Help Choosing Software

[sunshine]

Okay, I have PSE 4.0 and I can do almost everything that I need to do in whatever roundabout way that I need to do it. However, I would like to be able to do a few things that I just can't do in PSE and I have the opportunity (Christmas) to get PhotoShop. Based on the reviews, it looks like CS3 is kind of buggy. Should I go with CS2 even though the price difference isn't that great? And what about Illustrator? What is its purpose? I know it can do text on a path, but I am assuming that CS2 can do that as well. Why would I want to use two products instead of just one?

My MIL is a teacher and the ILs are VERY generous with Christmas & birthday gifts (a week apart for me) she will usually spend around $500 combined, which would cover a teacher's edition of the Creative Suite or just CS (2 or 3?) and some savings for that 300mm lens that I really want. What would you guys recommend?

[ScrapMel]

I would go with CS3. Don't go with the older version, the bugs will be worked out (CS2 had problems too, if I recall, at first). I have heard so much - like you take multiple shots, the CS3 will line them up and correct them for you, delete things out, etc. And smart filters (you use filters, but it is like a mask/adjustment layer, so you can undo it!)
As for Illustrator, I don't have a clue about it. I see there is a class here on it now (I think?) and I would like to know what it does do.
Oh, lucky girl! And with PSE 4 you can just buy with the upgrade price, so it should be like $200 or less, I know they just had a special on CS3 upgrades, didn't they?

[Sandersmr]

I would go CS3 for the same reasons Mel outlines. Or you may even look at PSP

[sunshine]

Okay, so they are not going to charge me for bug fixes (ie...we'll fix that in CS4 for $299 please)?

What about CS 3 Extended vs CS3? What is the difference?

Thanks gals for your help!

[Debb Cozzi]

I just bought CS3 Design Standard which includes InDesign, Photoshop CS3, Illustrator and Adobe Acrobat 8 Professional. I got it for a bundled price figuring I would eventually get around to using it all in one way or another (although to be honest I'm still muddling through with PSCS; the transition from PSP to that is not the easiest. You will probably have an easier time since your are so familiar with PSE.)

Rachel teaches a fantastic Intro to PS class if you do get PS and Holley has just come out with a really neat Illustrator class. It is intended for designers but really anyone can take the class-want to learn how to make your own very cool digital doodles? Then Holley's class is just for you!! ;) :D :D

[sunshine]

That's what I think my decision will come down to: I can get CS3 Extended for around $300 or CS3 Design Std for around $400...then I have all sorts of stuff to learn for the next few years.