This book explains the science behind the art of PhotoDeluxe so you can use the program to your fullest advantage. PhotoDeluxe 4 runs on Windows NT 4, Windows 98, and Windows 95. This book focuses on Windows 98 – if you're running Windows 95 or NT, you may find a few areas where things work differently than described, but the majority of information is absolutely the same no matter what flavor of Windows you fed your computer. Finally, if you're wondering what level of digital-imaging experience you need to understand this book, the answer is none. It's designed for those who are at the beginner or intermediate level when it comes to image editing.
In simple, easy-to-read language, Adobe PhotoDeluxe 4 For Dummies helps you wrap your brain around some perplexing subjects, including:
Beyond that, you gain the information you need to venture past the program's surface level and explore its considerable hidden talents. Almost obscured by the consumer-friendly PhotoDeluxe interface lurk some very powerful image-editing tools – the kind that you may expect to find only in professional (read: expensive) graphics software. This book shows you how to exploit these tools and even how to work around some built-in limitations to get a bit more flexibility than the program's designers likely intended.
Adobe PhotoDeluxe 4 For Dummies leads you safely along the sometimes-rocky image-editing trail, gets you out of jams when necessary, and even offers you some entertainment along the way. In short, it's the perfect companion for your PhotoDeluxe journey.
Part one of the book presents the basics of editing pixel-based images, navigating the PhotoDeluxe interface, and saving and printing files. Part two moves through the wide variety of image-editing tools available that will allow you to manipulate the brightness and contrast controls, color options, and canvas size. You will also find instructions on adding borders and shadows; fixing red-eye syndrome; changing an image's focus; and removing dust, noise, and patterns. The third section teaches you how to use the painting, layers, and type tools; play around with color; and work through special projects such as creating wallpaper and sending images via e-mail. The final section of Adobe PhotoDeluxe for Dummies covers fun effects and troubleshooting problems, shortcuts, and online resources.
The book's contents are applicable to versions 2 and 3 of PhotoDeluxe, including the business edition, for both Windows and Mac platforms. The accompanying CD-ROM has trial and shareware versions of image cataloging and management tools, panorama software, puzzle makers, plug-ins, and Web-authoring tools. --Kathleen Caster