Although I'm a hopelessly U.S.-centric person, I still find it engaging from time to time to gauge the opinions of those outside uncle sam's borders about what they consider stellar products. One indicator of those opinions is awards like those bestowed earlier this month by the European Imaging and Sound Association (EISA). Among the association's top products for 2007-2008 is Optics Pro 4.5 by DxO Labs, of Boulogne, France.



It's easy to see why Optics Pro won an EISA award. Even photos that look very good straight from a digital camera look even better after they're processed with the application. Nevertheless, the software may be overkill for most amateur photographers, although it's easier to use than many programs aimed at a professional market. And because of its lack of versatility, it's an application you'll want to supplement something like Photoshop or Paint Shop Pro, not replace them.