LightMachine
LightMachine is a specialist light correction tool with some clever masking options that allow you to separate parts of the image for independent processing. A brightness/contrast mode operates globally, but there is also a shadows/highlights mode that gives you complete control over dark and bright areas anywhere in the image. Virtual Studio modes then allow you to arrange shadow and light spots very much as though you are placing studio lights, with control over the intensity, size, ovality, angle, hardness and reflection properties of each spotlight.
Comment
LightMachine works effectively, although it can be time-consuming to perfect the masking with its highly precise adjustment parameters.
DigitalScrapbookPlace.com (still going strong) called it "the ultimate Digital Dark Room Tool," and admired its ability to fix very poor photos.
At its launch most reviewers agreed that it represented good value for money -- and it is now substantially cheaper. A 64-bit upgrade is available, too.
Tech info
- Plugs into: Photoshop, Elements, Paint Shop Pro, PhotoImpact, Photo-Paint, Fireworks, etc.
- OS: Windows 95 onwards; Mac OS X
- Price level: Approx. $50
PhotoWiz
Harald Heim's The Plugin Site is a favorite destination for thousands of digital photographers. It is staffed by a small team of prgrammers and designers, based in Nuremberg, Germany.
From the same vendor:
- B/W Styler
- FocalBlade
- ColorWasher
- ContrastMaster
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