Unified Color Technologies, which specialize in high dynamic range imaging (HDR), has launched 32 Float, a HDR-specific plug-in for Adobe Photoshop that brings 32-bit color controls and editing tools to Photoshop users.
With 32 Float, photographers have complete control over images in the full 32-bit color gamut, regardless of the software used to create the resulting merged file, according to Unified Color Technologies CEO Alfred Zee. They’re able to separate color data from brightness information, to make brightness adjustments without introducing the color shift often seen using other HDR solutions.
Developed alongside the company’s fully-featured HDR solution, HDR Expose, 32 Float was created with the input of the rapidly growing HDR photography community, a group which relies on refined control of its full 32-bit image data to create the most realistic HDR images. The 32 Float plug-in offers an interactive HDR histogram that ensures the necessary adjustments made to highlight and shadow details are maintained even at lower resolutions. 32 Float also presents a HDR tool kit to address image issues common with the HDR technique.
Starting Aug. 23, 2010, 32 Float will be available for purchase at http://www.unifiedcolor.com at a list price of US$99. A special introductory launch price for the plug-in of $79 will be available through Sept. 23, and a free 30-day trial version is also available.
Unified Color also offers free online training sessions for users of its software. Each session covers a complete walkthrough of the HDR workflow made possible with the recently launched HDR Expose and the new 32 Float. The live online classes will start with a general product demonstration followed by a question-and-answer session during which photographers can discuss various tools and techniques or even inquire about their own ongoing projects. Photographers are encouraged to visit the following URL to confirm the upcoming schedule for these sessions: http://www.unifiedcolor.com/event-calendar .
32 Float is compatible with Adobe Photoshop CS3, CS4, and CS5 versions, and is available for Mac OS X (10.5 and 10.6) and Windows operating systems.