Sharpen Details in Digital Photos with the Magic Sharpener Plugin

The installation of Magic Sharpener is typical for a Windows application. The only real decision that you have to make is selecting a directory in which to install the plugin. If you choose a directory that’s not already in the current path of your photo editor, you may need to add that path manually after the installation process. For more information, refer to these articles on installing third-party plugins in Paint Shop Pro and adding new plugins to Photoshop Elements 7.

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As mentioned previously, one very nice feature of this application is that you can sharpen or smooth details locally with the help of a brush-like tool that lets you "paint" across areas of the photograph that you want to modify. Not only is this nice for correcting technical flaws in specific areas of the photo without affecting others, but it can also be used to create some beautiful artistic effects in the photo.

Magic Sharpener lists for $29.95 on the Image Skill web site, and this price currently includes free future upgrades for registered users. This price is very much in line with competitive products that have similar capabilities.

When it comes to general sharpening capabilities of an entire digital photograph, Magic Sharpener performs about average when compared to other applications of a similar nature. However, the plugin really shines in the localized sharpening category, and it's a great tool for those who like to create customized depth of field and smoothing effects in images.

A free demo version of Magic Sharpener is available for download at the Image Skill web site, so take a few minutes and try out the plugin for yourself.