I started using PhotoImpact (PI) several years ago when it I got it as part of a purchase of a web editing software package upgrade. It was Ulead.com's version 5. I had been using several other high end graphics software packages and still do. But I have found over the years that PI is an excellent graphics software for web work and even for some print media projects.

I recently purchased PI's version 10. Unlike many software companies, when PI offers a new version, it is usually a meaningful upgrade, not just a way for them to get a few more bucks out of their customers. Version 8 was a dramatic change for the better and version 10 kicks it up many more notches.

Most of us never fully use a software package. We learn to use those functions that fit our usual projects and activities. We fail to really stretch ourselves to master the complete software package. We know that the software contains much more than we will ever learn or use.

When I purchased the PI v10, I decided to learn as much as possible about the product. I was determined to see just how far I could go with PI. To accomplish this goal, I searched the web for product support sites managed by users - by far the best teachers. I found the PhotoImpact Resource Center (PIRC Network) and the PhotoImpact Beginner's Workshop (BW).

I joined the BW and started on the 96 project "course." I cannot say enough good about this "user group." They start with the very basics. As an experienced PI user, I knew how to use most of the functions in the earliest projects. Quite to my surprise, I found new ways to do things that I was doing daily and those have already paid off as time savers which helps my bottom line. One does not have to be an artist to use this product or to make it through the BW projects.

Adobe Photoshop's current version retails for $649.00. CorelDRAW Suite (which includes CorelPhotoPaint) retails for $399.00. PhotoImpact10 retails for $89.99. If you want to do some really great photo and graphics editing and organizing or even your own web graphics work, PI is a way to go without being a graphics super pro, a software guru, or an accomplished artist. And you will not break the bank in getting started. (If you do purchase PI, get it on disk rather than the download. You will get a lot of free goodies that do not come with the download.)

Below are some of the projects I have completed in the BW. All of these have been really simple to do because the tutorials used to get them done are very well written and illustrated. As a former technical writer and technical publications manager, I must praise these tutorials and the organization that makes them available FREE!!

Note!! All graphics on this page are copyright Dean Hampton 2004-2005 and may not be used any way for any purpose without written permission.