AKVIS News 2011

December 13, 2011
AKVIS NatureArt v.4.0: Create A Fire At Your Fingertips!

AKVIS NatureArt has been updated to version 4.0!

The software lets you imitate the magnificence of natural phenomena on your digital photos. With NatureArt anyone can be a magician! With this program you can change the mood of a photo by applying your imagination and become a master of fire, thunder, and lightning.

NatureArt is available as a standalone program as well as a plugin for Photoshop and other graphics editors.

The software offers 8 nature effects: Rain, Sun, Water, Lightning, Clouds, Frost, Fire, and Ice. From these eight effects you can create an even wider variety of natural phenomenon: you can make snow from rain, transform the sun into the moon or a star, etc.

In Version 4.0 the Fire effect, for Home Deluxe and Business licenses, has been improved. It has been completely changed with new parameters available on the Settings Panel.

This effect lets you add flames to an image - create a fire over an object or make flaming text. The new fire in NatureArt looks more realistic and more magical at the same time.

You can light a torch, make flames spring forth from your fingertips, create a flaming sword or a fire ball, and produce a stunning advertising poster by adding dramatic flaming text. Now the power of fire is under your control!

The Fire effect offers a number of ready-to-use presets. It's easy to add a fire on a photo: just select an area of the effect and choose one of the presets or adjust settings as you like.

The new presets have been added also to the Sun and Lightning effects.

Also, the new version adds the possibility to apply effects to a transparent area.

Download NatureArt v.4.0 for Windows and Mac and try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users of NatureArt can upgrade to version 4.0 for free!

The software sells for $72 USD for Home version (either Plugin or Standalone, 6 effects), $129 USD for Home Deluxe (Plugin and Standalone, 8 effects), $189 USD for Business (Plugin and Standalone, 8 effects, for commercial use). Consult the comparison table for more details about license types and versions of the software.

November 22, 2011
AKVIS ArtSuite v.7.5: New Festive Frames For Your Photos!

AKVIS ArtSuite is an impressive collection of versatile frames and effects for decorating your photos. ArtSuite makes it easy to give a photo an original look, and to add elegance and style to a portrait in Windows and Mac. Available as a standalone product and a plugin for Adobe Photoshop, ArtSuite lets you apply an endless number of creative effects.

The software helps you to decorate digital photos, create original postcards, personalized desktop wallpapers, and much more. Experiment with your photos – convert a photo into a B&W image and add a sepia effect, replace colors on an image, or add a texture so that the image looks like as if it were drawn on a canvas, brick wall, corrugated paper, and other surfaces.

The program contains many templates and texture samples that can be used to create a virtually limitless variety of options for generating frames.

The frames samples that come with ArtSuite can be easily tailored to your particular photo. You can create a frame with ragged edges, scratched surface, a page curl, etc. It can be a wooden frame with figured carving or a frame with an ornament.

Now the collection of the frames in ArtSuite becomes even richer!

In Version 7.5:

• New patterns and textures have been added to the program's Library. Most of them are festive (holiday) patterns.

  The built-in Library has been reorganized. Now it offers new groups under Classic: "Nature", "Post Stamps", and under Pattern: "Halloween", "Christmas & NY", "Happy Birthday", "St. Valentine", etc.

  The new version offers an improved way to use the Library: now you can select a group and a texture included in the Library or load a custom pattern right in the Settings Panel.

  The new patterns are available in both editions (plugin and standalone), for all types of licenses, and can generate various frames.

Also, in the new version:

• Added the new color scheme of the Hints Panel.
• Improved compatibility with Mac OS X Lion.
• Added compatibility with Adobe Photoshop Elements 10, for the plug-in version.
• Fixed error in the Smoothness parameter of the Glamour effect, and other minor bugs.

Registered users of ArtSuite can upgrade to version 7.5 for free! Download the new version and install it. Your license will work.

You can download AKVIS ArtSuite v.7.5 here, in versions for Windows and Mac, and try all features during the evaluation period! You can test all ArtSuite patterns and frames during the trial period free of charge.

The software sells for $49.00 USD for Home license for the Plugin, $69.00 USD for Home license for the Standalone program (more features), $89.00 USD for Home Deluxe (Plugin and Standalone, all features), $97.00 USD for Business (Plugin and Standalone, all features) for commercial use). Please consult the comparison table for more details about license types and versions of ArtSuite.

October 25, 2011
AKVIS Chameleon v.7.5: Collage Creation Software! GPU Support. Bugs Fixed.

AKVIS Chameleon has been updated to version 7.5.

It is an efficient tool for photo collage creation. This ingenious software makes the process easy and entertaining. Earlier one had to thoroughly select an object before pasting it into a new background; with this software this tedious part of the workflow is no longer a burden. You can concentrate on the creative part and forget about complicated selection techniques. With AKVIS Chameleon you can have fun in making photo collages!

