Nik Sharpener Pro
Nik Sharpener Pro is designed to give the user complete control over the sharpening workflow, from RAW pre-sharpening and creative detail enhancement to superior output sharpening based on the specific output device. It takes particular account of image detail and detail relationships; the intended print process, including resolution of the output device and substrate type/characteristics; and the viewing characteristics, including intended display distance and the personal preferences of the artist creating the print.
Aimed at professionals, Nik Sharpener Pro has an easy-to-use interface, with simple slider controls to adjust parameters at the output stage such as paper type and printer resolution. You can sharpen parts of the image using Nik Software's U Point technology which has now been implemented in this product. Sharpener Pro is also compatible with Apple Aperture's ability to work on multiple images at once.
Comment
If you want to avoid over-sharpening, or ineffective sharpening, this is a product that can help. Developed by Nils Kokemohr (astrophysicist, painter, photographer, cellist), it has many users completely hooked, such is the improvement it makes to the print quality of an image.
The secret is in the fine-tuning, as Nik Sharpener Pro helps you optimize the image by taking into account the capabilities of the output device.
Amazon (see right) sells this product at half list price.
Tech info
- Plugs into: Adobe Photoshop 7 onwards, Elements, and compatible programs; Apple's Aperture
- OS: Windows XP onward; Mac OS X
- Price level: Approx. $400
Nik Software
Famous for its U Point image area selection technology, Nik Software is headquartered in San Diego, California with branch offices in Germany. Established in 1995, it is a privately held company.
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