
PaintShop Pro - Detailed Review
Creative Tools

PaintShop Pro - Product Overview
Overview
PaintShop Pro is a comprehensive photo editing and graphic design software developed by Corel, positioned as an affordable alternative to Adobe Photoshop. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:
Primary Function
PaintShop Pro is an advanced photo editor that offers a wide range of tools for editing, retouching, and managing photographs. It also includes graphic design capabilities, allowing users to create various compositions such as posters, web graphics, and more.
Target Audience
The software is primarily aimed at:
- Photography Enthusiasts: From hobbyists to serious photographers, PaintShop Pro provides all the necessary tools for editing and managing photo collections.
- Graphic Designers: It is ideal for graphic designers who need to create compositions like posters, brochures, and web graphics.
- Creative Consumers: Individuals who produce content to share with friends and family can also benefit from its creative tools.
Key Features
- Multiple Workspaces: PaintShop Pro offers different workspaces, including “Complete” and “Essentials,” allowing users to customize their interface based on their needs.
- AI-Powered Tools: The software includes AI-based solutions for one-click fixes and advanced photo editing, such as auto-correction and One Step Photo Fix.
- RAW, HDR, and 360° Photo Editing: It supports powerful editing of RAW files through tools like AfterShot Lab, HDR tools for combining photos with different exposures, and the ability to edit 360-degree photos.
- Selection and Correction Tools: Users can isolate areas with various selection tools, correct distortions, vignetting, and chromatic aberrations, and use tools like the Straighten and Perspective Correction tools.
- Batch Processing: Allows users to apply the same edits to multiple photos simultaneously, saving time and increasing productivity.
- Creative Effects and Filters: Offers hundreds of creative filters and effects, including artistic effects, film styles, and instant effects that can be stacked and customized.
- Compatibility and System Requirements: PaintShop Pro is compatible with Windows 7, 8, and 10, and supports a wide range of file formats. However, it is not available for macOS or Linux without using Boot Camp.
Conclusion
Overall, PaintShop Pro is a versatile tool that combines professional-level photo editing with graphic design capabilities, making it a valuable resource for both photographers and graphic designers.

PaintShop Pro - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of PaintShop Pro is designed to be familiar and accessible, especially for those who have experience with other image-editing software like Adobe Photoshop.Workspaces and Layout
PaintShop Pro offers several workspaces to cater to different user needs. The main workspace, known as the “Complete” workspace, is the most comprehensive and resembles Adobe Photoshop closely. It includes a Tool palette, Layers panel, and Materials panel, along with a Filmstrip bar at the bottom for easy access to library images. This workspace is ideal for users who need a full suite of image-editing tools. In addition to the Complete workspace, there are other options such as the “Essentials” workspace, which is more simplified and suitable for basic image editing, and a “Photography” workspace, designed for use on touchscreen devices with a minimalistic design.Interface Elements
The interface is divided into clear sections, including the Manage and Edit tabs at the top. The Manage tab allows for image sorting and organization, similar to Adobe’s Bridge platform, while the Edit tab provides access to a wide range of editing tools, including layers, text, brushes, and effects. The user can customize the workspace by switching individual panels on or off and rearranging them to suit their workflow.AI and Automation Tools
PaintShop Pro incorporates various AI-driven tools, such as AI Portrait mode, Smart Photo Fix, and noise reduction features. These tools are designed to automate certain tasks, like removing artifacts, denoising, and adding sharpness, using basic sliders for adjustments. However, these AI tools, while useful, do not match the precision and intelligence of those found in Adobe Photoshop.Ease of Use
For users familiar with Photoshop, the interface of PaintShop Pro will feel quite familiar. The language and iconography are similar, making it easy to transition. There is also a Learning panel available in the Complete workspace that provides easy-to-understand instructions for beginners. However, the software can sometimes feel a bit clunky and lacking in modern styling, with a fragmented user experience due to the multiple workspaces and tools.Customization and Accessibility
Users can customize their workspace extensively. The tool options palette is context-sensitive, changing based on the selected tool. There are also built-in instructional tips that appear as you select different tools, helping to guide new users. The menu bar and toolbars can be adjusted in terms of icon size, text size, and other preferences to enhance usability.Overall User Experience
While PaintShop Pro offers a wide array of features and tools, the overall user experience can be somewhat disjointed due to the many different workspaces and tools available. The software tries to pack a lot of features into one platform, which can lead to a fragmented experience. However, for those looking for a budget-friendly, one-time purchase alternative to Photoshop, PaintShop Pro is an excellent option, especially for Windows users. In summary, PaintShop Pro’s user interface is designed for both beginners and advanced users, with a focus on familiarity and functionality. While it may lack the polish and consistency of some other software, it provides a powerful set of tools for image editing at a fraction of the cost of subscription-based alternatives.
