Digital Anarchy (http://www.digitalanarchy.com), a provider of software for photographers and digital artists, has announced a free update to their ToonIt! Photo plug-in for Aperture, Apple’s software for pro and semi-pro photographers.

ToonIt! 2.5 is now fully compatible with the 64-bit mode introduced by Apple’s Aperture 3, while still supporting 32-bit architectures and Aperture 2. The plug-in automatically takes photos and gives them a variety of cartoon and illustrated looks.

A “toon” effect is created, and Aperture users have a control in customizing the cartoon with different paint styles, shading and outlines. The software uses algorithms from Toonamation to create its cartoon shading and lines. One of the key features of ToonIt! is the ability to turn people and faces into believable cartoons. It’s never been so easy to turn photographs into illustrated portraits or a graphic novel.

ToonIt! Photo 2.5 for Aperture is regularly priced at US$129, but will be on sale for $99 until March 26. ToonIt! Aperture runs in Aperture 2 and 3. The plug-in runs on Mac OS X 10.3.9–10.6, Windows XP–7.0 and Vista systems. A separate version for use Photoshop and Elements is on sale for $129, normally $159. Demo filters and samples are available. Current owners of ToonIt Aperture should contact Digital Anarchy for free update instructions.