Software confused!

[bbabe]

Was hoping someone could advise or suggest some programs?

I used to have on my old old pc photoshop 7 from memory then once we lsot everything i got elements put on it... now i have a brand new laptop and i'm confused as to what to get for my photography. I see all your professionals with these CRISPY looking photos and i want to be able to learn to do that!

but which program?

Can anyone suggest what programs might be best? or are managable on a laptop? I do love a good program and have learnt the basics in Photoshop... and i found Elements easier to work BUT more in some areas like borders and less in others like photo manipulation!

SO *deep Sigh* i'm now not sure what to put on the new pc?

any suggestions or ideas pointers would be great!
please dont forget i am a newbie to photoshop i do know your basic layers and stuff but was still learning.

any ideas and experiences would be appreciated!
thank you in advance
Bbabe

[bigdazzler]

Go the GIMP ... cant beat if for value and put the cash towards your SLR ...

[Colinz]

Looking at your camera gear, I would suggest Elements. I don't have too much time to put into PP'ing my shots so I use PE4 with two important plugins- Neat Image and Focus Magic.

[Kym]

These may help..

http://www.ausphotography.net.au/for...ead.php?t=8579 (Sharpening)
http://www.ausphotography.net.au/for...444#post232444 (Processing)
http://www.ausphotography.net.au/for...ad.php?t=24359 (Software)

I'm guessing you are not sharpening