PSE vs PSCS3

[Deb7456]

Is there a thread or a sticky somewhere comparing the two?

I am a total newbie to digital scrapbooking. I've downloaded the trial version of PSE for Mac. I don't want to download the CS3 trial for a couple more weeks b/c PSE is slowing things down already (but tolerably).

The price difference is HUGE ($70 vs. $600)!

Yesterday I spent almost the entire day learning PSE and putting together a 2-page spread. I was frustrated with blending my pictures into the background. But I don't know how much of this is just being new at it, and how much is a limitation of the software.

So - I guess my question is: For those who used PSE and upgraded, what were the features that you found most helpful in CS3 that weren't available in PSE?

Again, if there's already a thread about this, please point me in the right direction. I browsed quickly through the sticky on this, but a lot of it covered installation questions. Thanks so much!

[JenniferG]

there are TONS of things that are on CS3 that aren't on PSE. I downloaded the trial of CD3 and found that its has a lot of new gadgets...but I'm not willing to spend the money on it and have to learn it all over again. I've had my PSE for over a year and I like it just fine. If you're willing to spend the money, CS3 might make sense to you to just go ahead and learn all the intricate details...there are classes and tutorials on it. Maybe when I've jumpstarted my scrap 4 hire business, I'll invest in CS4...or whichever version is the newest at the time...

[diturpin]

I started out on PSE3 and then upgraded to PSE5 before taking the plunge to CS3. I was able to get CS3 on a special sale from Adobe that cut the cost almost in half. I found that starting out on PSE let me learn the basics and find out if I really wanted some of the big features that CS3 offers. I probably use Masks more than any other feature that is not on elements (although there are masks on elements if you know how to use them) and then creating my own actions for certain routine things (sharpening photos, etc.) If money is a big factor, I would definately say that PSE offers more than enough features to get you started and keep you happy for several years. There is a big learning curve though and it takes some time to figure everything out. But the learning curve on CS is even larger. I used PSE and took classes here at DSU and developed my scrapping skills before taking the big plunge. And I would have never taken it at $600 - that would have been more than I personally could have justified.

[carlalee]

Something to consider about the cost. Even if you decide you want the full blown Photoshop (CS4 at this point), I would still look at two things. First - buy PSE, automatically you will qualify for the upgrade price to CS4. This is still right around $599. However, once or twice a year Adobe offers the upgrade to Photoshop price of $299. If you do this you could be scrapping and learning the ropes until that offer comes around. The second thing to consider is, do you want to get a Wacom graphics tablet? If you do, they come with PSE (usually a version or two down from the current) bundled with the software. Again - you'd qualify for the upgrade price. Hope this info helps! -c-

[Robin E.]

You CAN blend, and blend well with PSE. Here is one I recently did.
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/5293/thumbs/Me47.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=279809&ppuser=19727)
Me (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=279809&cat=500&ppuser=19727)

Okay, that probably isn't a great example, because I am not really good at blending yet. However, I am taking a class in November (DSU 221, Montage for PSE and PS) where I will learn to be better at it. I KNOW there are better examples of excellent blending with PSE. Let me see if I can some.

How about Jennifer's (cj672005).
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/6173/thumbs/Joined.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=216806)
Joined In Marriage (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=216806)

Or, Chirstina's (mammabyrd2003).
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/3684/thumbs/Trendsetter-Round-13.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=254139&ppuser=59380)
Josh Rocks Round 1 (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=254139&cat=500&ppuser=59380)

Or, yvspeck's
http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/data/5293/thumbs/Springcreek-Moto.jpg (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=234881&ppuser=16608)
Springcreek Moto (http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/forum/../gallery/showphoto.php?photo=234881&cat=500&ppuser=16608)

I'm sure there are others. Basically, I have come to the conclusion that I won't need PSCS unless for some reason I decide to start designing and wanting to make my own page kits and other products professionally (I can make lots of things with PSE, I haven't even begun to tap into that). Personally, I'd rather save my $600 for a great camera.

[Deb7456]

Thanks for the examples Robin! Those are very helpful.

I'll have to ask DH what he wants to do about purchasing PSE or PSCS3. He usually wants to buy the best out there, but $600 is a bit much! He has already said he'd get us a large-format printer so I can do the 12x12 pages, so I think he might be relieved if I can get by with PSE.

