With the exception of the lack of support for prepress (z. B. for the color model CMYK) for files with 16-bit color depth and for automating the processing means internally developed scripts from which professional rather for (semi) users are interesting, then PSE is still worth a recommendation. Hardly a machining wish remains unfulfilled, many wizards simplify even beginners, probably represent the main target group for the Adobe software, life considerably. The available image processing tools are not only numerous, but also work with Photoshop's own professional precision and also can be useful to adapt to the individual needs.
And what of PSE 11 does not bring home, can often be retrofitted with free or commercially available plug-ins. Particularly helpful is the commercial extension "Elements +" the PSE has been found in my practice, adds much more to Curves, layer masks, paths.
In addition, the application is reasonably fast and gets even with larger files (TIFF with multiple levels to 180 MB tested) is not out of balance. So apart from a few minor Mäkeleien a round thing when one looks at PSE 11 as a standalone program. Add to this that even PSD files can be opened from the "big brother" Photoshop CS, the data exchange itself "with the pros" is thus given.
But it remains from a long-standing user's perspective, more and more a sense of bitterness. On the one hand the application as an update is not significantly cheaper than a new full version. Here loyalty is hardly rewarded. Secondly, I wonder really since version 7, which actually are the progress that a new purchase was, justify update or full version at all. Comparing the features in Photoshop Elements 7 Been on board with those that exist in PSE 11, so you will actually find nothing that could justify an update rate of more than 70 euros.
However, there is unfortunately a reason for (forced) update, and is so bad that it flush of anger drives me in the face: Adobe makes simply its latest versions of the import filter for RAW files (Adobe Camera Raw, ACR) only compatible with the current version of PS. Who has thus bought in the last two years a current DSLR, z. B. with PSE 9 can not import raw data from the camera more to PSE because, although Adobe provides the appropriate filter, this only with PSE 10 or 11 runs. This "dirty trick" Adobe thus ensures more revenue with those who do not want to renounce the use of the RAW format of their fairly new DSLR, but that do not want to buy a new program. The comparison suggests that customers are forced here, a cow to buy, even though they really want to drink a glass of milk.
Conclusion: PSE 11 as a single application would get me a good four stars for brisk, precise work and comprehensive options. For Adobe's customer unfriendly update and RAW import filter policy and the lack of real progress in program compared to the previous versions 7 and 9 I draw from these four stars, however, from a again. So that makes three stars, bringing the product m. E. is fairly valued.
