Nik Software has announced the release of a new grayscale conversion and film grain emulator, Nik Silver Efex Pro. The program is available as a plug-in for both Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Elements, and Apple’s Aperture.

The new program employs Nik’s U Point technology and a familiar Nik interface. Additionally, Nik has developed a new grain emulation engine for the program, which, Nik claims, rebuilds the image based upon grain characteristics, instead of simply overlaying a “graininess” feel to the existing image.

Many popular film stocks and historical processes are represented and emulated in Silver Efex Pro, and users can also create their own personal styles and presets, as well as download extra presets from the Nik site.

Pretty much the only thing missing in this virtual wet darkroom is the lingering stench of Hydrosulfuric Acid and a safelight.

The program is currently available as a download for both MacIntosh and Windows platforms for $199.95. A fully functional 15-day trial is also available. Visit Nik for more info and to download the program. www.niksoftware.com

Stay tuned for a full review of Nik Silver Efex Pro.

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