Also - since Diane mentioned getting I discount, I checked to see what's out there. DH may be reclassified as "faculty" in the next couple months (he may even count now), so it's possible we could get the student/faculty discount. Until then, I can use the PSE trial for October and the PSCS3 trial for November!

[diturpin]

Also - since Diane mentioned getting I discount, I checked to see what's out there. DH may be reclassified as "faculty" in the next couple months (he may even count now), so it's possible we could get the student/faculty discount. Until then, I can use the PSE trial for October and the PSCS3 trial for November!

Be sure and register with Adobe and give them a email that you check. That is how the discount came to me and it was better than the student/faculty discount if I am remembering correctly.

[shazzt]

I recently upgraded from PSE6 to CS3 mainly for the greater flexibility it gave me with editing photos which I was getting more into (and I managed to get a very cheap deal) but for scrapbooking I found PSE was great. I used it for more than 4 years and was more than happy with it. You can get a couple of free plug-ins that give you better masking (Grants Tools) and access to curves (Smartcurve) that give it even more power. If you have the money to spend (or can get a very good deal), then why not get CS3 (or CS4!!) but if you don't, then PSE will give you plenty of room to grow. There are plenty of users here that can help you get started :)

[Deb7456]

You can get a couple of free plug-ins that give you better masking (Grants Tools) and access to curves (Smartcurve) that give it even more power.

Great! I'll look these up. I was wondering about drawing arcs or boxes - couldn't seem to find it yet. I suppose that would limit curved text, too. :confused:

[shazzt]

You can't do text on a path (or in a shape) in PSE like you can in CS3. You can warp or bend your text and you can use shaped text layers that have been created in Photoshop. Lauren has [yrl=http://store.digitalscrapbookplace.com/index.php?main_page=advanced_search_result&search_in_description=1&-----=600b1f1cdc6e386c9ff409d7d55b31f9&keyword=text+path]some in the store[/url]. Curves is a plugin for enhancing your photos - took me ages to get my head around it but it is pretty cool. You can get the smartcurve filter here (http://free.pages.at/easyfilter/curves.html). PSE6 has some basic curves adjustments built in but the smartcurve filter works more like the one in Photoshop. Grants Tools, which include masks are here (http://www.cavesofice.org/~grant/Challenge/Tools/Files.html).

[Leea]

The offer from Adobe that comes out every so often in e-mails...is it for the full version of Photoshop? I get confused about what kind of Adobe Photoshop is available...professional, extended, etc?
If I upgrade from PSE to Photoshop, I want to be able (when I learn how) to use the actions I've seen online for creating digital elements (I've found some actions online that I like that are called interactive, not sure what that means) and also to write actions...do all versions of Photoshop (professional, extended, PS3, PS4...don't know how many there are) run and write actions the same as each other or is one better with actions?
Thanks :)
Leea

[diturpin]

The offer from Adobe that comes out every so often in e-mails...is it for the full version of Photoshop? I get confused about what kind of Adobe Photoshop is available...professional, extended, etc?
If I upgrade from PSE to Photoshop, I want to be able (when I learn how) to use the actions I've seen online for creating digital elements (I've found some actions online that I like that are called interactive, not sure what that means) and also to write actions...do all versions of Photoshop (professional, extended, PS3, PS4...don't know how many there are) run and write actions the same as each other or is one better with actions?
Thanks :)
Leea

Leea, your really testing the old grey matter here but if memory serves me correctly, they offered PSCS3 and PSCS3 Extended in the email offer I received. Extended was more $$ but I don't remember how much. Extended I believe is more for those folks creating 3D graphics for video games (someone correct me if I am wrong, but that was my impression). PSCS3 (3 being the version) is what I have and it runs actions and lets you save your own. I would assume that carries over to Extended. I don't know what interactive actions are so someone else will have to answer that one. HTH.

[Leea]

Thanks for the reply :)

If I'm understanding correctly...

there's Photoshop Elements in various versions up to PSE7
there's Photoshop...up to Photoshop 7
then there PSCS...up to PSCS4

this is confusing, there seems to be several types?

1. Does Photoshop (up to 7) relate to PSCS? earlier version/different version/is it somewhere between PSE and PSCS?
Does Photoshop 7 run and write actions?

2. Where can I find info about the types of Photoshop? I looked at the Adobe site and all I can find is PSCS4, so PSCS3 isn't available anymore or is it?

