Photoshop versus Photoshop Elements

[Davi]

Wasn't sure whether to go for computer or photography forum for this...

Never used Elements, before, but have extensive knowledge of full edition Photoshop. Brother wants to be able to do some of the stuff I do but really isn't wanting to either pay the price of CS4 or learning the complexities of the full version.

So... who out there uses PS Elements for retouching their photo's, and how does it compare? any "must have" features missing?

[Tycho]

I have Elements and TBH if you are only retouching family photos etc then it is all you need as it is oriented toward the home market and basic tasks. The organiser in it is good and easy to add tags etc and it has auto red eye etc.

If I occasionally needed anything more then I'd download Gimp for that.

[R&J]

I use elements, I find that tutorials are easier to find for PS but manage to do everything I need it to do.
I certainly cant justify the price difference. I work within its limitations and very happy with my results.

missing from Elements are (I'm sure there are others)
•Combine multiple exposures to create high dynamic range (HDR) images
•Channels Palette
•Vanishing Point Tool
•Some adjustment layers

I use Autostitch http://cvlab.epfl.ch/~brown/autostitch/autostitch.... for panoramas

I use Photomatix http://www.hdrsoft.com/ for HDR or fused exposures

I use http://tiltshiftmaker.com/ for tilt shift pics

hope this helps

edited to add a few of my attempts all with elements. (still not an expert but enjoying learning)
its still a powerfull tool

Edited by R&J on Monday 1st March 17:50

Edited by R&J on Monday 1st March 17:50

[Davi]

Thanks guys, it does indeed help.

He's a bit more advanced than retouching family snaps - he's a "proper" photographer but just doesn't really do much other than basic editing atm.

[Chicken Pox]

got CS2 on old laptop and Elements 8 must admit not noticed had to dig out the old laptop yet tbh for layers etc, but I don't do alot of blending/merging or HDR etc.