Photoshop Lightroom beta to expire

Adobe have announced the first commercial release of Photoshop Lightroom 1.0 meaning beta users will have to pay-up or do without the program from February 28. Up until now, the photographic software has only been available in a free downloadable beta version but now users will have to pay $199 to continue using it ($299 after April 30th). Those hoping it will be released in the next version of Creative Suite will be disappointed as Adobe have officially confirmed that it won’t.

The new version offer various improvements featuring more import options and a new and improved metadata browser that offers faster access to information tags. Photographers can also filter through large collections with an advanced keyword tools library and color labels that have a new pick/reject system.

There’s also a new handy feature for making virtual copies and snapshot tools for providing multiple versions of the same image for comparison without touching the originals.

Finally, you’ll also have more control over saturation, hue and luminance with advanced brushes for making the most detailed of changes possible. Adobe also claim that more cameras are now supported including Nikon and Pentax brands.