Surprised by Photoshop CS5

At this point in my career it takes a lot to surprise me with imaging software. I've lived through every release of Adobe Photoshop and each year take the plunge into their latest update and creation. I held out on CS5 thinking that there probably wouldn't be much of a difference. There really wasn't a lot of hype around the release either. So I was very surprised when I started using it that it was indeed a major improvement.

Speed... CS5 on an Intel based Mac just seems more responsive and smooth. Whatever is under the hood of this release is a very pleasant ride. The Mini Bridge is something I've really been waiting for. I have no need to launch the full bridge, and haven't used bridge in any release as it was always slow. But, the mini-bridge is extremely fast and intuitive.

The new quick selection tool is also a big deal. I was in need of a selection tool for a project I was working on and the quick selection tool was brilliant. The days of long choppy selections are over and this is a very welcomed new feature.

The painting brushes surprised me as well. I was off creating some pretty amazing effects and artistic renderings within moments of choosing a brush.I know these aren't the features that are being praised or talked about in great length. But, at first glance these were the features that I knew would enhance my workflow and creative offering. Amazing Adobe! CS5 is truly a work of art.