OnOne Focal Point software Review

System requirements
Windows

• Windows XP with SP2 or Vista
• Microsoft .NET 2.0 Framework or higher
• 32bit operating system supported
• 64bit operating system not supported yet
• OpenGL capable video card with 128Mb VRAM (256Mb recommended) at 1024x768 or higher

Macintosh

• Version: 1.1.1
• Mac OS X 10.4.8 or higher
• G5 or Intel Core Processor(s)
• Universal Binary - Supports PowerPC & Intel Processors
• OpenGL capable video card with 128Mb VRAM (256Mb recommended) at 1024x768 or higher

Common to both Operating Systems

• Photoshop CS2, CS3, or CS4
• Photoshop Elements 5 or 6 (Windows)
• Photoshop Elements 4.01 or 6 (Mac OS X)
• 1Gb of RAM (2 or more Gb recommended)
• 50Mb disk space
• Adobe Flash Player 9
• Internet Connection for auto-updates

OnOne software boast a wide range of Photoshop compatible filters for a range of tasks including interpolation, framing and other common editing tasks. Focal Point is a new filter from the same stable, which aims to reproduce the look of special effects lenses such as the popular Lenbaby, without adding any weight to your camera bag.

Focal Point isn't the only Photoshop add-on available to recreate this kind of effect, AlienSkin Bokeh Filter, reviewed on 23rd March 2009, is the main competition and costs around £45 more.

Adding Planar Blur can be tricky.

In Use
A insect-shaped controller allows you to change the effect generated by adjusting the length and angle of the arms in relation to the square in the centre. I found this control quite intuitive once I had gotten used to it. It did take me a while to get the hang of though.

If you really can't get the hang of this control method, all aspects of the blur effect can be adjusted manually using the sliders on the right-hand-side.

For those requiring a quick-fix, some prestes are provided, but these mainly deal with different kinds of vignettes. A few more varied presets would've been appreciated.

OnOne Focal Point 1.0: Results
With the correct image, Focal Point can be used effectively to help concentrate attention on your subject. Although the results are good, I didn't find them to be a replacement for actually using a special effects lens, such as a lensbaby, more that this filter would compliment the kit of someone who is after that kind of effect, but with the control of being able to creat the effect afterwards, and to take the picture using your own autofocus lenses.

Before any blur is added.

After blur gives the effect of a small aperture.

Before the blur is added.

After the blur is added.

OnOne Focal Point 1.0: Verdict
For those who hanker after the selective focus effect, but can't stand the hassle and expense of having to use a specialist lens for the job, this filter may open up some new creative possiblities. It's certainly cheaper than one of those lenses too, so it will also suit those on a budget.

OnOne Focal Point 1.0: Plus points:
Simple and straightforward to use
The effect is well-rendered and quite realistic
Cheaper than a specialist lens
Noise can be intruduced into the blur to match the noise in higher ISO images

OnOne Focal Point 1.0: Minus points:
Planar Blur effect is difficult to master
Although cheaper than a lens, it's still quite expensive
Still not really a substitute for the real thing

FEATURES

EASE OF USE

PERFORMANCE

OVERALL


OnOne Focal Point 1.0 costs $159.99 (roughly £99) direct from OnOne's website:

OnOne Focal Point 1.0