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Nik Software’s new Viveza photographic plug-in enables photographers of all skill levels to precisely select and control the light and color in photographic images while working in Photoshop. Incorporating Nik Software’s U Point technology, Viveza It doesn’t require you to create complicated selections or layer masks or have expert-level knowledge of Adobe Photoshop.

To make adjustments, simply place U Point-powered Color Control Points directly on colors or objects in an image (such as sky, skin, grass, etc.) then adjust easy-to-use sliders for brightness, contrast, color and more. Viveza automatically selects objects and creates masks based on where you place a Color Control Point. This makes it much easier to selectively apply filters.

“When attempting to selectively edit images, photographers typically face the challenge of isolating the color or object they want to enhance. They then need to ensure that the selective enhancements look natural,” said Michael J. Slater, president and CEO of Nik Software. “Our U Point technology addresses these challenges and provides Photoshop users with a full range of capabilities for selectively controlling color and light.”

Viveza is compatible with Adobe Photoshop's Smart Filter feature which allows you to fine tune enhancements after they’ve been applied without adding additional layers. With Viveza’s Selective Tool, you can use Photoshop’s brush tools to brush any light and color changes into your image. For added control and fine detail adjustments, Viveza also supports pressure-sensitive features optimized for Wacom Pen Tablets.

Viveza is expected to ship in Q1 for around $250. It will be available for Windows and Macintosh operating systems, including Vista and Leopard.