Paint Shop Pro vs. Photoshop Elements

[TammyR.]

Hello Everyone,

I am in the process of updating my software specifically to do digital scrapbooking. I currently use Paint Shop and I find that to be user friendly. I would like your feedback on the two programs. What are and how pertanent are the additional features of PSE to scrapbooking? Would it be worth learning PSE to do all levels and techniques or are both programs sufficient?

I would appreciate hearing your thoughts and recommendations on each program.

Thanks,
Tammy

[Muma]

I have Paint Shop Pro and have tried PSE and my personal choice was to stick with Paint Shop Pro ... for a few reasons. I have known PSP since version 5 so know what is there [which doesn;t mean I know how to use it, LOL, but I know its there] and when I tried out PSE I found a few features missing which frustrated me and everything works in a different way LOL.

The only thing I can suggest is to download the trial of PSE and see how it feels to you, I know many love it and if you want to go up to CS3 or 4 at some point learning the basics in PSE would be of use.

[GailS]

Ditto what Muma said...I've been with PSP since V4. I think I could work with it blind, I'm comfortable with it, I know where everything is and how it works. I have CS4 on my computer now, have made a grand total of one layout with it, and dabble with it occasionally, but no light bulbs went off and I just feel lost.

From what I understand, PSE is missing a lot of the advanced features that PSP and PSCS have and might feel like a downgrade to you. On the other hand, if you're looking to move to PS, it might be a great way to start. I believe more people use and know PS and PSE - maybe some day I'll have the motivation to really dig in. I'd like to learn them both.

Bottom line, stick to what is comfortable to you unless you're looking to learn something new. Both programs are great and sufficient for scrapbooking.

[Dani B]

I use Paint Shop Pro for many things I create - especially scrapbooking. I love it and so far have found no need for any other program.

[stitchmich]

I use PSP also. I was all ready to switch over to PSE this Christmas, so I downloaded the PSE trial... and I just couldn't do it. There are a couple of things I liked about PSE, like the ease of clipping masks and the fact that there are more resources out there for PSE, but it was a downgrade in my mind as far as features. And like the others here, I am comfortable with PSP and I realized there would be a learning curve involved in switching. It wasn't worth it to me. So I upgraded to PSPX2 instead! And I love it.