Create amazing photo albums (if you have the latest OS X)
While some are content to carry thousands of digital images on mobile devices, there is still a contingent of loyal Mac users who fancy the notion of preserving memories in hardcopy for future generations to enjoy. With the fifth edition of its popular scrapbook application, Chronos appeals to both camps.
iScrapbook 5 assists users in creating digital scrapbook albums in single or dual page spreads. Individual pages or entire albums can be printed on paper or exported to PDF, TIFF, JPEG or PNG files. With more than 15 new feature categories, including texture, glass and simulated old film overlays, this version creates pages that look more authentic. Shine on imported photos comes thanks to one-click auto enhancement, while 3D headlines help modernise albums, with complete control over lighting, bevel and reflections.
The clean, easy-to-use layout tools haven’t changed much, with the exception of a revamped Browser and Layer views on the right. The former contains tabs for Shapes, Artwork, Photos, Text and Favorites, which include elements that can be dragged onto the canvas, such as self-contained iScrapKits available for purchase online. (The app includes a few to get started, along with downloadable freebies to cut down on application size.)
Seizing on the photo-filter trend popularised by Instagram, iScrapbook 5 includes numerous effects, including vintage, vibrance and line art looks. Others, such as sunburst, sparkle and 13 different water stains, can be dragged onto elements for a more realistic appearance. Applying effects was snappy on our mid-2012 MacBook Pro with Retina display. Texture overlays add heightened realism to pages, which can be created in standard 12x12-inch scrapbook, letter, A4, or most custom sizes.
But this visual wizardry comes with a downside: iScrapbook 5 requires OS X 10.10 or later, leaving some Mac owners stranded on a less-glitzy previous version. In a sign of the times, Chronos has adopted OS X extension support for sharing pages via Mail, Messages or social networks. Although trackpad gestures still get no love – zooming in or out of pages requires the on-screen slider. JR Bookwalter