• How do I use it?

Varies from plugin to plugin.  The start point has to be to check the manual/documentation (which used ti be a physical manual but now is generally a PDF or html document) or experiment.  In most cases, the application has an undo, so experiment... Try the plugin with different images, try different settings, perhaps set to the extremes or use with lower settings and apply repeat effects.  Or use the plugin in combinations with other effects or actions. As with all things, it depends on what you would like to achieve using the plugin and the capabilities of the plugin and how much time you have to create that perfect image.

Most plugins come with preview screens so you can modify the sliders without affecting the main image. In most cases, the plugin image will match the preview. Once you are happy with the previewed image, click the OK button and apply.

Plugins generally can be applied to a layer or a selection, extending the creative possibilities.  Plugins can also be faded or applied in varying degrees and using different blending modes.

Further research into possible effects and combinations of plugin use can be found on the web or in many Photoshop books, as well as checking out magazines such as Computer Arts in the UK and MacDesign, though these generally only refer to the plugins that are native to Photoshop.  Many of the other plugins such as the frame plugins, I would suggest checking out the company websites for further uses of the plugins and additional tutorials to download.

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