New Plug-Ins From Alien Skin and Twisting Pixels

I've got an interesting mix of plug-ins today. One that is really practical and four other packages that provide really cool effects.

First up is Alien Skin's new Blow Up plug-in. This is the first time I've been really disappointed with something from Alien Skin. Not that the plug-in isn't useful, because it can be. And I have no doubt it works well. The problem is that it only works in Photoshop CS and higher and Photoshop Elements 3.0 and higher. The good news is that I told you a month ago about PhotoZoom Professional and it works as a standalone application. Until Alien Skin can find a way to make Blow Up work with a wider range of host programs, I just can't recommend it.

Now let's talk about the fun effects that do work just fine in every host program I've tested including good old Corel PHOTO-PAINT. They all come from a company called TwistingPixels.

First up is PixelCreation. If you are looking to add clouds, moons, stars or other sky elements to your images then you'll love this package. Next up is PixelPaper. These filters allow you to bend, fold, crumple, crinkle, burn, curl, rip and even more to the virtual paper of your image. PixelPack has only five filters, but they can all be put to good use. Add stains, turn a shape into "rock candy", texturize an image, turn text into a label or extrude text. Last but not least is PixelSampler. It is a free download so I know that immediately makes it more interesting. It is also quite useful for adding film effects such as black & white, contrast, duotone, monotone, grain, starlights, starpoints, tonal streaks, warmth or coolness to an image.

If those plug-ins aren't what you want, make sure to check out our plug-ins page where we list many more. Please let me know if you see a good plug-in that we don't have!

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