I have used Paint Shop Pro since about version 8, and I have upgraded to almost every other version update since then.  I was always recommended PSP from many members of the skinning community, and even today I know many popular skinners who use this.  Paint Shop Pro has come a long way since I first started using it, and even though it has moved more towards use with photography, I found it’s still a great graphics tool that is perfect for making skins and themes.  Best of all, it’s a great alternative to other higher-end imaging software which costs much, much more. 

The first thing I notice when opening Paint Shop Pro Photo X2 is it’s sporty a sleek new graphite theme, which can be disabled if you rather have the previous style.  The graphite theme works well and gives a darker look to the whole application, which at least to me, makes working on graphics easier on the eyes.  If you are new to Paint Shop Pro, or just need some help in some areas, there is a Learning Center docked to the left side which guides you through the process of several techniques like making photo collages, adding effects, adjusting images, etc.  Of course you can configure the interface to your liking, but I found the default quite suitable for my needs.  There is also an image browsing window where you can easier organize, find, and edit images stored on your computer.

All the tools you would ever need to either create graphics for skinning, or for adjusting photographs, are right here.  I was happy to see one of my favorite tools, the picture tubes, are still there.  There is such a wide variety of settings and tools available that I could write all day about, but take my word for it, it has what you need.  On the photography side, there are several “one-step” fixes for various common corrections in photos.  There is also a new Express Lab which can batch edit several files or folders at once with actions like crop, resize, etc.

Some other new features are the HDR Photo Merge which combines two or more images and corrects the contrast automatically.  Also new is the addition of layer styles and watermark support, both of which should be welcomed to both beginner and seasoned professionals.  The Black & White conversion tool has also been enhanced along with the Makeover tools which are essential for fixing any impurities in images.

While I was once concerned that Paint Shop Pro would only be useful to photographers, I have now realize that it’s only added to the graphics experience.  Whether you are a photographer, graphic designer, or skinner, Paint Shop Pro Photo X2 has all the features necessary to bring your creativity to life. 

Corel Paint Shop Pro Photo X2 is now available from the Impulse Store for just $79.99.