ArcSoft bills PhotoImpression 3.0 as “the photo-editing program for everyone.” While Adobe Photoshop power users won’t rush to dump their application of choice, PhotoImpression may well be the photo-editing program for everyone else.
This entry-level image editor lets you add text, retouch photos using an arsenal of powerful but unintimidating tools, and choose from among 25 special effects to enhance your images. Best of all, PhotoImpression’s multiple undos and Photoshop-like layers give you enormous flexibility as you work.
ArcSoft packs a lot of fun extras into PhotoImpression-you can choose from an assortment of frames to finish off your images, and you can turn images into printable calendars and greeting cards. The PhotoFantasies feature shows you how the subject of your photo would look as a rock star or a prima ballerina. And a built-in link to PhotoIsland, ArcSoft’s free photo-sharing Web site, lets you share your masterpiece with the world.
About Face: Though decidedly un-Mac-like, PhotoImpression’s interface is well organized.