PaintShop Pro - Key Features and Functionality
AI-Driven Tools in PaintShop Pro 2023
PaintShop Pro, particularly in its 2023 version, incorporates a range of AI-driven tools that significantly enhance the photo editing and creative process. Here are the main features and how they work:AI Denoise
This feature uses AI to remove random variations in brightness and color, often caused by low-light environments. It helps clear up unwanted noise, ensuring that each photo is crisp and clear. This tool is particularly useful for improving image quality without manual adjustments, saving time and effort.AI Artifact Removal
This tool leverages AI to remove artifacts and restore fine details and original colors in JPEGs. It reverses distortion effects that can occur during file compression, helping to maintain the original quality of the image. This feature is essential for preserving the integrity of your photos, especially those that have been compressed.AI Upsampling
With AI Upsampling, you can dramatically enlarge any photo without compromising its resolution or visual quality. This feature uses AI to magnify the finest details, making it ideal for creating large prints or enlargements without losing any clarity.AI Portrait Mode
AI Portrait Mode automatically detects the subject of your photo and applies a depth of field or bokeh blur effect to the background. This creates a professional-looking portrait by making the subject stand out. You can adjust the background blur and area of focus using the controls, and the effect is applied as a new layer in your image. This feature simplifies the process of creating high-quality portraits.AI Background Replacement
This feature allows you to replace the background of a photo easily. The AI automatically detects the subject and creates a mask, which you can refine using the Refine Brush if needed. You can then choose from 20 background presets or add your own background image. This tool is highly useful for quickly changing the context of your photos without extensive manual editing.AI Style Transfer
AI Style Transfer enables you to apply artistic styles to your photos. This feature uses AI to transform your images into various artistic styles, such as turning a photo into a sketch or painting. It is found in the Instant Effects palette and allows you to stack multiple effects for more creative outcomes.HDR Merge and Focus Stacking
While not exclusively AI-driven, these tools are enhanced by the overall efficiency of PaintShop Pro. The HDR Merge tool combines multiple exposures to create a single image with a broader tonal range, and Focus Stacking blends multiple images taken at different focus distances to create a sharp depth of field in the final composite. These features benefit from the streamlined workflow and automation options provided by the software.Real-Time Blend Mode Preview
This feature allows you to quickly check the layer blending result by hovering over drop-list options in the Layers palette. This real-time preview helps in making swift and informed decisions about layer blending, which is particularly useful when working with multiple layers and effects.AfterShot Lab
AfterShot Lab is a new feature in PaintShop Pro 2023 that enhances the editing capabilities of RAW files. It offers tools similar to Adobe Lightroom, allowing for advanced editing of RAW files directly within PaintShop Pro. This feature is beneficial for photographers who need to edit RAW files with a range of professional-level tools.Conclusion
These AI-driven tools in PaintShop Pro significantly streamline the photo editing process, allowing users to achieve professional-quality results with minimal effort. They integrate seamlessly into the various workspaces of the software, making it easier to access and utilize these advanced features.
PaintShop Pro - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
PaintShop Pro 2023 has mixed reviews in terms of performance. While it offers a wide range of features at an affordable price, its actual performance can be somewhat disappointing. The software has been described as “clunky, dated and often counterintuitive” in use, despite its feature-rich interface.
In terms of system requirements, PaintShop Pro is generally quicker and less demanding on your system compared to Adobe Photoshop. This can be beneficial if you are using an older computer, as it may run more smoothly on less powerful hardware.
However, specific performance issues have been noted, such as sluggishness and occasional hangs, even on relatively powerful systems like a Windows laptop with a Ryzen 7 processor, Radeon graphics, 16GB RAM, and an SSD.
Accuracy and AI-Driven Tools
PaintShop Pro incorporates several AI-driven tools that aim to enhance photo editing efficiency and accuracy. These include AI Denoise, AI Artifact Removal, AI Upsampling, and AI Style Transfer, all of which were introduced in PaintShop Pro 2021.
- AI Denoise helps remove noise from images, particularly those taken in low-light conditions.
