pparks1 said:
Dom said:
If you have ever used Photoshop CS5, you will realise what a whole lot more powerful and brilliant it is than the free programs other companies offer. Also a lot easier to use, and how many features there are included. I'd rather pay a grand and produce way better stuff than get something for free that will get you nowhere.

My 2 pence worth
The only reason I would differ on this opinion would be for those who simply feel that a tool like Photoshop would turn them into a graphic artist. Honestly, I think you need those skills up front and the software just enables that creativity.

However, I think there are a ton of people who blindly pirate photoshop and have it on their computer for their graphics needs...while the freebie applications and such could probably handle their workload easily.
I have used photoshop for weeks though, and am quite advancing in it. My goal for my workload is not just simple photo editing, but going from image recoloring to advanced photo manipulation. I know Photoshop is what I need. =)

fseal said:
Photoshop elemets is actually quite feature packed. For the price it's a great deal.

You should look at the feature list or a comparison to the full photoshop and see if there is really anything you would be missing or not.

I used elements for quite a while before getting the "real thing". There was even a small reduction in proce for upgrading that may make the cost of elements $0 in the end if you do update in a couple years after you get a job :)

[Edit] Though $200 for PS CS5 is an AMAZING deal. If that gives you full future upgrade rites, getting in now rather than later will save you $450 in the long run![/edit]
I have to agree that it looks like an awesome program for under 100 bucks, but it is missing some of the key features that makes Photoshop so great.

It is looking like I am going to have to get it full price though. =/

~Joshua~