However, this product is not for dilitentes. You really need to be serious about professional standard graphics to get the most from this superb program. It really is the de facto standard for digital image enhancement, photo retouching, and image compositing, commanding the loyalty of more than 3 million designers worldwide. Take a look. Most offer free trials and they all seem to be designed to work together.
Plug ins automate a lot of special effects, like drop shadows, glowing type and such.
There are thousands of plug ins available, many are completely free others offer free time limited trial downloads. Every Web and Print Designer Must Have Extensis PhotoTools contains major enhancements to its versatile collection of real-world special effects tools for print, multimedia and web design such as multiple light sources in PhotoCastShadow and textured surfaces in PhotoButton. Offers a free demo version. Paint Shop Pro. They automate a lot of special effects, like drop shadows, glowing type and such.