- AI Artifact Removal restores fine details and original colors in JPEGs, reversing distortion effects caused by file compression.
- AI Upsampling allows users to enlarge photos without compromising resolution or visual quality.
- AI Portrait Mode, introduced in PaintShop Pro 2022, applies a depth of field or bokeh blur effect to the background of images, automatically detecting and masking the subject.
These AI tools are generally praised for being time-savers and for their ability to enhance image quality quickly. However, the overall accuracy and precision of these tools may not match the standards set by more professional-grade software like Adobe Photoshop, especially in fine-tuning and detailed editing tasks.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
One significant limitation is the user interface and usability. Despite the integration of new features, the software can feel outdated and counterintuitive, which may hinder user experience.
Additionally, the performance enhancements promised in PaintShop Pro 2023 were not fully evident in practice, with some users experiencing sluggish performance and occasional crashes.
For serious photographers, PaintShop Pro may not offer the same level of precision and advanced features as Adobe Photoshop. For example, Photoshop’s capabilities in removing shadows and performing skin retouching are unmatched by PaintShop Pro.
In summary, while PaintShop Pro offers a range of AI-driven tools that can significantly enhance photo editing, its performance and accuracy are somewhat marred by usability issues and limitations in advanced editing capabilities. If you are a beginner or on a budget, PaintShop Pro can be a cost-effective choice, but professionals may find it lacking compared to more advanced software.

PaintShop Pro - Pricing and Plans
The Pricing Structure of Corel PaintShop Pro
The pricing structure of Corel PaintShop Pro is straightforward and offers several options to cater to different needs and budgets.
Plans and Pricing
PaintShop Pro
- This is the base version, priced at $79.99 (or £69.99 / AU$83).
- It includes a comprehensive set of photo editing tools, such as layers, masks, text tools, clone brush, magic wand, gradient fill, and more.
- This version is suitable for most photographers and image editors who need basic to advanced editing features without the extra software included in the Ultimate version.
PaintShop Pro Ultimate
- This version is priced at $99.99 (or £89.99 / AU$104).
- In addition to all the features in the standard PaintShop Pro, the Ultimate version includes several extra software packages:
- Corel MultiCam Capture 2 for screen and webcam recording
- Highlight Reel for creating short highlight videos
- Sea to Sky workspace for underwater and drone images
- Photo Mirage Express for creating animated images
- Corel Painter Essentials 8
- 50 free fonts
- Corel Creative Collection with new backgrounds, paintbrushes, and textures.
Free Trial
- Both the PaintShop Pro and PaintShop Pro Ultimate versions offer a 30-day free trial.
- This trial allows full access to all premium features and content, including extensive built-in help, training videos, and professionally designed templates. No credit card is required.
Upgrade Pricing
- For users who already own a previous version of PaintShop Pro or Ultimate, upgrade pricing is available at a discounted rate. This allows users to transition to the latest version without paying the full price.
Summary
In summary, PaintShop Pro offers a one-time purchase model with two main tiers, each catering to different levels of user needs, and a free trial option to test the software before committing to a purchase.

PaintShop Pro - Integration and Compatibility
Overview
PaintShop Pro, a comprehensive photo editing and design software, offers significant integration and compatibility features that make it versatile and user-friendly across various platforms and devices.Plugin Integration
One of the key strengths of PaintShop Pro is its ability to integrate with third-party plugins. These plugins can be easily installed and configured to add enhanced functionality to the software. Here’s how it works:Installation Steps
- You can install plugins from various sources, such as the Google Nik filters or other third-party tools like Topaz Labs.
- During installation, note the file path where the plugin is installed.
- In PaintShop Pro, go to File > Preferences > File Locations, enable the Enable plugins checkbox, and add the plugin file path. This allows PaintShop Pro to recognize and use the third-party plugins.
