In today’s digital age, there is no denying the importance of photo editing software in creating stunning and captivating visuals. When it comes to photo editing software, Adobe Photoshop reigns supreme. With numerous features and capabilities, it has become the go-to software for photographers, graphic designers, and visual artists alike. However, with the introduction of Photoshop Creative Cloud (CC), many have wondered if it really lives up to its hype when compared to its predecessor, Photoshop CS6. In this blog, we will explore the ultimate showdown between Photoshop CC and CS6 and see which one comes out on top.
What is Photoshop CC?
Photoshop CC is the latest version of Adobe Photoshop released in June 2013. Unlike the previous versions of Photoshop, CC is only available through a subscription to Adobe’s Creative Cloud service, hence its name. This means that users have to pay a monthly fee to use the software. However, this also means that they are constantly receiving updates and new features, making it a more dynamic and cutting-edge software.
What is Photoshop CS6?
Photoshop CS6 was released in May 2012 and has been the standard version for many photographers and designers for several years. This is a one-time purchase version, meaning that users do not have to pay a monthly subscription fee, but they do not receive updates and new features unless they purchase the next version of Photoshop.
User Interface
One of the first things that users notice when comparing Photoshop CC and CS6 is the user interface. While both versions have a similar layout, CC has a darker interface, making it easier on the eyes for long editing sessions. CS6, on the other hand, has a brighter interface. This can be a personal preference, but the darker interface of CC does seem to provide more contrast and allows users to focus more on their work.
However, it should be noted that CC gives users the option to customize their interface, allowing them to switch between a light and dark interface. This is a handy feature, especially for those who are used to CS6 and may not feel comfortable with the darker interface.
Storage and File Management
One of the biggest changes that came with Photoshop CC was the integration with Adobe’s Creative Cloud service. This means that users can store their images and projects on the cloud, making it easier to access and share them across devices. This has become a game-changer for photographers and designers who are constantly on the go and may not have access to their computer.
CS6, on the other hand, does not have this feature. Users have to rely on external storage devices or platforms like Dropbox to store and access their files. This can be a bit of a hassle and may not be as convenient as having storage on the cloud.
Image Editing and Enhancing Tools
When it comes to image editing and enhancing, both versions of Photoshop offer a wide range of tools and features. However, CC has some additional features that make it stand out. One of the most significant differences is the content-aware tools. Photoshop CC has built-in content-aware techniques that make it easier to remove unwanted objects or elements from images seamlessly. This tool comes in handy for photographers who want to remove unwanted people or objects from their landscapes without leaving a trace.
Another feature exclusive to CC is the camera shake reduction tool. This feature helps to reduce blurriness in images caused by camera shake, making it easier to salvage images that may have been deemed unusable before. This can be a lifesaver, especially in low light and action photography.
On the other hand, CS6 has features like the Puppet Warp tool, which allows users to manipulate and warp images easily, and the Mini Bridge, a more streamlined version of the Bridge that helps users manage and browse their images. These features are not available in CC, which can make it a bit frustrating for users who are used to having them at their disposal.
New Features and Updates
One of the biggest selling points of Photoshop CC is the constant updates and new features that Adobe releases. This ensures that users always have the latest tools and techniques at their disposal, making their work more efficient and creative. CC also integrates with other Adobe programs like Lightroom and Illustrator, making it easier to switch between them and work on various projects seamlessly.
CS6 does not receive updates and new features, meaning users have to purchase the next version of Photoshop to access them. This can be a downside for those who do not want to spend extra money on updates or are not fans of the subscription model.
Pricing
One of the significant differences between Photoshop CC and CS6 is the pricing model. As mentioned earlier, CC is only available through a monthly subscription fee, whereas CS6 is a one-time purchase. This makes CS6 more affordable, especially for those who are on a tight budget. However, if you consider the constant updates and new features that come with CC, it may be worth the monthly subscription fee for some users.
Which one is the winner?
In the ultimate showdown between Photoshop CC and CS6, it is challenging to declare one as the outright winner. Both versions have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what users are looking for in a photo editing software. Users who value constant updates and new features may prefer CC, while those who prefer a one-time purchase model and are not interested in the latest updates may opt for CS6.
Conclusion
Both Photoshop CC and CS6 are excellent photo editing software, and it ultimately comes down to what works best for you and your needs. So, whether you choose to go with the traditional CS6 or subscribe to Photoshop CC, you can be sure that you are getting a powerful and versatile tool that will help you bring your creative visions to life.