3. When a new version of PSE comes out, sounds like the previous version goes on sale in stores (not sure about online)...right? So does the current version of PSCS go on sale when there's a new version coming out?

Thanks :)

[diturpin]

1. Does Photoshop (up to 7) relate to PSCS? earlier version/different version/is it somewhere between PSE and PSCS? YES, PHOTOSHOP IS AN EARLIER VERSION OF PSCS. PSE IS A SCALED DOWN LESS EXPENSIVE VERSION AIMED AT CASUAL PHOTOGRAPHERS; PSCS IS AIMED AT MORE AVID OR PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHERS AND GRAPHIC DESIGNERS.
Does Photoshop 7 run and write actions? NOT SURE, DIDN'T USE THAT VERSION

2. Where can I find info about the types of Photoshop? I looked at the Adobe site and all I can find is PSCS4, so PSCS3 isn't available anymore or is it? PHOTOSHOP AND PHOTOSHOP CREATIVE SUITE ARE THE SAME, PHOTOSHOP IS OLDER VERSIONS, PSCS IS NEWER. AS EACH NEW VERSION COMES OUT THE NUMBER AT THE END CHANGES AND THE OLD VERSION IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE FROM ADOBE.

3. When a new version of PSE comes out, sounds like the previous version goes on sale in stores (not sure about online)...right? So does the current version of PSCS go on sale when there's a new version coming out? ONE WOULD THINK SO, BUT RETAILERS PROBABLY ONLY CARRY A VERY LIMITED SUPPLY BECAUSE OF THE PRICE SO THEY MAY NOT DISCOUNT AT ALL IF THEY KNOW A NEW VERSION IS COMING OUT AND CAN SELL OUT OF THEIR CURRENT STOCK. DEPENDS ON THE STORE I WOULD IMAGINE.

[Kathleen]

3. When a new version of PSE comes out, sounds like the previous version goes on sale in stores (not sure about online)...right? So does the current version of PSCS go on sale when there's a new version coming out?

Thanks :)


3. When a new version of PSE comes out, sounds like the previous version goes on sale in stores (not sure about online)...right? So does the current version of PSCS go on sale when there's a new version coming out? ONE WOULD THINK SO, BUT RETAILERS PROBABLY ONLY CARRY A VERY LIMITED SUPPLY BECAUSE OF THE PRICE SO THEY MAY NOT DISCOUNT AT ALL IF THEY KNOW A NEW VERSION IS COMING OUT AND CAN SELL OUT OF THEIR CURRENT STOCK. DEPENDS ON THE STORE I WOULD IMAGINE.

Just to add to what Diane has said, with PSE, when a new version has been released (for example, PSE7 just recently), you see past versions (at this point, probably PSE6 and PSE5) bundled with certain things. Something like a digital camera or a Wacom tablet.

As for the full blown Photoshop, I can't think of seeing it on sale just because the new version has been released, because it is still a pretty current program at just about 18 months old.

[lbjiowa]

I've added some notes below ... in RED

1. Does Photoshop (up to 7) relate to PSCS? The progression in PHOTOSHOP went something like this: PS 4, PS 5, PS 6, PS 7, PSCS, PSCS2, PSCS3, and now PSCS4. Elements releases were PSE, PSE2, PSE3, PSE4, PSE5, PSE6, and now PSE7.

NOTE: PSE4 was probably the WORST release on record! They actually forgot to include the Alignment Functions that had been in PSE3 ... oops!:p

Does Photoshop 7 run and write actions?
YES PS7 writes and runs actions. In fact, if you search the web you'll find many free actions out there for Photoshop 7. IMHO the major enhancements since PS7 have been in the interface ... the way the menus, palettes and toolbars are presented ... of course there's been some improvement in function but for me it's the interface that is SO MUCH better!

This BIG difference between ALL Photoshop versions and PS Elements is that Adobe does NOT include PATHS and CHANNLES in it's Elements products. A DEAL-Breaker for me, but most people won't miss them if they are using the product to enhance their photos and to make digital page layouts (esp if they are using kits designed by someone else.

