Nik Software

[huga]

So Google have bought Nik Software and it's now only $150! So good. I will be buying it shortly.

When I looked at it a while ago, it was around $500.

You can download a 15 day trial and have a play :) It works with LR and PS (I use it in PS).

http://www.niksoftware.com/nikcollection/usa/intro.html

[CrazyCresties]

Cool, thanks for the heads up :) I'll need to read a bit more about it, but does it allows for finer editing in LR, or do you export to Nik from LR?

[huga]

I honestly don't know how it works with LR, because I use it in PS (because it can be used with layer masks, so more control). But it's a plug-in, so I use it within PS - it comes under the filters menu.

I've actually been using the trial again because I am finalising my QPPA entries and it is great for getting that tonal contrasty look that the judges love. It's very polished. The Silver Efex part is awesome for B&Ws and Dfine is great for noise reduction.

This is one of last years entries, but it shows the look I am talking about:

This one does too:

[Are You Serious Jo]

I really love the effects for mono that I've seen, so it's ok to use that for comp entries? I wasn't sure so haven't pursued it so far.

[huga]

Yeah, you can edit anyway you like, within the rules (eg some categories like Doco only allow really basic editing - no cloning or composites). Hell, there are even businesses that provide awards editing as a service.

[Are You Serious Jo]

So the line is editing, as long as you don't use actual elements that are not your own such as textures others have made? I don't want to inadvertently do anything I shouldn't and I REALLY love the platinum nik effects on mono landscapes, I could play around with swatches for years and never get that right. Now I just have to see if it will actually download on my crappy wireless connection. Thanks!

[huga]

Yes, exactly. Well, for APPA anyway. If you use textures, they have to be ones you've created yourself etc.

One photographer who was always a big advocate of Nik was Kelly Munce (who unfortunately has closed her doors). She has some stunning work.