Using one of four modes of collage creation in the program (Montage, Chameleon, Blend mode, or Emersion mode), you'll be able to create seamless montages that automatically smooth edges, adjust pasted images to a target color range like a chameleon, make the object semi-transparent dissolving the pasted image in the background, orient difficult objects.

The new version offers support for GPU acceleration that significantly speeds up image processing.

Some minor bugs have been fixed. The program has become more stable.

The lists of Recent Files have been added for both background and foreground images.

AKVIS Chameleon is available for Windows XP, Vista, Win 7 and Mac OS X 10.4-10.7 (Lion), both 32 and 64 bit, in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plugin to image editors.

Test the software for 10 days free of charge!

Download AKVIS Chameleon v.7.5 here.

Registered users of v.5-7 can upgrade to the new version for free.
Just download the program, reinstall it and re-activate using your serial number.

Only if you have an older version (v.1-4) you will have to pay for an upgrade $15.00 for Home version, $60.00 for Business variant.

October 13, 2011
AKVIS MakeUp v.2.0: Portrait Retouching Software. New Effects!

AKVIS MakeUp has been updated to version 2.0!

AKVIS MakeUp improves portraits and adds glamour to photos, giving them a professional look.
The software automatically smooths small defects on the skin, making it radiant, beautiful, pure and even as you can see on artistic images. It is amazing how much a good complexion adds to rejuvenating and freshening up a look!

In Version 2.0:

• Version 2.0 adds creative effects (Glamour Glow and Vignette) which help to change the mood of your picture and make it look more magical, romantic, or dramatic.

  Glamour Glow adds a soft glow effect by creating a blurred layer above the image. When these layers are blended together it results in a surreal appearance. The effect gives a feeling of elegance and grace, and even dreaminess.

  The Vignette effect lets you lighten or darken the edges and draws your attention towards the central part of the image.

  Read more about the effects here.

• Also, the new version offers support for GPU acceleration that significantly speeds up image processing.

  You can now improve your photos much more quickly!

• New ready-to use presets have been added. The presets contain the settings of all three tabs (Smoothing, Correction, and Effects).
  The presets can be applied in their initial version or can be modified. They help you get started on your project sooner and save you time. The presets are also helpful when working in the batch processing mode, when you need to process a series of images automatically.
• Added new languages to the program interface and the Help files. Now MakeUp is available in 8 languages: English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Japanese.

AKVIS MakeUp is available in two versions – as a standalone program and as a plugin to a photo editor, for Windows and Mac. The new version is compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 Lion.

The plug-in version works with Adobe Photoshop, Photoshop Elements, Corel Paint Shop Pro, etc.

Download AKVIS MakeUp v.2.0 and try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users of MakeUp can upgrade to version 2.0 for free! Just download the new version and install it. You do not need to re-activate it, your license is working.

The program sells for $39 USD for Home version (either Plugin or Standalone), $49 USD for Home Deluxe (Plugin and Standalone), $72 USD for Business (Plugin and Standalone, for commercial use). Please consult the comparison table for more details about license types and versions of MakeUp.

September 13, 2011
AKVIS Coloriage v.8.0: One-Click Image Colorization. Play With Colors!

We have released the new version of AKVIS Coloriage, image recoloring software!

AKVIS Coloriage works with colors: it adds color to black and white photos and sketch drawings, replaces colors in color images, creates a sepia effect, and even removes "red eye". It also offers selective desaturation and selective colorization. The software lets you experiment with the color of your clothes or a car. You can play around with the interior design of your living room or try out new colors for your eyes and hair. Coloriage changes the world in your images.

AKVIS Coloriage combines sophisticated algorithms and simple usage. It is clear and simple as a children's coloring book. It turns work into play. Just draw a few strokes to indicate which objects should be colorized. The program recognizes borders, applying color based on the given lighting, the play of shadows, or folds of clothing.

The software creates natural-looking colorization in a quick and entertaining manner. It works equally well for coloring portraits, landscapes, fashion, and still life. The skin, sky, verdure, and tree color patterns help you to select realistic colors for your picture.

AKVIS Coloriage is available as a standalone product and a plugin for Adobe Photoshop and other editors on Windows and Mac.

In Version 8.0:

• Added support for GPU (graphical processing unit) acceleration that significantly speeds up image processing!
  The new GPU option (in the program's Preferences) is only active if a computer has an appropriate video card. The image processing speed depends directly on a video card.
• Added support for selections made in the graphics editor (to the plugin version). A selection made in the graphics editor will be transferred to the plugin and displayed as the outline made with the Keep Color Pencil.
• Improved compatibility with Mac OS X Lion.
• Added the list of Recent Files which is visible by right mouse clicking on the Open Image button.
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog for loading and saving files.
• Fixed bugs, etc (see the list of changes).

