X3 just released

[Hinfrance]

For those, who like me, cannot stretch to CS Photoshop, you might find this an interesting alternative to PaintShop Pro and/or supplementary to Elements.

The gen can be found at www.serif.com.

Key improvements over the previous version are:
16 bit editing
HDR
Vastly improved RAW support
Better EXIF handling (not perfect - use it with Irfanview and everything is possible)
HD file support

Does user macros (actions in Adobe jargon), filter layers, adjustment layers, excellent mono conversions (I always used the previous version for this).

Downsides:
8bf plugin support is not perfect or universal
Slower than Adobe's offerings
Max brush size only 500px
RAW images still better processed with manufacturer's software

Have a look at the video on their site.

It's only £59.95.