Nik Software has designed Nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 as a powerful, easy
to use tool that fits easily into your digital work flow, taking over the
complicated process of optimal image sharpening and providing you with an
application that is easy to understand and use. Nik Sharpener Pro 2.0
replaces the need for complicated and impractical sharpening methods
currently available within most image editing applications, and takes into
consideration all of the key elements of a printed image in order to
provide you with optimal sharpening.
Traditional sharpening methods, such as Unsharp Mask or High-Pass based
sharpening, are not easy to use and typically ask the user to base the
sharpening process on results as displayed on the monitor. While this
method works well for images intended to be viewed on a monitor, it is less
than adequate for other media. Effective image sharpening must take into
consideration a number of variables before sharpening, from the
characteristics of detail in the image, to the intended media, to the
circumstances surrounding the viewer and viewing distance. Nik Sharpener
Pro 2.0 identifies the key elements that comprise the image in its final
form in order to produce an optimal level of sharpening. These key elements
include the following:
1. Image detail and detail relationships
2. Print process
a. The method of recreating image detail printing
(continuous tone, inkjet, or halftone)
b. The resolution of output device
c. The substrate type and characteristics
3. Viewing characteristics
a. The viewing distance at which the image will be displayed
b. The personal preferences of the artist creating the print
Nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 begins by considering the variables that control the
final output. These variables include the detail characteristics of the
image, the image size, the printer type, the printer resolution, the
substrate characteristics, and the viewing distance. Then using advanced
algorithms, called the Autoscan process, Nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 analyzes and
adapts the sharpening process to the image in order to achieve optimal
image sharpness. The algorithms identify detail structures as well as
differentiate detail from one area to another (the sky and trees, for
example). They identify the types of technical changes and manipulations
that have already been made, and then protect areas which may be subject to
over sharpening as well as protect areas where sharpening may otherwise
introduce unwanted details. One of the additional benefits of the Autoscan
process is that it enables Nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 to adapt to every image
automatically. This is especially helpful when applying batch processes to
your images, as Nik Sharpener Pro 2.0 will alter the sharpening
characteristics throughout each image, based on the unique characteristics
of that image.
|