Download AKVIS Coloriage v.8.0 and try all of its features for free during the evaluation period!

Registered users of Coloriage can update their version for free.
Download the new version and re-activate with your key.

August 31, 2011
AKVIS HDRFactory V.2.0: HDR Images From Your Photos. An Effect For Any Taste!
Get Amazing Results With The New Styles And Presets

AKVIS HDRFactory has been updated to version 2.0! It is a versatile program for creating High Dynamic Range images and making photo correction. The software lets you create an HDR image from a series of shots or from one single photo.

The name of the program can be taken literally, as AKVIS HDRFactory is a real workshop for the production of fascinating HDR images. With HDRFactory you can come very close to reality and even go beyond it by creating stylized images with fabulous colors and unique effects.

The software can also imitate the HDR effect using only one photo that is useful if you don't have a series of images with different exposures. Just load a single image into AKVIS HDRFactory and admire the result!

In Version 2.0:

• Added the new Effects tab with the parameters that let you refine the look of your photos even further.
  Now the software offers a wide range of effects to fit any taste!

  You can adjust the mood of a photo by changing its color temperature or tint. You can create a realistic effect or go for something more creative and stylish. You can also add a glow to your image for a glamorous touch. You can apply a soft fade vignette to your photo. This is useful when you want to draw attention to particular subjects or objects in your photo, or just to create the perfect mood.

• Added new ready-to-use Presets which are available in all three tabs (HDRI, Adjustment, and Effects) and contain all settings of these tabs. Now the program offers 34 presets!
  The presets can be applied in their initial version or can be modified. First you can try AKVIS presets and than create your own exclusive variations. It is possible to save your own presets to use them in the future.
• Added the Preset Preview window. Now, when moving a cursor over a preset in the drop-down list, the quick result appears in the quick preview window over the image window. It saves you time and makes the selection of the presets easier.
• The Post Processing parameters have been hidden and can now be opened by clicking on a triangle button, right to the HDRI/Adjustment/Effects tabs.
• Added the possibility to adjust Image View Modes (various options for displaying the original and processed images, "before" and "after" states). The software now demonstrates more flexibility.
• Added the possibility to rotate an image left or right by 90 degrees (to the standalone version).
• ...and other changes.

The program supports images in the JPEG, TIFF, BMP, PNG, and RAW formats (including DNG files).

AKVIS HDRFactory is available for Windows XP, Vista, Win 7 and Mac OS X 10.4-10.7 (Lion), in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plug-in to image editors.

Download AKVIS HDRFactory v.2.0 for Mac and Windows.
You can try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users can upgrade to version 2.0 for free.

August 23, 2011
AKVIS Magnifier v.5.0: New Features, GPU Support, and Other Major Improvements

AKVIS Magnifier has been updated to version 5.0! The software resizes digital images without any loss in quality.

With Magnifier you can obtain a large, high quality picture from a smaller one, hence the program's name. It can increase an image by dozens of times with no artifacts or halos! You can quickly reduce a photo to put on the internet or send to friends. When resizing an image, Magnifier restores edges and details.

The new version of Magnifier offers a variety of updates, new features and interface improvements.

In Version 5.0:

• Added support for GPU (graphical processing unit) acceleration that significantly speeds up image processing!
  The new GPU option (in the program's Preferences) is only active if a computer has an appropriate video card. The image processing speed depends directly on a video card.
• Added the new Remove Artifacts parameter to the Upsize group. It lets removing defects that appear when resizing images.
• Added the possibility to switch between two interface modes: Express and Advanced. In Express mode, only the necessary parameters are shown, so that you will not get lost in the features but still will receive a good result. Switching to Advanced mode opens all parameters available in the program.
• Added the possibility to adjust Image View Modes (various options for displaying the original and processed images, "before" and "after" states). The buttons to manage the workspace view are available at the bottom part of the left panel.
• Added Batch Processing to the standalone version (formerly was available only in the plugin, as a Photoshop action) that is useful when resizing a lot of photos.
• Improved compatibility with Mac OS X Lion.
• Added support for RAW files.
• ...and some other changes.

Download AKVIS Magnifier v.5.0 and try all of its features for free during the evaluation period!

Registered users can upgrade to the newest version for free! Download the new version and re-activate with your key.

AKVIS Magnifier can work independently as a standalone program as well as a plugin to Adobe Photoshop and Photoshop Elements. During the test period you can try both editions and choose the license you like.

Attention! Unlike other AKVIS plugins (which are available in Filter menu), you will find AKVIS Magnifier plugin in Automate menu of Photoshop. To call AKVIS Magnifier plugin in Adobe Photoshop select the menu item File -> Automate -> AKVIS Magnifier; in Adobe Photoshop Elements use the command: File -> Automation Tools -> AKVIS Magnifier.

