Akvis (http://www.akvis.com) has released Akvis HDRFactory 2.0, an update of the software for Mac OS X (10.4 and higher) and Windows that creates HDR images from a series of photographs taken at different exposures or from a single photograph. The latest version introduces an Effects with parameters tool that helps to add a glow effect to an image, darken or lighten image edges, and add warm or cold tints.

Akvis HDRFactory is a program for creating High Dynamic Range images and making photo correction. It creates HDR photos (images with high dynamic range) by combining several images of the same object taken with different exposure values.

The app supports files in the RAW format. Registered users can upgrade to version 2.0 for free. Akvis HDRFactory is available in two editions: as a standalone program and as a plug-in to a photo editor.

Akvis HDRFactory sells for US$69 for the Home version (either plug-in or standalone), $99 for Home Deluxe (either plug-in or standalone, all features, including the Ghost Removal tool) and $189 for Business (either plug-in or standalone, including the Ghost Removal tool, for commercial use).

Both Home and Business users can obtain the full line of Akvis programs in the Akvis Alchemy Bundle (Retoucher, Chameleon, Multibrush, Enhancer, Refocus, HDRFactory, Coloriage, Noise Buster, Sketch, Decorator, LightShop, ArtSuite, SmartMask, Magnifier, ArtWork, and NatureArt) with the discount of 60%.