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Versatile photo compressor

Image Compressor 2008 lets users shrink large images' file size without compromising quality. In addition, this simple program provides other image-altering tools to make a complete package.

Image Compressor 2008's interface features a crowded collection of command icons and a few smaller windows showcasing image details. Luckily, the program first offers a fantastic walk-through tutorial. In addition, users can consult an excellent Help file. Compressing files was surprisingly simple and involves selecting a photo, clicking on the Compression icon and choosing a destination. The file (or files if you choose Batch Compression) is compressed in a matter of seconds. … Read more

JPEG conversion tool

ReaJpeg provides users with a fast way to make JPEGs, but also offers added features. With a simple layout and excellent results, users will love how their photos look after using this program.

The program's interface is incredibly intuitive, since it breaks all actions down into the most basic form and leads users through the process. However, there is a generous Help file available to those needing more instruction. Converting an image to JPEG requires almost no work. Users simply open a photo from their collection and then hit the Save JPEG button. The file is instantly converted. While … Read more

Fun with brushes

Artweaver is an art supply store and a blank canvas all rolled up into one. With it, you can create your own masterpieces and experiment with the multitude of built-in tools. Choose from paint and calligraphy brushes, pens, pencils, crayons, and even sponges and brushes made to mimic famous artists like Van Gogh.

Artweaver's interface is very similar to Photoshop's. Creative professionals and hobbyists who are familiar with Photoshop will be able to navigate their way through its palettes and windows with no problem. This helped us get up and running with the program easily and made our … Read more

Simple image conversion

RentASoft Image Converter is a utility that allows users to quickly and easily convert images from one format to another. The program's intuitive and attractive interface makes it a breeze to use.

Using the program is as easy as right-clicking on any photo on your computer. Select "Convert image to..." and the program's interface opens. Users can choose from among 14 different file types, then click Convert, and it's done. Users can also specify where the new image is saved if they desire, and the ICO file type allows users to specify what size icons … Read more

Change default screenshot format

Mike in Michigan wrote in complaining that while he loves the easy way to take screenshots in OS X, he didn't like that they saved as PNGs. Not that he has anything against PNGs, mind you, but most of the sites he visits let him embed JPEGs only. Well Mike, we can help.

Command-Shift-3 is the command that takes a screenshot in OS X (or Command-Shift-4, if you just want part of the screen). It saves the image as a PNG. In Mac OS X 10.4 and later, you can change the default screenshot format at the command … Read more

Quick screen captures

AT Screen Thief provides users with a fast tool for capturing screen images. With fast capturing control and easily saved images, this is a perfect tool for users tired of hot-key screencaptures.

The program's interface is simple enough that most users will not need the Help file, though it is there for any missteps. With a simple menu and click-and-drag control, users will be making screenshots in minutes. The program begins when users right-click on its icon in the tray and select either Capture Desktop or Capture Active Window. Either way, a small window opens up that acts as … Read more

Basic image conversion

Image TIFF Jpeg Text to Pdf Converter led us to believe that this program converts image files, JPEGs, and TIFFs, as well as TXT files to PDFs. That is not the case. The program can convert JPEGs or TIFFs to PDFs, but does not support TXT files.

Image TIFF Jpeg Text to Pdf Converter's interface is bare bones but functional. The program does what it is set out to do, but there is no flair at all. The program allowed us to convert multiple files at a time, but produced a PDF of each file, rather than a PDF … Read more

Easy photo tool

Batch Picture Resizer helps you change the size of batches of snapshots, ranging in size from one picture to 1,000. With an easily managed layout and quick, effective results, this is a great tool for photographers.

Batch Picture Resizer holds your hand through its processing, laying out every step of the process clearly and intuitively. You should not need to take a trip to the Help file for direction, since the layout flows nicely and its functions are well defined. Resizing our photos happened quickly and easily. We selected a single shot or an entire folder and were ushered … Read more

Screen-capturing program

Screenshot Magic offers users the ability to capture a picture of anything that graces their computer's screen. While it works well, users may be turned off by this program's confusing interface.

This program's interface demands a trip to the Help menu from the moment its simple collection of radio buttons and menus appears on screen. Without this program's informative Help file, most users would be lost, as Screenshot Magic's simple screen captures are the result of careful option selection at this stage. Once users determine whether they'd like a desktop shot, a screen capture, … Read more

Simple screen capturer

When information comes across your screen that you do not want to forget, a screen capture is in order. While using inaccurate and confusing hot keys was once the preferred method, ScreenHunter Free offers an alternative that promises to simplify the process.

This free program has a simple interface that makes this operation surprisingly easy. The main screen is well spaced and intuitive enough to have new users making screen captures in no time. A menu along the top allows users to make screen captures now or to stand by. Along the left side of the screen are the buttons … Read more