PhotoZoom Pro 2
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What about those algorithms we talked about earlier? Under the resize method menu, there are eleven different options for algorithms. Selecting different options will automatically update the preview window for easy proofing of the final product.

One of the best features of the program is the built-in unsharp mask. This feature will help sharpen your final print and reduce blurring as the image is enlarged. It is available for any algorithm you choose. Unsharp settings are easily edited and can be saved as presets if needed.

I started testing PhotoZoom Pro 2 using a 4X6-inch, 72 DPI photo. My first test was to enlarge the photo to 8X12. I did this using the S-Spline XL algorithm with and without the built-in unsharp mask. As you can see above in the picture sections, PhotoZoom Pro 2 did a wonderful job of enlarging the photo. Next, I enlarged the same photo to 11"X17" with equally good results. In both of my tests I preferred using the built-in unsharp mask to prevent edge blurring in the image. I left the unsharp settings at their default - but keep in mind, they are fully customizable to suit your needs. I also tried the other algorithms but in the end chose to stay with the default S-Spline XL. It seemed to give the cleanest enlargements for my purposes.

As my image is for use in an online publication, I chose to keep the image resolution at 72 DPI. However, I did enlarge the same image to both sizes and increased the resolution to 300 DPI. Seeing an actual print of the results convinced me that PhotoZoom Pro 2 could handle any job that I could throw at it. With my final enlargement, I couldn't find any sign that the printed image came from an enlarged digital photo.

Everyone from printers to digital photographers will find PhotoZoom Pro 2 an invaluable tool. There is almost no learning curve with this software. It is so easy to use and powerful — your first time using it will be a breeze. Choices of algorithms and presets will also give you enough control over your image to handle any job you have. Try PhotoZoom Pro 2 next time you need to enlarge a raster image and see the incredible results for yourself.

PhotoZoom Pro 2 is available for both Mac and Windows users and retails at US$149. PhotoZoom Pro v1 owners may upgrade for US$49, and PhotoMagic, PhotoArtist, and S-Spline owners may upgrade for US$79.

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