Digital Imaging Software: Adobe

• 10/01/02

Adobe offers three digital imaging software titles: Premiere 6.5, AlterCast and Photoshop 7.0. Premiere 6.5 is the latest version of the company's digital video editing program that allows users to create broadcast-quality video productions using extensive real-time previewing features, including titles, transitions and effects. The Title Designer lets users create sophisticated title sequences, while the updated SmartSound Quicktracks let users create royalty-free custom-length soundtracks. The software also comes with extensive hardware support, so users can connect to a wide range of video hardware from Sony DVCAM gear to third-party capture cards. And with its flexible export options, images can be delivered through virtually any medium.

AlterCast automates the production process by dynamically changing data-driven images. To speed common production tasks, AlterCast automatically generates every file version needed whenever a new image is created. The software can deliver almost any image in any common format to most online or print devices. Image modifications and enhancements are made possible by putting Adobe digital imaging and font technology in an enterprise-class server with industry-standard interfaces. With AlterCast, users can customize content from resizing and reformatting images in bulk to modifying images programmatically. The program also supports multiple languages and can be used to generate data-intensive graphs dynamically.

The latest version of Photoshop delivers a comprehensive toolset that helps users meet any creative or production challenge. The new Healing Brush easily removes dust, scratches, blemishes and wrinkles from images, while automatically preserving shading, lighting, texture and other attributes. The new File Browser allows users to locate, organize and visually manage images as well as view EXIF information from digital cameras, including data capture, exposure settings and associated metadata. Photoshop's new painting engine lets users create custom brush presets, simulate techniques, such as pastels and charcoal, and add special effects, such as grass and leaves. In addition, the new Pattern Maker plug-in creates patterns, such as rocks and sand; while an enhanced Liquify plug-in provides greater control over image warping with zoom, pan and multiple undo capabilities. Adobe, San Jose, CA, (800) 833, 6687, www.adobe.com.

This article originally appeared in the 10/01/2002 issue of THE Journal.