Which version of Photoshop is best for SL?

[Seven Overdrive]

I am wanting to upgrade my version of PS CS2 to CS5 and was wondering if the extended version was worth it.  I mostly use PS for various tasks related to SL and not much else.   Any opinions would be appreciated.

Thanks

[valerie Inshan]

I would suggest you test the trial version of CS5 before spending 199 bucks and see by yourself if it's worth purchasing. :smileywink:

http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop/buying-guide-upgrades.html

http://www.photoshopsupport.com/photoshop-cs5/free-trial/photoshop-cs5-free-trial.html

[Seven Overdrive]

Thanks Valerie.  I have tried the trial.  I do want to upgrade so I can continue to be eligible for future upgrade paths to newer versions.  I am just unsure if I need the extended version or not.  

[valerie Inshan]

I am using CS5 Extended, so yes, I would definately recommend you upgrade. It would be too long for me to detail every new features that I find really thrilling. This link highlights CS5's enhancements better than I would do and I totally agree with its content. As a side note, I don't use PS for SL but for my RL work everyday, I'm a graphic designer.

And yes, would it be only to be eligible for further updates, I believe it's worth upgrading now.

http://www.honeytechblog.com/10-exciting-new-features-of-photoshop-cs5-for-designers/

[Chosen Few]

The extended version allows you to paint directly onto 3D models.  That's the feature you'll get the most use out of in relation to SL.  There are lots of other great things in there as well, but the 3D painting is really the selling point for SL users.  It's well worth having.

[Seven Overdrive]

Since I am currently learning how to use Blender for SL, it is good to know that CS5 Extended will be of use with the 3D painting.  

Thank you for your insight.  I'm sold. :smileyhappy:

 

@Valerie - Thank you too.

[Morgaine Christensen]

I am not a graphics designer.  I only use CS5 Extended for SL and occasionally RL projects so am a hobbyist., but I know lots more than I did several years ago. 

I have been messing around with Blender a bit and can tell you I don't like how the textures are created in Blender. I find it too complicated and makes my brain hurt even more than learning to use Blender.  I can tell you the few times that I have messed with Sculpty  Blender .obj files in CS5 Extended, I had some issues with filling at the poles.  Even doing a complete layer fill didn't cover some parts of the pole.  Of course this is probably a user issue (me floundering around trying to learn).  The solution I came up with is create a base texture in Blender, save it as a .tga file, then bring it into the 3D painting mode and when merged down it covers perfectly.  You can recolor the base layer as needed and work from there.

So for me, it was worth the extra amount to go with the Extended version.