I consider the photographs I take of people to be environmental portraits, even though there are no elaborate props or backgrounds in the images. I suppose I define "environmental" as adding a context to the photograph, or suggesting a lifestyle, interests, or relationships.

And when I'm taking photographs of people, less is definitely more. A...

Vertus, the graphics and imaging software division of Heligon, a technology
business specializing in image data interpretation, today announced the launch
of Fluid Mask 3 Public BETA. This latest version of Vertus' image editing
software is for rapid, powerful and intuitive masking and high-quality image
blending.



With improvements to the initial image processing time, Fluid Mask 3 users who
are operating multiple processors will realize increased speeds up to 40% faster
than the previous versions,. The result is a quicker transition from a base
image editing program, such as Adobe Photoshop, into Fluid Mask. Ultimately,
Fluid Mask significantly improves the overall efficiency of the image editing
process, from loading to the final cut-out.



With a more effective edge detection system, along with the improved "Smart
Blending" capability unique to Fluid Mask, this latest version makes separating
problem images, such as human hair and tree leaves, quick and easy. First there
is a slider, which allows the user to seamlessly switch between "Smart
Blending" and standard feather blending. Second, within focused areas,
the user may invoke special hair blending algorithms, which for the first time
automatically cuts out tricky hair such as highlights and hair with wide color
differences (e.g. black hair next to white hair against a grey background).



In addition to new blending and loading capabilities, Vertus has improved the
intuitive workflow of Fluid Mask 3 and added additional tools to the program.
These new features include:



· A new "Save Settings" option enables users to easily recall
edge detection, blending, and resolution options from previous sessions, eliminating
the need to continually reprogram these options when working with batches of
pictures;

· The "Color Work Space" palette now includes a "Color
Sampler" which enables users to select specific colors from an image and
see where else within that image the same color appears. Also available in the
"Color Work Space", the new 2-D color map enables more accurate
color selection;

· Several new brush tools and the improved "Localized Edge Detection
System" enable users to perform more detailed edge finding and more refined
blending;

· A new "Patch" system allows users to make changes affecting
a selected localized region without affecting the rest of the image.

· "Patches" can be easily selected with a highlighting brush
tool rather than relying on a standard box shaped patch. Once a "Patch"
has been selected, users can call up the most popular editing options with a
simple right click of the mouse.

· Users are now able to launch a test rendering of the localized patch,
and toggle between the working image and a rendering of the final mask;

· Improved intuitive help features such as "Best of Breed Help"
offers XML help files and direct links to Fluid Mask tutorials, enabling easy
access to hands-on demonstrations.



Fluid Mask 3 Public BETA is currently available for Windows XP & Vista;
a Mac version will follow shortly. Fluid Mask 3 will continue to function as
a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop CS2, CS3 & Elements; and for the first time
will also work in stand alone mode for image formats that accept transitions
to transparency in 8 bit RGB color -- e.g. TIFF and PNG. Users working
on tablet style computers and peripherals, such as the Wacom Tablet, should
note that Fluid Mask 3 contains a new pressure sensitivity control that can
regulate brush size.



Users can download a free 30 Day Trial of Fluid Mask 3 BETA by visiting the
Vertus website at http://www.vertustech.com.
During the BETA phase, Fluid Mask 3 will be available for $199 US.

...

Hawk Mountain Paper 2007 Inkjet Print Contest



Hawk Mountain Papers holds a print contest every year, encouraging inkjet printers
from all over the world to submit their best inkjet prints on Hawk Mountain
paper. The grand prize winner receives $500 in Hawk Mountain paper with many
category winners receiving $200 each.



Winning...

Technology Paves the Path

by Ron Leach

A decade ago pundits were describing the business of photography as a "sunset
industry," suggesting that the "smart money" should look elsewhere
for innovation and profits. Then came the digital revolution which not only
changed the manner in which we capture, share...