Looking for Graphics Design Software to meet my needs. Help!?

Question

I used to have Microsoft Image Composer...a tool that came with Frontpage. I think they stopped making it around '99. It doesn't work on my new Vista operating system. I need a replacement. I don't want to buy Illustrator and Photoshop...they are overkill. I don't want some fluff photo editor that does red eye reduction and just color popping. I need a tool that allows me to apply muliple effects to images. I should be able to draw circles, squares, etc.. I should be able to do drop shadows. I should be able to do pixel level image manipulation. I want to be able to adjust brush sizes, color eye dropper, layering, etc.. I need an advanced amateur version of a blend of photoshop and illustrator. I looked at Adobe Photoshop Elements and it's too photo focussed...not enough design aspects to it. Any suggestions??

Answer 1

Adobe Fireworks (ex macromedia).

More typically used for web based type graphics but can support vector form as well. By your description, it's exactly what you want.

Answer 2

Everything, everything you said the program should be able to do, Elements can do it.  I don't think you gave it enough of a chance.  Circles, squares, ovals, stars, bevels, drop shadows, brush size adjustment, defining your own brushes and patterns, gradients, special effects via filters and layer styles, color eye dropper for selection of colors, RGB or hex color definition.  You should look more at it and don't approach it as just an photo editor with fluff.  It has much more, probably or maybe more than you know how to use.  If MS Image Composer is anything like Frontpage, it is c**p compared to Elements.

Now, if you are dead set on an inexpensive vector program that will import bit map images or in otherwords, rastered images, there is Xara Xtreme for less than a $100.  See at http://www.xara.com/ and be sure to look at the gallery.  There are no photographs in the gallery.

Answer 3

I bought the photoshop Design Premium cs3 package. Then I bought Wacom Cintiq 12wx LCD pen tablet. To do things right you have to have the right equipment. Its spendy but things are expensive for a good reason because their top of the line. To be the best gotta work with the best.