A large variety of imaging software is available, ranging from freeware to very-high-end publishing packages. Also, lower-end imaging software often comes bundled with scanners, printers and digital cameras. The following is a list of recommended features:

• Import and export facilities for the file formats to be used,
• Support of the required features of those formats, e.g. meta-data,
• Ability to manage the size of images required,
• Ability to have open more than one image open at a time,
• Ability to handle the range of operations normally needed,
• Adequate handling of the operations to be used only occasionally, or add-ons available to do so,
• Ability to save workspace settings, so that work in progress can pick up where it was left off, and
• Colour management support.

Other useful features to consider are:

• Calibration support, for monitor/printer etc.,
• Multi undo levels,
• Batch/macro facilities for volume/repeat operations,
• Good palette support,
• Facilities for import/export palettes,
• Support for TWAIN and/or ISIS standards for scanners, etc., and
• Built-in image management.

Another factor in the decision about what image editing software to acquire is the training requirement. High-end imaging software has numerous functions that may require substantial learning, even though most features may never be used. Things to look for are the help and tutorials included, third-party books and materials, and technical support.

Image editing can be a subjective process that requires artistic knowledge in the use of colours and colour processing as well as technical knowledge in the use of computers and related equipment. You will want to ensure that the objects in your collection are portrayed accurately.

There are many software packages available for image manipulation. Adobe PhotoShop (www.adobe.com) is one of the most common and powerful image editing applications. Others include, but are not limited to: