Photomatix HDR Software

The incredibly popular HDR image processing program known as Photomatix has been empowering HDR photographers and enthusiasts since February, 2003. It was the result of work done related to a research project that had commenced the previous year. It was released by the company that is known today as HDRsoft (formerly Multimedia Pro). At the time of its commencement, there truly was practically no competition in the field. Now, almost a decade later, there are several options available as alternatives to using Photomatix. However, Photomatix has so much going for it alongside of its content and capability that it is deftly defending its champion title. HDRsoft is clearly on top its game, which is fantastic for all who love and work with HDR photography.

Photomatix Version 4.0 was released in the fall of 2010, and has been touted as the most progressive HDR software there is. There are several new functions and features now available, such as a preset thumbnail display panel, high quality noise reduction, tone-mapping for single 8-bit images, and selective deghosting. Although Photomatix Pro is undoubtedly the version of the software that offers the most control and versatility, there are now several versions of Photomatix from which to choose.

The amateur photographer or novice HDR enthusiast can go with Photomatix Light. It is a very basic springboard into what HDR imaging and Photomatix can provide. As its name suggests, it is a much less technical and involved version of the program. It tends to be the gateway for users to learn and be encouraged by what they are producing, to eventually lead to the upgrade to Photomatix Pro. The price is $39; if the user decides to upgrade their license to the Pro version, the commitment is only $60 more. This is advisable for those who want to take their time to experiment and be assured of their interest in the program or HDR work.

There is also the Pro Plus Bundle, which could be regarded as the best bet for the Mac user. This is because it is comprised of Photomatix Pro, the Photoshop Tone Mapping Plug-in, and (for Mac users only) the Aperture Plug-in. Both the Aperture Plug-in and the Photoshop Tone Mapping Plug-in are available as separate purchases on their own. The Photoshop Plug-in’s only function is to tone-map images strictly in Photoshop, and likewise with the Aperture Plug-in. Both plug-ins as standalone items are missing many of the features found in Photomatix Pro.

Of course, all of these options with the different versions of Photomatix can be obtained as free downloads in their fully functional trial versions. These will never expire and are great tools to use in learning about the software. The trials will embed a watermark in saved images. However, once a license key is purchased for whichever version is desired, the watermarks from the saved images can be removed, provided there has been no post-processing after they were saved. Wisely, HDRsoft must protect the viability of their business because of their stellar product, therefore the watermark solution is a logical necessity. Also, they encourage any and all interested photographers and artists to try before they buy. A browser search for reviews of Photomatix will find very little criticism and innumerable praises blogged in its favor.

In closing, the best that can offered here is to direct you towards a comprehensive tutorial which talks further about HDR photography and Photomatix Pro, A 15% discount coupon is also included there, to save money on your Photomatix purchase.

Enjoy!

Make sure to check out a comprehensive Photomatix tutorial which includes a 15% discount coupon code.