July 27, 2011
AKVIS ArtWork v.6.0: Color Your World in Pastels!

AKVIS ArtWork is a perfect virtual artist designed to imitate different painting techniques. You can create a piece of art out of any digital photo: an oil portrait of your friend, a landscape watercolor painting, a funny poster with your dog or even an impressive linocut print to decorate your bedroom. The transformation of a digital photo into a painting happens before your very eyes, so you can follow the birth of a work of art in real time!

In Version 6.0:

• New painting style - Pastel - which bridges the gap between painting and drawing. The pastel sticks or pencils form soft velvety strokes with subtle edges which can be smeared with your fingers. A distinctive feature of the pastel technique is the "glimmer" of colors in the form of small specks. Unlike paints, pastels don't cover the whole surface. The small gaps left uncovered let the background paper color show through the strokes and increase the general color effect of the painting.

  The Pastel effect comes with nine ready-to-use presets which will help you create pastel drawings in a variety of styles: from sketches made with short strokes (as if with a thin pastel pencil) to drawing made with soft delicate strokes. The presets can be applied "as is" or be modified. You can also use the Stroke Direction tool to add your own creative touch by changing the direction of the strokes and the Smudge tool to improve your result by manually refining irregularities after processing.

  Attention: the Pastel style is only available under Home Deluxe and Business licenses. Please consult the comparison table for more details about the license types.

• New color scheme of the Hints Panel: a white font on a gray background. If you prefer the old style (a navy/black font on a yellow background), you can change the Hints Panel mode in the Preferences.
• Added Batch Processing to the standalone version (formerly was available only in the plugin, as a Photoshop action).

  Batch processing is useful when dealing with a lot of photos. For example, you can create cartoons from your home videos.

• Added support for RAW files (CRW, CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, PEF, etc. - see the full list here).
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog for loading and saving files.
• Improved compatibility with Mac OS X Lion.

Download AKVIS ArtWork 6.0 (for Windows and Mac) and try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users can upgrade to version 6.0 for free. Just download the program and reinstall it.

If you want to buy the upgrade from Home (Plugin/Standalone) to Home Deluxe license, by paying the difference in prices (57 USD), click here.

July 6, 2011
AKVIS NatureArt v.3.0: New Ice Effect, New Presets for Clouds, and Other Improvements

AKVIS NatureArt has been updated to version 3.0! It is an excellent tool for imitating the magnificence of natural phenomena on your digital photos. With NatureArt anyone can be a magician. The software lets you change the mood of a photo by applying your imagination and become a master of fire, thunder, and lightning. NatureArt is available as a standalone program as well as a plugin for Photoshop and other graphics editors. Read more about the program.

In Version 3.0:

• Added new Ice effect which lets you cover any surface in ice. You can freeze a lake or a pond even in summer, decorate your Christmas pictures, create ice sculptures. The new effect is available under Home Deluxe and Business licenses.
• Added 7 ready-to-use presets to the Clouds effect.
• Added support for RAW files (CRW, CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, PEF etc - see the full list here).
• Added the list of Recent Files.
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog (for loading and saving files).
• Fixed bugs.

Download NatureArt v.3.0 (in Mac- and Windows-versions) and try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users of NatureArt can upgrade to version 3.0 for free!

June 21, 2011
AKVIS MakeUp v.1.0: Create Your Ideal Portrait!

We are glad to announce the release of our new software - AKVIS MakeUp v.1.0!

AKVIS MakeUp improves portraits and adds glamour to photos, giving them a professional look.

The software automatically smooths small defects on the skin, making it radiant, beautiful, pure and even as you can see on artistic images. It is amazing how much a good complexion adds to rejuvenating and freshening up a look!

Just open a portrait with AKVIS MakeUp and click on the Run button. The software will retouch and freshen up the skin without changing other aspects of the photo.

There are two workspace modes – Express and Advanced. In Express mode you can do the correction with a single click using the default settings, while in Advanced mode you can choose the tone of the skin more precisely using the eyedropper tool and play with more parameters to find the golden mean between glamour and authenticity.

In Advanced mode you can achieve special effects, for example - High Key Lighting, which blows out harsh shadows and thus removes small imperfections and the shadows under the eyes. The features of a face become well-defined and the portrait appears in the best light.

The software is ideal for processing marriage photographs or graduation party photos. On such special occasions people try to achieve a perfect result – flawless portraits of the main participants.

Thanks to the Batch Processing feature, you won't need to process every single picture, but just apply the chosen settings to the whole folder with the event shooting.

