Photomizer 2.0.12.1212

Overview

From taking photos to uploading them can sometimes require an in-between task for fixing and optimizing them, for example to increase brightness and adjust colors. But not everyone is skilled enough in order to be able to make those changes; however the solution to this problem is Photomizer 2. It functions as an automated photo optimizer that processes the photos you give it and makes the necessary improvements. Of course more advanced users can play with it manually, since it has several settings available for configuration.

Installation

Running the installer will bring up a window that asks you to select your preferred language; afterwards you can proceed to the installation wizard which will guide you through a small series of steps with simple settings. No harmful or any other kind of additional software is included in the setup package.

Supported operating systems are Windows XP, Vista, 7 and 8.

Interface

The program has a solid-rock modern interface that is easy to get familiar with. On the left-hand side is a sidebar with a list of photos you want to optimize, and on the right-hand side is a sidebar with various options that you can make, such as select input profile to get recommended settings depending on the selected photo. Between the sidebars is a preview screen which splits the optimized image into two halves; on the left half is the original image and on the right half is the optimized image. Last but not least, there’s a small vertical table on the bottom of the window which holds some information regarding the overall optimization process.

Pros

There are 4 input profiles that can be used so that the program will determine the best output settings for the optimization of the image(s). Those are: Slide Scanner, Digital Camera, Cellphone and Webcam. Below the profile selection menu are 3 sliding menus with a few corresponding settings: Repair, Optimize and Rotate. Advanced users can manually adjust those settings, whilst inexperienced users can let the program itself pick the best combination of settings.

Before you initiate the optimization process you can choose the desired output format between JPG and BMP. If you pick JPG you can change the quality of the output image by adjusting the appropriate slider nearby.

The dual preview screen gives you the ability to compare the original and optimized photo as you make changes.

Cons

The list of output file formats could be expanded to include more file types (e.g. PNG, GIF, etc.). Other than that, everything else is perfect.

Alternatives

Photoscape (free) is a great product that allows you to edit your photos and optimize them in many ways. It has more features and editing tools than Photomizer, however it lacks the ability to make automatic improvements to your image. In addition, the dual-preview screen is missing as well. Serif PhotoPlus SE (paid) is an image-editing software with advanced features, similar to Photoscape.

Conclusion

Really useful program for improving the overall quality of your photos with very little effort, before you upload them and share them with others.