pete61
Junior Forum Member
Posts: 235 
Open to constructive criticism of photos: Yes
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Post by pete61 on Jun 2, 2021 20:42:16 GMT
DXO have released a new version of the NIK Collection with new and upgrade discounts up to June 30. Detailed information can be found at this link: nikcollection.dxo.com/whats-new/? |
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Post by Sepiana on Jun 2, 2021 21:08:11 GMT
Hi Pete,
Thanks for the heads-up! Got it, installed it, . . . now time to play with it.
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Post by hmca on Jun 3, 2021 15:46:36 GMT
For those who have upgraded, could you share your thoughts on the upgrade? What new features do you feel are most significant? So far I have been very happy with 3 so wonder if upgrading is worth the price.
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Post by hmca on Jun 3, 2021 17:57:27 GMT
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Post by tonyw on Jun 3, 2021 18:27:12 GMT
I gave it a try and must admit I did like the better user interface in Silver Efex Pro3 which is the one I use the most. Much more like what I'm used to in PS and LR. And they have added Clearview to Silver Efex which works really well even if there is no haze by adding contrast to areas lacking contrast. Will have to play some more but so far I like it what I've tried (although I rarely use the other apps in the collection ...  Tony |
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Post by hmca on Jun 5, 2021 15:21:02 GMT
Thanks for your post above, Tony. It is helpful to read about what you liked in the upgrade to SE. It is my preferred software for B/W conversion. I use CE on most of my color images so will keep an open mind and plan on signing up for some of their upcoming webinars on the new features. |
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Post by BuckSkin on Jun 6, 2021 7:47:35 GMT
I am still using the old free NIK.
I do have some version of DxO NIK in my PhotoLab 2 Elite; but, I cannot see a speck of difference between it and my old free NIK.
I seldom use NIK via DxO as I don't like how it plays out in my way of doing things; I had much rather wait and use it in Elements or one of my other finishing programs.
PhotoLab 2 has ClearView incorporated in the customize tools and it works wonders on anything that needs it.
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Post by Sepiana on Jun 9, 2021 18:57:49 GMT
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Post by hmca on Jun 9, 2021 20:19:39 GMT
Thanks for sharing, Sepiana. Very helpful. I am watching their videos but haven't downloaded the trial....
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pete61
Junior Forum Member
Posts: 235
Open to constructive criticism of photos: Yes
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Post by pete61 on Jun 9, 2021 22:12:12 GMT
I downloaded the trial version NIK Collection 4 to evaluate before deciding on whether to upgrade or not. The download seemed successful, but after installing strange things happened. For example only 3 of the 9 NIK modules showed up on Photoshop's Filters Menu, while selecting a NIK module from Window's Main Menu would display an error message that "the shortcut is no longer valid". I finally deleted both the installation and the downloaded install file. I rebooted the PC and downloaded a new version of the install file. This time upon installation everything worked as it should with no bizarre incidents.
I do like to use Silver Effects for B/W work and am impressed with with this latest Pro 3 version. The Clearview slider is a welcome addition for dehazing/clarity, as are the new options for adding grains that emulate the original B/W films on which they are based. This module also seems to respond to slider changes a little faster than previously.
My other favorite NIK module is Color Effects Pro for fine tuning images with creative effects. I haven't noticed any significant changes or upgrades to this component, nor to any of the other modules with the exception of Viveza.
Viveza 3 is DXO's new version of this color and tone editing module. I rarely used the previous version as there have been other superior editing tools from other vendors. Viveza 3 however has many improvements, notably with respect to using Control Points that include new luminosity and chrominance masking controls.
It's disappointing that NIK Collection 4 is essentially limited to changes in the Viveza and Silver Effects modules. I'm hesitant about purchasing the upgrade version, but will take a longer look at Viveza 3 before making a final decision.
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Post by Sepiana on Jun 16, 2021 16:37:40 GMT
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Post by fotofrank on Jun 16, 2021 17:15:03 GMT
I have been using the NIK collection 4 on my MAC for a few weeks and only encountered one issue - Perspective Efex would not open a Raw or DNG file. That issue is resolved.
Following the instructions on how to do the update worked flawlessly.
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Post by Sepiana on Jun 16, 2021 23:22:28 GMT
fotofrank, Glad to hear this new version solved the Perspective Efex issue. It will be interesting to see which other issues will also be fixed.
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Post by pontiac1940 on Jul 31, 2021 3:18:30 GMT
Instead of starting a new thread, I am asking a very basic question here about Nik Collection4. I had an old free version of Silver Efex installed a few years ago and really liked the conversions and assorted effects. So my question is: In a 40 words or less (or five bullet points  ) what key features will I find useful?- I am interested in sharpening, but not unhappy with ACR and/or PSE sharpening (USM). I've tried other sharpening addons (plugs ins) and could find no real advantages. I am impressed with the sharpness of some moon photos posted here.
- I like B&W conversions and as noted, often used the Silver Efex. I like using gradient map for B&W conversions but Silver Efex had cool options.
You have seen my photos: flowers, birds, some scenery, critters etc
What say yea? What are the highlights for you?
Thanks,
Clive
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Post by hmca on Jul 31, 2021 16:04:36 GMT
pontiac1940, as far as sharpening, have you tried high pass sharpening? I just did a quick google search and while there were quite a few tuts available this one stood out to me because his subject was an owl.  It is done in an older version of PS but I think you would be able to do the same with your version of PE......except maybe for the smart filter. Although I have explored other options for B/W conversion SE is my favorite. I do like the changes they have made and have only just begun to explore them. Color Efex.....use on most color images. Viveza.....need to watch some more videos on this as I never took advantage of it in the previous versions. Have heard good things about using it for targeted adjustments from people whose opinion I trust. Don't take too long to make up your mind as their promotion ends shortly. Perhaps someone else will add their thoughts.
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) what key features will I find useful?
It is done in an older version of PS but I think you would be able to