The software can also be useful to the fans of social networks and blogs for improving their profile pictures and adding a touch of glamour to their albums.

AKVIS MakeUp is available in two versions – as an independent program (standalone) and as a plugin to a photo editor, for Windows and Mac.

The functionality of the program depends on the license type. During the test period you can try all options and choose the license you like.

Download AKVIS MakeUp right now and try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

The brand new program sells for $39 USD for Home version (either Plugin or Standalone), $49 USD for Home Deluxe (Plugin and Standalone), $72 USD for Business (Plugin and Standalone, for commercial use). Please consult the comparison table for more details about license types and versions of MakeUp.

AKVIS MakeUp is available in the "all-in-one" AKVIS Alchemy Bundle.

Attention! The special discounts for our valued customers:
Those of our registered users who have bought at least one AKVIS program get a 20% discount on AKVIS MakeUp. The customers who have purchased all 16 AKVIS programs get a 50% discount on the new product! The offer is valid till July 31. Please write to us to get the discount.

June 6, 2011
AKVIS Noise Buster v.8.0: GPU Support and Other Improvements!

We have released a new version of AKVIS Noise Buster, noise suppression software.

Digital noise can be seen as artifacts and random red and blue pixels that compromise the smoothness of a photo. The program efficiently reduces both luminance and color noise in digital images without blurring the edges of objects. Photos remain sharp and crisp, while the unwanted artifacts disappear.

The software is available as a stand-alone program as well as a plug-in for Photoshop and other graphics editors.

In Version 8.0:

• Added support for GPU (graphical processing unit) acceleration that significantly speeds up noise suppression filtering!
  This lets you use the video card's processing power instead of CPU (central processing unit).

  The new GPU option in the program's Preferences is only active if a computer has an appropriate video card. The image processing speed depends directly on a video card.

• Added the Smart Blur tool which smoothes out grain and noise while preserving outlines and details. It works on the After tab, under Home Deluxe and Business licenses.
• Added the History Brush tool which restores areas to their original state. It works on the After tab.
• Added the new Edge Intensity parameter which makes edges and borders more visible without revealing noise.
• Improved the auto filtering algorithm.
• Added ready-to-use presets.
• Added Batch Processing to the standalone version (formerly was available only in the plugin, as a Photoshop action) that is useful when dealing with a lot of photos.
• Added support for RAW files (CRW, CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, PEF etc - see the full list here).
• Added the list of Recent Files.
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog (for loading and saving files).
• Fixed bugs.

Download AKVIS Noise Buster v.8.0 (for Windows and Mac).

You can evaluate it during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users can upgrade to version 8.0 for free. Just download the program, reinstall it and re-activate using your serial number.
Lost your key? You can find it in the Customer Room.

May 12, 2011
AKVIS ArtSuite v.7.0 with New Frames: Sports Frame Pack and Fabric Patterns!

AKVIS ArtSuite is an impressive collection of versatile frames and effects for photos. ArtSuite contains many templates and texture samples that can be used to create a virtually limitless variety of options for generating frames. The software lets you decorate digital photos, create original postcards, personalized desktop wallpapers, etc.

AKVIS ArtSuite is available as a standalone product and a plugin for Adobe Photoshop and other editors on Windows and Mac.

With ArtSuite Standalone it's not only possible to create frames from samples and texture patterns, but also by using hand painted frames - high quality images with holes of any shape, in which to place photos.

Some of these frames are included in the program (Default Pack, in the Library). Also, an additional free set of frames (Free Pack) is available for download.

We also offer, for an additional fee, themed frame packs of hand painted frames created by professional artists specifically for use in ArtSuite: the Wedding Pack, Travel Pack, Christmas Pack, and the St. Valentine Pack. These frames are intended for those who are interested in quality design photo frames.

In Version 7.0:

• The new Sports Pack has been released for the standalone version of ArtSuite. The brand new pack includes 75 hand painted, high quality frames.

  These are the ideal choice for framing your cherished sports memories. Relive the exciting moments of your children's sporting adventures, in little league baseball, soccer, football, martial arts, and more! Your son or daughter will be thrilled to hang them on their bedroom walls. Capture your memory of the winning moment of your favorite professional or college football team's championship.

  Take a look at the thumbnails of these new frames.

  You can buy the Sports frames for only $ 19 USD! Keep your memories alive!

• 105 new patterns have been added to the program's Library. Most of them are fabric patterns. They can be used with the Classic Frame.

  The Classic Frame offers a wide range of frame patterns - from classic wooden frames to festive Christmas decorations, fabric, brick and even animal world patterns (peacock feather, leopard skin, etc). Now the Classic Frame becomes even more rich!

  The new patterns are available in both editions (plugin and standalone) and can generate various frames. You can see them in the Library: just double-click on the texture sample in the frame's parameters.