Compatibility with Photoshop Plugins
PaintShop Pro supports several Photoshop plugin interfaces, including Filter Module (8bf), Export Module (8be), Format Module (8bi), and Import Module (8ba). This compatibility makes it easier to use plugins developed for Adobe Photoshop within PaintShop Pro.System Requirements and Platform Compatibility
PaintShop Pro is compatible with Windows 11 and Windows 10 (version 1903 or later, 64-bit editions). It does not support the native 32-bit version of Windows, so users with 32-bit systems need to use earlier versions of the software.Hardware Requirements
For optimal performance, PaintShop Pro requires an Intel Celeron G series or AMD Phenom II processor (with Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen series recommended for AI feature support). It also needs at least 4GB of RAM (8GB recommended for AI features) and 3GB of available hard-disk space. A DirectX 11 or higher compatible video adapter is necessary, with a recommended DirectX 12 compatible discrete VGA card for GPU acceleration.AI-Powered Tools
Starting from PaintShop Pro 2021, the software includes AI-powered tools such as AI Style Transfer, which are accessible in different workspaces (Photography, Essentials, or Complete). These tools are not available in versions prior to 2021.File Format Support
PaintShop Pro supports a wide range of file formats for both importing and exporting, including RAW files from over 800 camera models, as well as common formats like JPEG, PNG, and PSD. This extensive support ensures that users can work with a variety of image types seamlessly.Language Support
The software is available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Dutch, Russian, Traditional Chinese, and Japanese, making it accessible to a broad user base.Conclusion
In summary, PaintShop Pro offers strong integration with third-party plugins, compatibility with Photoshop plugins, and runs on Windows 11 and 10 with specific hardware requirements. Its support for various file formats and multiple languages further enhances its usability across different user needs.
PaintShop Pro - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
PaintShop Pro offers several avenues for customer support:Phone Support
For users in the US and Canada, you can contact the customer service team using the toll-free number (877) 582-6735. For other regions, there are specific numbers:- 3 380 508 7928 for France
- 49 800 723 8455 for Germany
- 44 203 901 8665 for the rest of Europe, Middle East, and South Africa
- 44 800 023 2433 for the UK
Email Support
You can reach out to Corel through various email addresses depending on your query:- info@corel.com for general requests and inquiries
- corelar@iqbackoffice.com for accounting and billing issues
- privacy@corel.com for privacy and legal concerns
- media@alludo.com for media inquiries
- partners@alludo.com for business customer support
Online Support
You can create a support ticket or start a live chat with a company agent directly on the Corel website. This allows you to discuss your issues in detail and get prompt assistance.Additional Resources
Learning and Tutorials
PaintShop Pro provides a wealth of learning resources to help you get started and improve your skills:- Video Tutorials: These introduce you to key features and help you master the application quickly.
- User Guide: A comprehensive PDF guide that covers basic information to get you started.
- Web-Based Help: A detailed reference for the application, containing the most up-to-date information.
Community and Forums
You can connect with other users online through the Corel community. This is a great way to share your experiences, learn from others, and get tips and tricks from talented photo and design enthusiasts.Blog and Updates
The official PaintShop Pro blog keeps you informed about the latest developments, how-to articles, profiles, and interviews with community members. This is a valuable resource for staying updated on the software and its features.AI-Powered Tools
PaintShop Pro includes AI-driven tools that are huge time-savers. Features like smart color correction, photo enhancing, and generative content creation help streamline your editing workflow and provide an intuitive approach to editing.Operating Hours
Customer support is available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM EST and on weekends from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST. Note that hours may vary during major holidays. By utilizing these support options and resources, you can effectively address any issues, learn new skills, and make the most out of PaintShop Pro.
PaintShop Pro - Pros and Cons
Corel PaintShop Pro: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Cost-Effective: PaintShop Pro is a budget-friendly alternative to Adobe Photoshop, offering a wide range of features without the need for a subscription.
- AI-Powered Tools: The software includes several AI-driven tools such as AI Denoise, AI Artifact Removal, AI Upsampling, and AI Style Transfer. These tools can significantly enhance image quality by removing noise, artifacts, and improving resolution when enlarging images.
- AI Portrait Mode: Introduced in PaintShop Pro 2022, this feature allows users to apply a depth of field or bokeh blur effect to the background of images, making subjects stand out. The AI automatically detects the subject and creates a mask, which can be refined manually.
- User-Friendly AI Features: Many AI tools are easy to use and can be accessed through different workspaces (Complete, Essentials, and Photography), making it simpler for users to apply advanced edits with minimal effort.
- Comprehensive Feature Set: PaintShop Pro offers a nearly identical feature set to Photoshop, including various image adjustment tools, making it a viable alternative for many users.
Disadvantages
- Clunky and Dated Interface: Some users find the interface clunky, dated, and often counterintuitive, particularly when compared to more streamlined competitors like Photoshop.
- Performance Issues: The software can be sluggish, especially with demanding tasks like masking layers with large brushes. It may also hang or crash on some systems.