[Leea]

An upgrade from PSE to PS4 (not extended version) is getting the full Photoshop program, right? and PS4 extended is something more than the full Photoshop?
What I'm basically asking is if you get an upgrade to CS4 from PSE, you get the same program with the same features as if you'd bought the full version of the CS4 program in the box right from the start...even though you save money with an upgrade deal?
Thanks :)
Leea

[Lauren]

Yes there is PS CS4 and then there is PS CS4 extended - you wont need the extended version for scrapbooking - it includes most of the 3d functionality and a few extras

[dmrdm]

Yes, the offer for $299, is the normal, full blown version of Photoshop. The extended version is more expensive and gets into 3D stuff, which most scrapbookers wouldn't need.

Costco has an on-line offer which is hard to beat for Elements. It is for the new versions of Elements and Linda's training CD. You don't have to be a member to order it. If you're new, it would be helpful.

As you are new to scrapbooking....and just starting to play with it...you might want to stick with Elements. If you end up not being addicted to it, continue to find it frustrating or don't end up developing your skills to the max....then you made a wise choice by buying it vs CS4. If you end up loving it...being addicted...and you "understand" what you are missing by not having CS4...and those features are important to you....then it's time to take the plunge and buy CS4...or maybe it will be 5 by that time.

If you buy elements....REGISTER IT...you will then get the emails for the offer to buy Photoshop CS4 or whatever it is at the time for $299. That's how I got mine a few years ago...it was CS2 at the time. Wacum everyonce in while has an upgrade from Elements to CS also when you buy a tablet.

Elements is great...if you pick up some digital magazines, or look at galleries, you can see that it is very powerful...and does most things for most people...and yes...you can blend easily!

Moving from Elements to CS4 down the road is not hard. I actually moved from PSP to it with no problem. After 2 weeks of playing with CS2, I never opened PSP again. It's more of a hype you get yourself into than anything else. I had gotten probably about 4 different versions of Elements over the years free with scanners, camera's and tablets, but always used PSP as my primary program.

I assume you don't shoot RAW...but if you would happen to, the RAW options are significantly better in Photoshop CS4. So text on a path, stiching on a path....are all things you can do in CS3/4.

Download a copy of CS4 sometime....play with it...and then decide. If you're frustrated right now with Elements.....you might want to consider sticking to it for a while. But do download CS4 and try it...then you can decide.

I love CS3...and wanted it for many, many years ...so I jumped at it when I bumped into the offer. (I'm just a hobbiest, so could never justify the $600). But I love dinking with programs and figuring things out, so can't say that I was ever frustrated. One just learns to google alot and look for tuts. I've also purchased a couple of dozen books to learn alot of fun things and get a digital magazine. One learns something new everyday!

If money is no object, I'd certainly get CS4 though...or if your dream is to become a designer and you are dedicated to doing that.

Download a 30 day demo and see what you think. Good luck.

[Leea]

Thanks for the replies :) I've been using PSP since I started digital scrapping last year, I've taken classes in PSP and love it, but also want the things Photoshop can do. My Wacom tablet came with PSE3, I decided to try it, even took classes. I'm used to PSP where everything opens in the workspace...so when I try PSE, I can't get things out of the photo bin easily, I have to struggle to make a layout, reading books, re-reading instructions.
I downloaded the Photoshop CS3 trial version and made a scrapbook layout... without PS books, no instructions other than the program help...but there's no photo bin in CS from what I can tell so far, so it's easier for me to do things since I'm not fighting with the photo bin LOL. There's a lot more to learn, I know, but it's great to be able to get the papers, photos, and elements in and actually create a basic layout :)
I've been so much happier with the CS3 trial version than with PSE, so I ordered an upgrade from PSE to CS4 and want to be sure that the upgrade from PSE to CS4 (will be getting a download when released) is a full version, with all the same features that come with the program in the box when it's on the shelf.
Thanks :)
Leea

[Lauren]

Yes the upgrade is the same programme that you would buy if you were buying it off the shelf

[lbjiowa]