• Added support for RAW files.
• Added the possibility to use OS File dialog (for loading and saving files).

You can download AKVIS ArtSuite v.7.0 here and try all of its features during the evaluation period!

Registered users of ArtSuite can upgrade to version 7.0 for free! Just download the new version and re-activate using your key.

We recommend you to download the free frame pack which does not require registration.

You can also purchase the additional themed frame packs to enrich your collection of frames! Now five themed packs are available.
Note: to use the additional frame packs (zip files) in ArtSuite just copy them into a folder selected in the program's preferences.

April 28, 2011
AKVIS Retoucher v.5.0: One-Click Photo Retouching Software!

AKVIS Retoucher has been updated to version 5.0! The software removes dust, scratches, stains and other defects, date stamps, irrelevant details (wires, refuse bins, etc) and unwanted objects (people, cars, etc). It reconstructs missing parts of a photo using the information of the surrounding areas, can extend an image's borders and restore torn photos. You can use the software to retouch old black and white scans as well as modern color photos.

In Version 5.0:

• Added the new Spot Remover tool. It removes small imperfections (stains, dust, etc) on an image with ease. You can also use it to retouch portraits, it "heals" skin problems with just a click! The new tool is available for Deluxe and Business licenses.
• Added support for RAW files (CRW, CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, PEF etc - see the full list here).
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog (for loading and saving files).
• Fixed small bugs.

Download AKVIS Retoucher v.5.0 and try all its features during the 10-day trial period!

The software is available as a stand-alone product and a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop and other editors on Windows and Mac.

Upgrade Information:

Registered users of Retoucher Home/Home Deluxe v.1.0-4.5 and Business v.4.0-4.5 can upgrade to v.5 for free. Just download the new version and re-activate it using your key. Your license will still be active.

The owners of Retoucher Business v.1.0-3.5 will need to pay $19.00 USD for an upgrade to the new version.

April 18, 2011
AKVIS Sketch v.12.5: Pencil Drawings From Photos, Comics and Cartoons From Videos!

AKVIS Sketch has been updated to version 12.5! The program converts digital photos into amazing pencil sketches and watercolor, charcoal, and pastel drawings. It's a wonderful tool for those who have always wanted to draw but didn't know how! The software is available as a standalone program as well as a plugin for Photoshop and other graphics editors.

In Version 12.5:

• Added Batch Processing to the standalone version (formerly was available only in the plugin, as a Photoshop action).

  Batch processing is useful when dealing with a lot of photos. This feature helps to quickly bring images to one style, or to create cartoons or comics from your home videos.

• Added support for RAW files (CRW, CR2, NEF, ARW, RW2, PEF etc - see the full list here).
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog (for loading and saving files).
• Fixed small bugs.

You can download AKVIS Sketch v.12.5 and evaluate it during the 10-day trial period!

Users who own versions 9-12 of Sketch can upgrade to v.12.5 for free. Just download the new version and re-activate it using your key.
If you have an older version (v.1-8) you will need to pay for an upgrade to the new version here.

April 8, 2011
AKVIS Enhancer v.12.0: New Image Processing Mode and Other Important Changes!

We are happy to announce the release of the latest version of the image enhancement software AKVIS Enhancer v.12.0. The program improves every part of an image and detects detail in underexposed, overexposed and mid tone areas of a photo with uneven exposure. AKVIS Enhancer is available for Windows and Mac in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plug-in to image editors.

In Version 12.0:

• Added the new Prepress mode that helps to adjust photos before printing or web publishing. Use this new mode to increase the sharpness of borders and the contrast of the image.
• Renamed the modes: Enhancer mode to Improve Detail, Smart Correction to Tone Correction.
• Focus and HDR modes were separated from AKVIS Enhancer and are now available as AKVIS Refocus and AKVIS HDRFactory (enriched with some new features). All registered users of Enhancer v.1.0-11.5 can get these new programs for free (for more detail see below).

  Now the software works in three modes: Improve Detail, Prepress, and Tone Correction. The main goal for these modes is the same - correction, but the methods and the results are quite different. Different photos require different approaches at correction. In many cases the modes complement one another.

Also in the new version:

• Added Batch Processing to the standalone version (formerly was available only in the plugin, as a Photoshop action).

  Batch processing of images is available for all modes of the program. It is useful when dealing with a lot of photos taken under the same conditions with identical camera settings. It saves you time and effort.

• Added support for RAW files (CRW, NEF, ORF, PEF etc - see the full list here).
• Added the list of Recent Files.
• Added the possibility to use the OS File dialog (for loading and saving files).

Download AKVIS Enhancer v.12.0 and try all its features during the 10-day trial period!

Information for registered users:

Users who own versions 10-11.5 of Enhancer can upgrade to v.12 for free. Just download the new version and re-activate it using your key.

