Filter Forge has released Filter Forge 2.0, an update of the plug-in for Adobe Photoshop allowing computer artists to build their own filters: textures, visual effects, distortions, patterns, backgrounds, frames and more.

With the second version of the software. Filter Forge 2.0 features full support for unlimited HDR colors, shadows via ambient occlusion, point and area lights, and dozens of new components to create filters from. Filter Forge is a Photoshop plug-in that lets users create a variety of realistic and abstract textures and effects.

Users can take instant advantage of over 7,100 free community-created filters in the online filter library at http://www.filterforge.com/filters/ or create their own filters in the visual filter editor by assembling them from components such as blurs, gradients, color adjustments, noises, distortions, or blends.

Flter Forge is available for Mac OS X and Windows platforms. It can be used as a stand-alone application or as a plugin for Adobe Photoshop and compatible hosts. The free fully-functional 30-day trial version is available at the Filter Forge download page (http://www.filterforge.com/download/?prweb=1). It’s also offered in three differently priced editions targeted at entry-level, mainstream and professional graphic artists. Starting June 30, all editions of Filter Forge 2.0 are offered at a special 40% discount — customers can save up to $160. To buy Filter Forge at a 40% discount, visit the Filter Forge ordering page (http://www.filterforge.com/buy/?prweb=1).