Elements 2020 V18.0 [upd] | Adobe Photoshop
The standout characteristic of version 18.0 is the , which automates tasks that previously required advanced masking and layering skills.
: This feature detects faces and applies a smoothing effect to reduce blemishes and wrinkles while maintaining natural textures via a simple adjustment slider. Growth Through Guided Edits
Photoshop Elements 2020 is a reliable, capable "forever" license editor. If you can find it at a discount, it is excellent value for money. However, if you are buying brand new at full price, you might want to consider a newer version (2023 or 2024) to get better AI features like modern Sky Replacement. adobe photoshop elements 2020 v18.0
| Guided Edit | Use Case | |--------------|----------| | | Blur background, keep subject sharp | | Move & Scale Object | Move someone closer in a group photo | | Perfect Landscape | Swap skies, fix exposure in parts of image | | Black & White with Color Pop | One object in color, rest B&W | | Photo Merge | Group shot (faces from multiple photos), Panorama, Exposure merge (HDR) |
: This tool uses AI to intelligently add color to old black-and-white photos or refresh the tones in faded color images. The standout characteristic of version 18
| Can’t do in Elements 2020 | Workaround | |---------------------------|-------------| | Channels panel (advanced masking) | Use & layer masks | | Pen tool paths as vector masks | Use selection-based masks only | | 32-bit HDR editing | Use Guided > Photo Merge > Exposure Merge | | Custom brushes / actions | Use built-in brushes & Guided Edits |
For those who enjoy social media and digital scrapbooking, the 2020 version offers updated collage templates and the ability to create "Pattern Brushes." Users can also create dynamic slideshows and GIFs directly within the app. By balancing a simplified interface with a robust feature set, Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020 v18.0 remains a top choice for anyone looking to transform their snapshots into polished works of art. If you can find it at a discount,
| Feature | Photoshop Elements 2020 | Photoshop CC (Subscription) | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | One-time purchase | Monthly subscription | | Target Audience | Hobbyists, Scrapbookers | Professionals, Retouchers | | Learning Curve | Low (Guided Mode) | High | | RAW Editing | Basic (via Camera Raw) | Industry Standard | | Updates | None (Static) | Constant new features |
Adobe Photoshop Elements 2020 is a solid, consumer-focused photo editor that bridges the gap between basic mobile apps and the intimidating complexity of the full version of Photoshop. While it lacks the "wow" factor of professional tools, it remains the best option for hobbyists who want powerful editing without a monthly subscription fee.
Unlike full Photoshop, Elements splits editing into two distinct modes:
: Best for rapid fixes like lighting and sharpening.