List of software & abbreviations?

[omiof5]

This is a REALLY basic question, but I think it will help new users. I'm trying to compare the most popular/practical software, but I'm getting slowed down by all the abbreviations. Somewhere in this great resource, can I find a list of programs, their abbreviations, and a short review/opinion of each?

For example, I know there are several different Photoshops (PS, PSE, and PSCS2), but I'm not clear on the differences among them. There also seem to be a lot of other programs that are referred to by initials, which makes all the sense in the world but is a little mind-boggling for us newbies. ;)

[TsMom]

Maybe this will help.

PS and PSCS2 - refer to Photoshop. PSCS2 is the most recent version of Photoshop. It's the professional standard and very expensive.

PSE- Photoshop Elements. Much simpler and cheaper that PS or PSCS. Very popular program too.

DIP - Digital Image Pro. The most recent version I believe is 2006.

PI- Typically refers to PhotoImpact by Ulead. You may occassionally see it referring to Picture It, a lighter version of Digital Image Pro.

PSP-Paint Shop Pro. Most recent version is written as PSPX (the X is roman numeral 10). Used to be owned by Jasc, but has been purchased by Corel.

HPCSA- Hewlett Packard Creative Scrapbook Assistant. Basically an assembly program. Others may include Lumapix Fotofusion, Nova Scrapbook Factory, Creating Keepsakes Scrapbook Designer.

There are others but this covers the most popular programs. The last section covers assembly programs or those that are used mostly for putting together pre-made elements.

[Margie]

yep! click on glossary in the top menu! :)

[omiof5]

Thanks so much to both of you! Both answers helped in different ways -- I appreciate having the list in a nutshell and also being aimed toward the glossary, which cleared up some other questions. ;-}

[Amanda]

Take a look at this as well: http://www.digitalscrapbookplace.com/university/Scrapping101/programs.shtml

[omiof5]

A friend recommended Microsoft Office Publisher, but I don't see much discussion about this one in the forums. Not a high choice?

[valeri]

It has been a long time since I have used Publisher, but from what I understand it is a desktop publishing program, so I would think that you could create pages, but not graphics. So if your just using pre-made graphics, I am sure it would work just fine.

Someone please correct me if I am wrong!

[Judyy]

Ditto what Valeri said. Publisher is a good desktop publishing and page layout program, but not meant for photo editing and manipulation. If you want to stick with Microsoft, you could give DIP a try. It's very popular, and I gave it a whirl, but am now a PSE enthusiast. Adobe offers trial versions of many of its programs, downloadable at their website. Not sure what trial versions are available of other programs.

[cat_woman]

I'm trying out GIMP. It's a free software - the code was "hacked" from photoshop, so it works almost exactly like photoshop. I'm not very good with photoshop - I'm a PSPer mostly. I just though GIMP might be good for the scrappers who want to kind of get the feel of photoshop before making that investment...:) I found the trial version just weren't enough time for me to get the hang of the program. That's why I have photoshop & don't know how to really use it....

[Margie]

a few around here do. do a search for gimp in the search box and you'll get some interesting threads where users have figured out how to make things happen. be sure to check out the tutorials for photoshop too!

[omiof5]

Since everyone seems high on PSE and I have it both on my Mac and my PC, I think you've all helped to make the decision for me. I'm enrolled in Emma's beginning PSE class, which begins tomorrow, and I'm looking forward to it.

Thanks to everyone for your input -- I'm very impressed with the quick responses and friendly tone in the forums on this site!! I've even recommended it to friends and family who are die-hard cut and pasters because it's such a great resource for beautiful layouts and photo ideas.

[Emma]

and all the initials must have a P somehwere in them, LOL! DIP, HP, PS, PSE, PSP, there are more!

Check the Glossary above for definitions of some familiar acronyms, and check the New to Digital to find a link to a comparison of softwares as well. Can't wait to see you in class, the links are in the forum now so you can get started!

[omiof5]

Thanks, Emma. As I've read your posts in various forums, I've enjoyed your sense of humor so I look forward to having you as a teacher.

[Emma]

it'll be fun!

my classes aren't funny

just me :D

[omiof5]

I like your style, lady -- if the teacher is funny, the class is funny AND fun no matter what subject it is. ;-}

I'm a retired computer/math teacher, and I've been kind of bumbling along with PSE -- I'm really looking forward to learning how to use the app correctly. Plus I get to further enshrine my beautiful grandchildren. Life is good. :-]