My notes are in embedded in RED below.
Thanks for the replies :) I've been using PSP since I started digital scrapping last year, I've taken classes in PSP and love it, but also want the things Photoshop can do. My Wacom tablet came with PSE3, I decided to try it, even took classes. I'm used to PSP where everything opens in the workspace...so when I try PSE, I can't get things out of the photo bin easily, I have to struggle to make a layout, reading books, re-reading instructions.
I downloaded the Photoshop CS3 trial version and made a scrapbook layout... without PS books, no instructions other than the program help...but there's no photo bin in CS from what I can tell so far, so it's easier for me to do things since I'm not fighting with the photo bin LOL. NOTE: The Photo Bin (Project Bin, Photo Gallery ... whatever your version of Elements calls it ...) can be closed and not used if you want Elements to 'look' more like the full-blown version of Photoshop. The key is to be set your Windows to 'Cascade' mode. Then all your open files will be displayed in your workspace. This is nice for those of us who are 'visual' by nature. Just thought I'd share that tidbit in case any Elements users end up in this thread and begin to think they NEED to buy CS4 in order to eliminate the Project Bin (as it's called in PSE6. ;)There's a lot more to learn, I know, but it's great to be able to get the papers, photos, and elements in and actually create a basic layout :)
I've been so much happier with the CS3 trial version than with PSE, so I ordered an upgrade from PSE to CS4 and want to be sure that the upgrade from PSE to CS4 (will be getting a download when released) is a full version, with all the same features that come with the program in the box when it's on the shelf.
Thanks :)
Leea
NOTE: You'll especailly love CS (any version) when you get to the place where you learn PATHS, TEXT PATHS etc as you'll be able to make your blocks of text follow odd shapes or lines of text follow a curvy line etc... lot's of fun!

:wave:

[Leea]

Thanks for the information about the photo bin :) I have a hard time letting go of software LOL..and I was thinking that if I was working on a project, say photo albums using a set of the same photos for each of my girls, but maybe different layouts for the photos (to match their interests, color favorites, etc.), using PSE3 and having the files separate in the photo bin might be a good way to manage photos and such for each girl's file...to help keep the info separate and less confusing when working with several files...but as I said, I don't really understand PSE... would this be a good use for it where I'd like having the photo bin?
I was going to just deal with my issues learning the photo bin, but when I ran actions in the PS download...I loved seeing the actions being created and then there they are... all done :) also, instead of having to remember where to move the asl files for styles like I did is PSE, in PS there's a dropdown list with "load" and looks like it's the same for actions and brushes too, just click load and they're in there... I like that too :)
Leea

[Leea]

LOL..now that I've posted about how I like how you just click "load" to get actions, styles, ect. into CS, I have a question about getting them out to store elsewhere. I read somewhere when I was trying PSE that it's best to keep styles in a folder, then bring them into the program when needed ( I think it was to keep PSE from bogging down/moving slow?)...so I unzipped the styles files, took the asl files out of each style that I wanted, and placed the asl files in folder just for them..then I would move them back and forth between PSE and the folder as needed.
Since PS3 loads the styles, I don't know where they are and if I can go there in the program and move them back to a storage folder outside of CS...is this possible? If so, where are the asl files after being loaded, and do I just move them into a storage folder as I did with PSE?
Thanks :)
Leea

[Lauren]

you can save style to wherever you like and load them from there. You use the preset manager ( edit preset manager) to save your presets . Allthis is covered in both the ps beginners class and the ps element making classes here at DSP

[Leea]

Thank you :) I've checked the class schedules, but the January classes don't show, so I'll try to check back in December to see if the class schedules are up.

[lbjiowa]

you can save style to wherever you like and load them from there. You use the preset manager ( edit preset manager) to save your presets . Allthis is covered in both the ps beginners class and the ps element making classes here at DSP

Leea - One reason most PSCS (any version) would choose to store their library of 'Presets' (actions, brushes, color swatches, patterns, styles, textures, etc) in a folder/location other than the software 'default' folder(s) is because then, when you upgrade to a new version you won't run the risk of having your non-Adobe presets written over. (Something that could be quite frustrating!).

You may just want to think through your file structures on the hard drive and get something set up for all the third-party preset files you have (just make sure they are compatible with your version of photoshop ... I just dug my way out of a very frustrating problem with CS3 as a result of incompatible presets which caused pscs to shut down everytime I'd try to save a file using File SaveAs ... uffdah!) You could have it split so there could be an easy way to include and exclude presets easily, ie:

MY DOCUMENTS\Adobe\PSCS3\3rdPartyPresets\Installed\.. ...
MY DOCUMENTS\Adobe\PSCS3\3rdPartyPresets\Uninstalled\ .....

(having specific folders therein for each type of preset)

This way, you can easily move them from the installed region to the uninstalled and visa-versa ... keeping things organized. Then occasionally make a good set of backups!