AKVIS Software Inc. has released AKVIS Sketch v.8.0 for Windows and Macintosh, an application that converts photos to pencil and watercolor drawings. The new version includes a Quick Preview window that could save you time when fine-tuning the settings. It also added EXIF and IPTC data support. The program is available as a stand-alone application, as well as a plug-in to a photo editor.
Akvis says the program works in an entertaining way. It allows observing the conversion of a photo into a drawing/watercolor in real time and even interrupting the process when the required result is achieved.
Some special effects included in the program can convert an ordinary photo into a piece of art, the company said. Create a blend of a drawing and a photo; imitate motion or add “time machine effect†by swirling the background. Put an accent to certain parts of the image by blurring the rest of it in an artistic way. It proves especially useful when the final drawing contains too many details on the background that divert attention, Akvis said.
[Site: Akvis.com]