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Last Updated:
Jan 20th, 2007 - 12:55:03 |
Microsoft Digital Image Pro (known widely as DIP) is a program that combines powerful features with an intuitive and easy to use interface suitable for users with computer literacy levels from beginner to advanced.
The most current edition - DIP2006 Suite (released August 2005) evolved from PictureIt! released in 1999. With each year, Microsoft has released several editions of each version catering to both a variety of skill level and need as well as budget. DIP 7 was first introduced in 2003 with successive releases of DIP9 and DIP10. DIP9 and 10 were also released as a Suite version which incorporates the DIP Library - image organizational software ideal for sorting both photograph and element collections. DIP2006 has been released as a standard and suite version. The Suite version has the full complement of tools and includes the organizational software while the standard version has reduced features.
Each successive version of DIP has demonstrated increased stability in operation however each tends to require larger amounts of RAM, requiring at least 512MB RAM despite the 256MB minimum recommended. 1GB of RAM or higher will ensure best performance.
DIP's greatest strength lies in its intuitive interface. It is widely regarded to have the easiest learning curve of the most popular programs. The interface has yet to change dramatically between versions meaning that upgrading versions does not require a new learning curve to familiarize with its operation. Many of the more complex tasks are automated or accomplished in fewer steps than required in some comparable programs without importantly, losing any power.
The ability to layer, and independently manipulate each layer, is essential in digital scrapbooking and this is a task that is simple in DIP.
DIP uses sophisticated selection tools to allow the manipulation of selected areas of an image.
DIP also includes the ability to automate and make manual adjustments using its photo editing tools which includes basic exposure, color and red eye correction, and more sophisticated abilities such as level and curve adjustments, color channel editing, dodge and burn, clone tool and more.
Another particular strength of DIP is the inclusion of over 200 art and texture effects with realistic rendering and the ability to use Photoshop compatible plug-in filters (8bf extension) to further extend the program's ability. DIP also has creative tools including stamps, paint, art and photo brushes, and designer edge and text effects.
DIP also includes an image gallery and over 3000 designer templates for both scrapbooking and other computer crafts such as greeting cards, calendars and more.
DIP is unable to use Photoshop or Paint Shop Pro brushes without a more complicated work around. If your preference lies with the more graphic style of digital scrapping which relies heavily on brush work and blending modes then this could be a disadvantage.
DIP is a deceptive program, its easy to use interface and plethora of automatic tools belies its powerful abilities when these features are breached. DIP is a comfortable program for beginners but will accommodate the growth of the user’s ability into an experienced and skillful digital scrapper.
For those looking to purchase Digital Image Pro recommended is either DIP10 Suite or DIP2006 Suite.
Cost: Medium (approx. RRP) US$99; AUS$149; UK30
Learning Curve: Low
Time Investment: Low
Flexibility: Medium
A downloadable trial version of MS Digital Image Pro 2006 is available HERE
Visit Microsoft's Digital Imaging Product Page HERE
SBB has over 100 tutorials for digital scrappers using DIP. Choose Digital Image Pro from the menu at left in this tutorials area.
Visit our active Digital Image Pro Forum HERE at SBB
© Copyright 2003-2005 by Scrapbook-Bytes; & original creator/s of tutorials/articles
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