Serif PhotoPlus X4

Usability

PhotoPlus X4's interface may not be the easiest to use, but its comprehensive built-in help system mitigates the difficulty. Plenty of tutorials are included, which cover everything from basic subjects like cropping photographs and saving files to more advanced fare like working with layers and file format conversion.

Importing Images

Serif PhotoPlus X4 makes importing pictures from your digital camera feel absolutely effortless. The program also allows you to import screencaps and digital scans, providing you the chance to work on virtually any kind of digital input.

Photo Editing

Serif PhotoPlus X4 Editing software includes general editing tools that remove blemishes, resize photos and enhance colors and sharpness. Not only does this software perform these functions well but it also has an automatic level and contrast adjustment if you are not interested in tackling the world of hues, saturation, gamma and channels. If you do not know what these terms mean, then the automatic feature is definitely for you, at least when you first start using the program. Play with the multitude of adjustment options that PhotoPlus 4 offers to learn more about the clone tool that easily removes pesky parts of images like logos or inappropriate text in the background. Tinker with 48 bit images and edit these relatively bland renderings into works of art. Do not let the intricate toolbar intimidate you as the Quick Fix Studio opens up in one neat little window and has most of the common tools used for photo projects. View changes in real time so that if you dislike what you see, you are easily able to hit the cancel button and start over.

Photo Sharing

Use Serif PhotoPlus X4 sharing as a flexible method of editing photos. This software is an excellent program for a beginner and still has a few advanced features for truly professional looking projects. Use color balance editing, path creation, saturation, hue and channel mixer to turn your photos into works of art. With Quick Fix Studio ready to use in one neat window, changes are viewed in real time and easy to cancel if they do not turn out just right.

Output Capabilities

PhotoPlus X4 allows you to export your photos to all of the most popular export formats, including JPEG and PDF. The Export Optimizer tool allows you to create the most efficient image according to your specific needs, quickly and painlessly.

Organization

In order to provide the best possible organization, PhotoPlus X4 comes standard with a complete second program dedicated strictly to making your photo projects easier to manage. Called AlbumPlus SE Pro, this program serves as an automatic organizer that works as you download, organizing your files according to your pre-determined settings.

Support

There are several very useful help features with the Serif PhotoPlus X4. In addition to a very detailed user guide, the software comes with PDF tutorial files that are printable and easy to follow. PhotoPlus X4 also has a handy in-program feature that places a small tab on screen to provide instant access to sortable support issues. For more extensive support needs, access their staff-monitored forums or contact their dedicated customer support.