If you have an older version (v.1-9) you will need to pay $ 29 USD for an upgrade to v.12.

Attention!
All registered users of Enhancer v.1-11.5 can get free licenses for the new programs AKVIS Refocus and AKVIS HDRFactory. Your license will be equal to Enhancer's license: for example, if you have Enhancer Home Deluxe, you will get Home Deluxe licenses for HDRFactory and Refocus.

The exception to this offer is the HDRFactory plugin.
Since the HDR mode was unavailable in the plug-in version of Enhancer (only in the standalone edition), the owners of the Home - Plugin license can't get HDRFactory for free (only the owners of these licenses: Home - Standalone, Home Deluxe, Business).

For Refocus, there are no limitation in licenses. All registered users of Enhancer v.1.0-11.5 can get Refocus for free in a corresponding license.

Click here to get a key for Refocus.
Click here to get a key for HDRFactory.

March 18, 2011
AKVIS HDRFactory v.1.0: Brighter Than Reality!

We are glad to announce the release of our new software - AKVIS HDRFactory v.1.0!

AKVIS HDRFactory creates HDR photos (images with high dynamic range) by combining several images of the same object taken with different exposure values. The result is an expressive contrasting image that reflects reality with a higher level of authenticity than a simple snapshot. By comparison, the human eye discerns many more nuances of color and brightness than any modern camera could record. The HDR technology endeavours to bridge the gap between reality as we see it and its photographic reflection.

The name of the program can be taken literally, as AKVIS HDRFactory is a real workshop for the production of fascinating HDR images.

In Version 1.0:

• Creating of HDR images from a series of shots taken with different exposure settings;
• Creating of Pseudo-HDR - the possibility to imitate the HDR effect on one single photo;
• Removing the so-called "ghosts" artifacts which sometimes appear when generating an HDR image from photos with moving objects (available for Home Deluxe and Business licenses).

The program supports images in the JPEG, TIFF, BMP, PNG formats and even opens RAW files which contain raw sensor data of digital cameras. Support for these files gives you even more flexibility in getting a result. HDRFactory works with RAW photo formats from the most popular digital cameras (CRW, NEF, ORF, PEF etc - see the full list here).

Download AKVIS HDRFactory v.1.0 for Mac and Windows.
You can try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

Special offer for our customers:
All registered users of AKVIS Enhancer Standalone (v.1.0-11.5) can get the new program AKVIS HDRFactory for free! Follow the link to get a key for HDRFactory.
Those who have other AKVIS programs can buy AKVIS HDRFactory with a 30% discount. Write to us and ask your coupon code! The discount is valid till May 1.

February 21, 2011
AKVIS ArtWork v.5.0: New Watercolor Style and Many Significant Improvements!

AKVIS ArtWork is photo to painting software, it is designed to imitate different painting techniques. ArtWork helps you to create a piece of art out of any digital photo.

Create an oil portrait of your friend, a landscape painting or a still life picture. Print the final painting on a color printer and frame it. Create a greeting card or a poster, and you have a wonderful present for friends and family!

In Version 5.0:

• New painting style - Watercolor - which lets you convert a photo into a watercolor painting.

  Watercolor is one of the most difficult painting techniques and it is hard for a machine to emulate this effect, but ArtWork handles this well. The watercolor pictures made with ArtWork are beautiful, airy, and light. You can achieve an effect very similar to the work of a real artist.

• Improved algorithm for the Oil style. The conversion to oil paintings has become faster and more exact. The program applies brush strokes in a new smart way. Results look even better than in previous versions.
• New Post-Processing tools (Smudge, Blur), available under the Deluxe and Business licenses, which help to improve the results made in Oil and Watercolor styles.
• New Animated Processing feature which lets you observe the photo-to-painting conversion in real time. Now the transformation of a picture into a painting happens before your eyes - you can follow the birth of a work of art in real time!
• New presets in Oil, Comics, and Pen&Ink styles. The ready-to-use presets help you start working and save your time.
• ...and other improvements (see the changes list).

Download AKVIS ArtWork 5.0 (for Windows and Mac). You can evaluate it during the 10-day trial period!

Registered users can upgrade to version 5.0 for free. Just download the program and reinstall it.

February 3, 2011
AKVIS ArtSuite v. 6.7 and New St.Valentine Frames!

AKVIS ArtSuite is an impressive collection of versatile frames and effects for photos. ArtSuite contains many templates and texture samples that can be used to create a virtually limitless variety of options for generating frames.

Available as a stand-alone product and a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop and other editors on Windows and Mac, AKVIS ArtSuite lets everyone decorate digital photos, create original postcards, personalized desktop wallpapers, etc.

