Software Review :: Picturesque 2

May 14, 2008

The first version of Picturesque was a unique app aimed at people who needed to “beautify” images in a few clicks — thus avoiding what would probably have been a longer-than-expected Photoshop session. In fact, the first version of Picturesque even won a much-coveted Apple Design Award (for Best Student Product). Now that version 2 of the application has been released to much expectations, here’s a look at what’s new.

Design. Just like its predecessor, the second version of Picturesque has a slick, simple, and easy to use interface. The biggest change is that everything was further simplified by adding all the tools to the main window — giving it a neat one-windowed look. Even if you’re used to the previous version, you won’t feel disoriented with the new interface.

Functionality. The new additions to this Leopard-exclusive update include a 3D perspective modifier for the images, an intelligent cropping tool, batch processing, and a presets menu — among other stuff detailed here. But the emphasis should be placed on the new batch processing and preset features, which are sure to improve the workflow of anyone who used the application heavily in the past. If you want to see what Picturesque is capable of doing, take notice that all images below have been edited with it.

Limitations. UPDATED - I previously mentioned that it was hard to disable the effects with one click, and that is incorrect. It’s been brought to my attention that you can disable the effects by clicking on their labels — I guess the most simple things are the easiest to miss. My apologies for this oversight. That being said, the app is perfect by all means — and it already had a perfect score to begin with.

Final thoughts. The first version of Picturesque was received to critical acclaim — including a 10 out of 10 rating here in Mac Recon. Version 2 has kept all the good stuff from the first version, added a new interface, batch processing, presets, and more — amazing improvements all around. If you already bought the first version of Picturesque, the upgrade will cost $12.95, and will certainly be worth it. If you’re new to Picturesque, a single license will cost $34.95. So, if you need to do some quick edits to an image to draw attention to it — which is especially useful if you maintain a website — Picturesque is right for you. Once you see the results, you’ll know it was worth it.

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Posted in Mac, Review, Software | Tags: Picturesque