- Limited Advanced Tools: While PaintShop Pro includes many useful tools, it lacks some of the more advanced color and retouching tools available in Photoshop. The AI tools, although helpful, are not as precise or intelligent as those in Adobe’s offerings.
- Workspace Inconsistencies: The different workspaces (Complete, Essentials, Photography) have distinct looks and feels, which can be jarring for users switching between them.
- Upgrade Value: Some users question the value of upgrading to new versions, as the improvements may not justify the upgrade cost, especially if the user is already familiar with the software.
Conclusion
Overall, PaintShop Pro is a solid choice for those seeking a budget-friendly, feature-rich alternative to Photoshop, but it may not meet the expectations of more advanced or professional users due to its interface and performance issues.

PaintShop Pro - Comparison with Competitors
Comparison of Corel PaintShop Pro with Other Creative Tools
User-Friendly Interface and Features
Corel PaintShop Pro is known for its user-friendly interface, making it ideal for beginners. It offers features like direct modification of unprocessed files, vector editing, layers, and AI photo editing tools. The software also includes automated settings in the Camera Raw Lab and tools like the Refine Brush and Blend Mode for precise image adjustments.Alternatives
PhotoDirector 365
PhotoDirector 365 is a strong alternative, offering a simple-to-use interface along with advanced AI-powered tools such as AI object removal, background removal, and AI denoise. It is suitable for both beginners and professionals and provides a comprehensive image editing package.Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop is a more advanced option, packed with features like Layer Effects, Patch Tool, and Content-Aware Fill, making it ideal for professional-grade editing. However, it has a steeper learning curve and can be more demanding on hardware compared to PaintShop Pro.GIMP
GIMP is another cross-platform alternative that is completely free and open source. It offers features similar to PaintShop Pro, including original artwork creation, graphic design, and editable source code. GIMP is highly customizable and runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.AI-Powered Tools
Canva Magic Studio
While not a traditional photo editor, Canva Magic Studio is an AI-powered design tool that can be useful for image editing. It offers features like Magic Design, Magic Write, Magic Edit, and Magic Eraser, which can simplify and enhance the creative process. This tool is particularly useful for quick adjustments and content creation.Performance and Speed
PaintShop Pro is generally quicker and less demanding on system resources compared to Photoshop, making it a good choice for users with older computers. However, Photoshop offers broader file compatibility and more sophisticated features for advanced editing.Pricing
PaintShop Pro stands out with its one-time payment option, which can be cost-effective in the long run, especially for casual users. In contrast, Photoshop and PhotoDirector 365 often require subscription plans, although they may include additional cloud storage and regular updates.Unique Features
Chasys Draw IES
This free suite includes a layer-based editor, timeline, frame animation, and comprehensive plug-in support. It is optimized for multi-core processors and touchscreens, offering RAW image support and compatibility with various file formats.Conclusion
In summary, while Corel PaintShop Pro offers a user-friendly interface and a range of useful features, alternatives like PhotoDirector 365, Adobe Photoshop, and GIMP provide different strengths depending on your needs. If you are looking for AI-powered design tools, Canva Magic Studio can also be a valuable addition to your creative toolkit.
PaintShop Pro - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about PaintShop Pro
How do I use the AI Portrait Mode in PaintShop Pro?
AI Portrait Mode, introduced in PaintShop Pro 2022, allows you to apply a depth of field or bokeh blur effect to the background of your image. To use this feature, you need to be in the Complete or Essentials workspace. The AI will automatically detect the subject in your photo and create a mask. You can refine the mask using the Refine brush if necessary. Once the subject is masked, you can adjust the background blur and area of focus to your liking, and the effect will be applied as a new layer.How can I remove noise from images using AI Denoise in PaintShop Pro?
The AI Denoise feature, available in PaintShop Pro 2021 and later versions, helps remove random variations of brightness and color in images, often caused by low light environments. To use AI Denoise, go to the Adjust menu in the Complete or Essentials workspace, where you will find the Artificial Intelligence tools. Select AI Denoise to quickly clear up unwanted noise and make your photos crisp and clear.Can I use AI to enlarge photos without losing quality in PaintShop Pro?
Yes, you can use the AI Upsampling feature to dramatically enlarge photos without compromising resolution or visual quality. This feature is available in PaintShop Pro 2021 and later. To access it, go to the Image menu and select Resize, where you will find the AI Upsampling option. This tool uses AI to magnify the finest details, ensuring the enlarged photo remains clear and high-quality.How do I remove artifacts from JPEG images using AI Artifact Removal in PaintShop Pro?