With ArtSuite Standalone it's not only possible to create frames from samples and texture patterns, but also by using hand painted frames - high quality images with holes of any shape, in which to place photos. Some such frames are included in the program (Default Pack), and an additional free set of frames (Free Pack) is available for download.

Also, the themed packs of ready-to-use frames (for example, Wedding, Travel, Christmas) are available for an additional fee for use in ArtSuite, by adding in the program. These frames are created by professional artists specifically for ArtSuite and are intended for those who are interested in quality design photo frames.

New To Version 6.7:

• The new St.Valentine Frame Pack has been released for the standalone version of ArtSuite. This new pack includes 50 high quality hand painted frames decorated with hearts and flowers! This pack is designed for those in love and for those who want to make an original gift for their family and friends. These frames are sure to bring warmth to your most special photos.

  Take a look at the thumbnails of these new frames.

  Buy the Valentine frames for only $ 12 USD and make your sweethearts happy! Keep your memories alive!

• The list of Recent Files has been added to the program. It becomes visible by right mouse clicking on the Open Image button. The number of files is defined in the program's Preferences.
• The new version improves the transformation of photos in multiple hand-painted frames.

You can download AKVIS ArtSuite v.6.7 here and try all of its features during the evaluation period!

Registered users of ArtSuite can upgrade to version 6.7 for free! They can also purchase the additional themed frame packs or just download the free frame pack which does not require registration and can even be used during the evaluation period.

January 28, 2011
AKVIS Sketch v.12.0: Pencil Drawings From Photos. Now With Smudging Effect!

AKVIS Sketch has been updated to version 12.0. The program converts digital photos into amazing pencil sketches and watercolor, charcoal, and pastel drawings. It's a wonderful tool for those who have always wanted to draw but didn't know how. There is a wide variety of features and parameters to process the image to your preference.

In Version 12.0:

• Added the new Smudging parameter which creates the effect of smearing hatching in midtone areas without affecting the contour lines of the drawing. This technique looks like a result of rubbing across a drawing with a stump tool, smooth paper, or a finger. As the value of the parameter is increased, shading becomes similar to soft graphite. It is a fast and simple way to add a soft and blurred texture to a sketch.
• Improved algorithm for calculating semi-processed images: the result is simpler and more exact. The conversion can be stopped by pressing Esc or Stop button.
• Added the list of Recent Files, which is visible by right mouse clicking on the Open Image button.
• Fixed small bugs.

You can download AKVIS Sketch v.12 and evaluate it during the 10-day trial period! Sketch is compatible with Windows XP/Vista/Win 7 and Mac OS X 10.4-10.6. It is available as a standalone program as well as a plugin for Photoshop and other graphics editors.

Users who own versions 9-11 of Sketch can upgrade to v.12 for free.
If you have an older version (v.1-8) you will need to pay for an upgrade to v.12 here.

January 20, 2011
AKVIS NatureArt v.2.0: Winter Magic of New Frost Effect!

We have released the new version of AKVIS NatureArt.

The program lets you imitate the magnificence of natural phenomena on your digital photos. You can use the program to add some dramatic nature effects to images, for example by putting the sun or even a lightning bolt on them, and by adding rain or snow.
The same photo can look differently if we change the weather on it. The spirit of the scene changes dramatically - from a ferocious thunderstorm to an optimistic shiny day, from the woods in flame to a melancholic rainy scene. Nature effects have an impact on our mood and can be used to strengthen the impression from a picture.

Version 2.0 offers the new Frost effect which allows you to adorn an image with an openwork of ice crystals.
In nature frost appears on long thin objects during freezing weather. This gives an environment a fantastic look, sometimes almost surreal. Now you can add this beauty to your digital photos easily with AKVIS NatureArt!

In NatureArt you can choose from seven nature effects: Rain, Sun, Water, Lightning, Clouds, Fire, and Frost. But the list of possible uses is far greater. You can create a vast array of effect versions. Change the weather on a photo, illuminate a night sky with glistening stars, light up a dark landscape by adding sources of light, create a flaming text effect or even your own little tempest in a teapot.

Also, in the new version you can not only apply effects to digital photos; it's now possible to create new images. We have added the New Image dialog with a choice of default presets (postcards, posters, etc).
You can create nature scenes from scratch, such as converting a blank background into a sea view or a night sky with scattered, glistening stars. You can even create a unique picture by drawing with the help of the NatureArt's effects.

The new version also allows you to save the selection areas and the direction lines to a file (.nature format), and load them later. It makes experimenting with the program even easier.

Download NatureArt v.2.0 (in Mac- and Windows-versions) and try all features of the software during the 10-day trial period!

AKVIS NatureArt is available in two editions: as a plug-in to image editors and as a standalone program.

Owners of the previous versions can upgrade to the version 2.0 for free!