PhotoCaster 3, an Xtra for Macromedia Director from Media Lab, is finally available to Mac OS X users as of version 3.0. The Xtra offers a way to streamline the adaptation of Photoshop graphics for animations, online games, and business presentations with Director.
The Mac OS X version of PhotoCaster 3 now supports Photoshop layer sets and enhanced layer fx and text support. Its interface has been redesigned to better match Mac OS X’s Aqua look. Layer effects (Photoshop 5) and layer styles (Photoshop 6) are supported, and PhotoCaster 3 now handles Photoshop effects such as drop shadows.
All color options are now selectable regardless of monitor color depth. PhotoCaster 3 can import graphics in 8-, 16- or 24-bit mode with any custom palette whatever the display settings of your monitor. Improvements to the color depth conversion system includes better 16-bit import quality and dithering options for 8- and 16-bit import, according to Media Lab.
PhotoCaster 3.0 supports Mac OS X, Director MX, Photoshop 3 or higher, or Mac OS 7.6.1-9.x, Director 5 or higher, and Photoshop 3 or greater. It works with files from Adobe Photoshop 3-6 and LE or any application that can save in layered Photoshop .PSD format. The cost is US$199. There’s a variety of crossgrade pricing offers; see the Media Lab site for details.