Full to Elements - what's missing?

[trunkguy]

I am a proficient user of Photoshop and am using CS2 on my work based machines and my Windows machine at home.

I have recently switched to an Apple iBook and am also investing in a new iMac and would like to use Photoshop without having to pay the full cost of the full software.

Before I spend out on elements for my Mac(s) could someone please let me know what's not in Elements that is in CS2 etc? Can I still add text effects etc to images? Will elements be able to open my archive of psd files?

[jburrows500]

I hope you're experience with Mac will be more positive than mine.. I bought a new 2.66 mac pro with 5gb of ram along with lightroom and final cut express and after using it for less than one month I sent it back... I went a Dell and havent looked back... If you are buying a new imac you can't beat the refubished prices.. As for software... I read Adobe's edu discounting policy and I think a dog would qualify.. If you have a kid in school between K-12th grade you qualify.. as do college students.. so you might find your answer there... good luck!

[way2close]

Here is a link that tells you what is in Photoshop that is not in Elements as well as what is in Elements that is not in Photoshop.

graphicssoft.about.com/.webloc

I have several Macs and use both Photoshop and Elements (started out in Elements and added Photoshop).

To answer the questions you asked, you will be able to do much the same work with text in Elements as you are used to. I have only opened psd filed created in Elements on my Mac in Photoshop, and they work fine. I suspect your question related to opening the psd files you created on your Windows machines. For that someone else will have to help. Those created on a Mac open with all their layers, and you can switch back and forth from one program to another with no problems. Macs traditionally open anything, but what Adobe has done, I am not sure. Hope this helps. Once you learn the few command-key changes, you should have little trouble using the Mac.

On the other hand, you will probably miss Photoshop, so think of saving up to take advantage of any discount offers they make down the line. Photoshop is, at the very least, like having Elements on steroids.

[GaryK]

Hi

One thing, Adobe sometimes lets you switch platforms for a very reasonable price.
If you have a registered version Photoshop, they may let you get a Mac version for a minimal outlay.

[Chuck S.]

Hi

One thing, Adobe sometimes lets you switch platforms for a very reasonable price.
If you have a registered version Photoshop, they may let you get a Mac version for a minimal outlay.

You may be able to upgrade to CS3 and switch platforms for just the upgrade cost of $199 US. I would certainly contact Adobe and pursue that option!

[Wendy]

Hi Trunkguy ...

... and welcome to the forum :)

There is quite a lot of difference between CS2 and Elements. Apart from things like the Pen Tool not being there you also have a lot less flexibility .. things like Layer Styles you can only use premade one ... you can't just make your own.

I really would suggest that you try out a demo before making up your mind ... it really depends on how extensively you use it :)

Wendy