Nik suite and Topaz suite

[Jay Gould]

Let's have some fun: who uses which suite/programs under what circumstances?

[Charles Glatzer]

Jay,

Involves long detailed explanation on how to use filters to their best advantage.

In short...use the Brush option for the majority of filter applications. The resulting layer mask generated can be tweaked/modified with further Brush tool if necessary to define application areas. Brush and Layer opacity can be changed to modify the effect. Additional application refinement can be achieved by Ctrl/Cmd clicking the layer mask (putting the mask into selection) and using the mired of CS tools to refine the mask edge selection for an even tighter tolerance of filter application.

Tip-use plug-in's with Smart Filters to create actions for those filters that you use frequently.

Most commonly used filters below...
NIK- Tonal Contrast, White Neutralizer, Brillance/Warmth, Define for NR, and Silver Effex for B&W
Topaz- In Focus is outstanding

Best,

Chas

[Paul Lagasi]

I just purchase Topaz, so far I am happy with it but I've limited experience

[Ray Rozema]

I can not answer the main poiint of your question. I would say the the mask tool works very well and is a great time saver if you learn how to use it optimally. You make very detailed accurate mask fairly quickly