Elements 12 vs. 11 (Released 9/24/13, Adobe, Inc.)
Just installed Photoshop Elements 12, kept version 11 and 10 installed for comparison tests.
Background: Version 11 was a major makeover from version 10. New interface, reorganized tools, and some added quick fixes.
Scope: This review will concentrate mainly on the expert mode, which is really just all the standard tools; and how it differs or not from Version 11. The library of quick fixes and the organizer will be reviewed separately.
On 12/31/13 it was $62.99. Note: this can change daily. I bought it last week for 59.00. Before Christmas it was 49.99
Recommendation
Highly recommended if you have an older version, Elements 10 or earlier.
If you already own and use Photoshop Elements 11, you probably do not need to upgrade. Check this page for Elements 12 new features. Very little was added.
Good News
The interface (color scheme, tool placement, menu bars, etc) did not change from version 11. If you are comfortable with 11, version 12 will look the same.
The price is still very low for this great software. I use the $600+ full Photoshop version, but Elements has 90% of the same features.
Content Aware Move - Lets you reposition objects in a picture and preserves the correct background
Auto Smart Tone - If your picture does not have what you think is the right tone or hue, try this first. Adobe has done a great job with many of the auto fixes. If it does not produce the tone you want, use the Hue/Saturation tool for most of your needs.
Other Enhancements
Enhanced Quick edit mode (frames, textures, and effects)
Greeting card printing | USA, Canada, & Japan
New Guided Edits
Content-aware fill for edges of straightened photos
