Taking into consideration that I am a student and first time user of both Photoshop and Alien Skin/Eye Candy software, (by this I mean I have never opened any version of either one), the only thing I can say is Wow! You gotta love this software! The 10 filters are backlight, bevel, brushed metal, chrome, extrude, glass, gradient- glow, motion trail & super star. I expected to have a lot of trouble finding my way around since I have only used InDesign CS2 and recently Fireworks up to this point, but I found Eye Candy 5 Impact extremely user friendly.
This is my first product review and I didn’t expect to have so much fun learning how to use it! I have repeatedly been up to the wee hours of the morning exploring and discovering new places and ways to apply the different techniques. My instructors have noticed the improvements in my designs and have asked how I manipulated and applied different effects. I promptly told them it was Eye Candy 5 Impact. If my grades are any indication as to whether they like the software, I would say they are impressed.
My favorite features of Eye Candy 5 Impact are that the filters quickly give you lots of control, (each one allows you to view and adjust the effect prior to saying ‘ok’) , and each one has lots of options within the 10 filters. There is endless diversity within this product. I also developed favorite filters because of the large collection within chrome, the easy integration of motion trail into my current projects and especially the directional/expansion controls of extrude. (really loved that one!) The software also came with a downloadable tutorial and an informational quick reference booklet with installation, setup, filter explanations, troubleshooting, etc.
After using Eye Candy 5 Impact a few times I experimented with the ‘save’ and ‘manage’ options under each filter. I found that I could also save the exact settings I used under each filter, (angle/degree, directional features, colors, etc.) with a name relevant to the current project or just something easy to remember.
My recommendation for this software is that if you already love Photoshop or if you’re just getting to know it, Alien Skin’s, Eye Candy 5 Impact will help you expand your skills and make your Photoshop experience even better. I have found it to be a great learning experience and an excellent source of inspiration. I have no doubt it will do the same for you.