The AI Artifact Removal feature, introduced in PaintShop Pro 2021, helps remove artifacts and restore fine details and original colors in JPEGs. This feature is particularly useful for reversing distortion effects caused by file compression. You can find this tool in the Adjust menu within the Complete or Essentials workspace.Can I transfer styles from one image to another using AI in PaintShop Pro?
Yes, PaintShop Pro offers an AI Style Transfer feature. This tool allows you to apply the style of one image to another. You can find AI Style Transfer in the Instant Effects palette. This feature enables you to transform your images by adopting the style and aesthetic of a different image, making it a great tool for creative projects.How do I use AI Background Replacement in PaintShop Pro?
To use AI Background Replacement, you need to be in the Complete or Essentials workspace. This feature, available in PaintShop Pro 2023 Ultimate, allows you to replace the background of an image using AI. The tool is listed under the Adjust menu. The AI will automatically detect the subject and create a mask, which you can refine if necessary. Then, you can replace the background with a new one, and the effect will be applied as a new layer.Can I create generative art using AI tools in PaintShop Pro?
Yes, PaintShop Pro includes tools powered by generative AI that allow you to create generative art. For example, the Vision FX plugin enables you to transform ideas into visual experiences by adding, expanding, or removing content based on simple text suggestions. These features streamline your workflow and provide an intuitive approach to editing and creating new content.How do I access AI tools in different workspaces of PaintShop Pro?
The availability of AI tools varies depending on the workspace you are using. In the Complete or Essentials workspace, AI tools like AI Denoise, AI Artifact Removal, AI Portrait Mode, and AI Background Replacement are listed under the Adjust menu. In the Photography workspace, some AI tools are available in the Artificial Intelligence menu at the bottom of the interface. Ensure you are in the correct workspace to access the desired AI tools.What system requirements are necessary to use AI features in PaintShop Pro?
To use AI features effectively in PaintShop Pro, your system should meet certain requirements. You need a 64-bit version of Windows 10 (version 1903 or later) or Windows 11, an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen series processor, 8 GB of RAM, and a DirectX 12 compatible discrete VGA card for GPU acceleration. These specifications ensure smooth performance when using the AI-powered tools.How do I refine the mask created by AI Portrait Mode or AI Background Replacement?
When using AI Portrait Mode or AI Background Replacement, the AI will automatically create a mask for the subject. If the mask is not perfect, you can refine it using the Refine brush. This tool allows you to adjust the mask to better fit the subject, ensuring a more accurate application of the AI effects.
PaintShop Pro - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Corel PaintShop Pro
Corel PaintShop Pro stands out as a versatile and powerful tool in the creative tools and AI-driven product category. Here’s a breakdown of its key features and who would benefit most from using it.Key Features
Advanced Photo Editing
- Advanced Photo Editing: PaintShop Pro offers a wide range of pro-level editing tools, including support for RAW files from over 800 camera models, focus stacking, and the ability to remove haze, fog, or smog with just a few clicks.
AI-Based Solutions
- AI-Based Solutions: The software incorporates AI to streamline editing processes, such as quick previewing of layer blending modes and automated object alignment with the Snap To Objects feature.
Graphic Design Tools
- Graphic Design Tools: It includes tools for graphic design, allowing users to create frames from symmetrical shapes, vector text objects, and fill them with images or patterns. The enhanced Frame Tool also supports dragging and dropping photos into frames.
Performance and User Experience
- Performance and User Experience: The software boasts a 30% performance improvement with the Refine Brush, new filtering and sorting options in the New From Template page, and precise rotation-angle control in vector editing.
Additional Software
- Additional Software: The Ultimate version comes with a bonus pack that includes additional premium software, such as VideoStudio Ultimate 2022, making it a comprehensive suite for both photo editing and video production.
Who Would Benefit Most
Professional Photographers
- Professional Photographers: With its extensive range of professional tools, including precise selection tools, layers, brushes, and content-aware editing, PaintShop Pro is ideal for photographers looking to edit their photos at a high level.
Graphic Designers
- Graphic Designers: The software’s capabilities in creating various compositions, such as scrapbook content, posters, and web graphics, make it a valuable tool for graphic designers.
Creative Consumers
- Creative Consumers: Those who produce content to share with friends and family will appreciate the new color palettes, brushes, gradients, patterns, and textures, as well as the additional creative tools in the Ultimate bonus pack.