I’m very happy to be apart of this evolution of Lightroom and digital photography. Version 2 represents the latest in digital image mangement, non-destructive editing, and superior (and unmatched) integration with the Adobe Photoshop, the gold standard in image editing.

You can snag your free copy of the Lightroom 2 beta from Adobe Labs. Everyone is free to download and try the applicaiton for 30 days (even our competitors), and if you have a Lightroom 1.0 serial number you’ll be able to use the app for the duration of the beta period.

And of course, in the spirit of the first Lightroom beta we’ll be listening to, and incorporating user feedback into the final finished product. And you can bet, it’ll be stellar.

There are already a TON of videos, tutorials, and resources created to help you get up to speed quickly on this release, some of my favorite videos are over on the Photoshop User magazine Lightroom 2 Resource Center.  One of the best overviews I’ve read so far is from Ian Lyons. For some inside perspective and technical details, check out my co-worker Tom Hogarty’s blog.

Here are just a few of the new features you’ll find in the beta. (appropriated from John Nacks post)

• Library Module:
  
  • Streamlined Library layout
  • Smart Collections (based on search criteria)
  • Powerful Filter Bar to search and refine images
  • Suggested Keywords for simplified keywording
  • 10,000 pixel size limit raised to 30,000 pixels
  • Output-based collections
• Multiple monitor support:
  • Four flexible modes for an alternate window: Grid, Loupe, Compare, Survey
  • Live Loupe mode
• Export functionality:
  • Auto-add exported images to the Lightroom catalog
  • Auto Output Sharpening for images on export
• Develop Module:
  • Non-Destructive Localized Correction for dodging and burning specific areas of an image
  • Post-Crop Vignette
  • Basic Panel Keyboard Shortcuts
  • Improved Auto Adjustment
  • Improved memory handling through 64-bit support on OS X 10.5 and Vista 64-bit.(Not limited to develop module)
• Print Module:
  • Picture Package for multi-page layouts
  • Print Module output directly to JPEG
  • Enhanced Print Sharpening based on PhotoKit Sharpener algorithms
  • 16-bit Printing for Mac OS X 10.5

Again, I’m extreemly excited to see what photograpehrs are able to do with this software. Please download your copy of the Lightroom 2 beta, play with it, and post your comments in the Lightroom 2 Beta Forums.

Enjoy!