions Serif have placed on this free version of their pixel-based image editor can make it a compromise in some respects.
Photographers or anyone wishing to make the most of their photos could use PhotoPlus SE to enhance and improve their favorite pictures. The application's filter effects, layer effects and wide selection of brushes offer a good arsenal of tools for users wishing to get a bit more creative and artistic with their images. It could also be used for producing complete graphic design jobs, though it should be noted that the sparsity of text editing controls places some limitations on the software in this aspect.
The Limitations of PhotoPlus SE
There are a number of points that I feel do detract from the overall impression of PhotoPlus SE and one of the first I noticed was the lack of keyboard shortcuts, though that may not worry many users.
Rather more fundamental is the disabling of several key image adjustment tools, including Curves and Levels, which markedly undermines the effectiveness of the application in daily use for image enhancement. Photographers are further sold short by the removal of the Dodge and Burn tools from this edition of PhotoPlus.
Those familiar with GIMP and, indeed, Photoshop will likely also be saddened by the lack of a plug-ins system, which means there won't be any chance of adding further functionality and tools.
System Requirements
Serif's site only lists Windows XP or Vista under requirements. I've used the software on an average spec laptop with 2GB RAM and found it generally responsive, though saving files can take a little while on occasions.
Support and Training
Powerful applications like PhotoPlus SE can have a steep learning curve, but the interface takes this into account with a helpful slide out How To palette that offers easy to understand advice and tips on how to enhance photos and apply creative effects. There are also further tutorials available that can be accessed through the Help menu.
PhotoPlus SE can be downloaded from the Free Serif Software website.