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Nik software
Jul 25, 2012 11:10:29   #
Wacotim Loc: Phoenix, AZ
 
I just got the nik software suite to use on my Mac. Anyone have tips for using it?

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Jul 26, 2012 06:20:28   #
leftyRich
 
Watch the free webinars that they have, they are a big help.

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Jul 26, 2012 07:43:11   #
IzzyKap Loc: Rockville, MD
 
It's a great software package. I primarily use Define first to eliminate noise, then Viveza for color, saturation, and detail (globally and locally), and then ColorEffects to apply filters for special effects. Occasionally, I also use their HDR package. Nik has many helpful tutorials and demos on their web site. After viewing one or two tutorials and examples, the idea behind the software and the U-points will become apparent and you will become proficient with it by experimenting. Good luck!

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Jul 26, 2012 12:17:30   #
Wacotim Loc: Phoenix, AZ
 
Thanks to both of you. I heard that the software was excellent and it great to get confirmation from those who use it.

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Jul 26, 2012 12:20:31   #
byronrobb
 
Go to the Nik Software website and watch the instructional videos. They have them for every piece of software. They are short and good.

For example, they have posted videos for Color Efex Pro 4 here:
http://education.niksoftware.com/category/55-filters-in-52-weeks/

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Jul 26, 2012 12:20:49   #
les_stockton Loc: Eastern Oklahoma
 
Wacotim wrote:
I just got the nik software suite to use on my Mac. Anyone have tips for using it?


Play. It took me a little while to be used to them. The first thing that I started with was Viveza, because I could have so much selective control over portions of the image as well as the overall image, using the control points. It's much better than having to use a photoshop adjustment brush. Much better.
You'll like it.
I went through (and am still going through) the videos and training at the Nik Software website, as well as stuff posted on youtube, which is very helpful.

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Jul 26, 2012 12:44:56   #
Davethehiker Loc: South West Pennsylvania
 
Wacotim wrote:
I just got the nik software suite to use on my Mac. Anyone have tips for using it?


I have been using them for a couple of years now. I started out with the version made Aperture and recently upgraded to the Photoshop version. The PS version is more expensive but the ability of combining the quick convenience of the Nik filters with the power of Photoshop is a real pleasure! I mean you can select a section of the image to play with, you can work between layers, if you make a mistake can Edit and step back. The tool I use the most is "Tonal Contrast" found in "Color Efex Pro"

Check out my link below. Nik filters were used on all these images.

Dave

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Jul 26, 2012 13:00:42   #
Wacotim Loc: Phoenix, AZ
 
Excellent photos! Thanks for the comment.

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Jul 26, 2012 15:29:28   #
Davethehiker Loc: South West Pennsylvania
 
Wacotim wrote:
Excellent photos! Thanks for the comment.

Thank you for visiting my website and leaving a comment.

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Jul 26, 2012 16:44:53   #
martinfisherphoto Loc: Lake Placid Florida
 
I have it running thru aperture and love the fact it makes a copy and leaves the original alone. They also have on-line live classes you can join up for free and ask questions as the class goes on. You get the dates and times they air. Check thru the Nik website and check them out, great info.
Wacotim wrote:
I just got the nik software suite to use on my Mac. Anyone have tips for using it?

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Jul 26, 2012 20:15:23   #
Wacotim Loc: Phoenix, AZ
 
I also use aperture and was wondering if there are any special issues. Thanks for setting my fears to rest.

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Jul 26, 2012 20:28:56   #
martinfisherphoto Loc: Lake Placid Florida
 
Your software runs on Lightroom and aperture. Just make sure you check the box Aperture when the software asks.
Wacotim wrote:
I also use aperture and was wondering if there are any special issues. Thanks for setting my fears to rest.

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