Dynamic Visual Effects with a Deep Preset Library
Eye Candy by Alien Skin focuses on fast, stylized enhancements through a large library of presets and filters. It includes over 1,500 presets, grouped by category so it is easier to find a specific look, plus 32 filters for building textured finishes such as reptile skin, rust, and brushed metal. The big preset collection is a clear strength for quick results. A key limitation is that Eye Candy works as a plugin inside supported image editors rather than as a standalone tool.
Browsing stays straightforward thanks to category-based organization for presets and filters, which supports a smoother workflow when you need to test multiple looks quickly. The preset-first design also helps users get results without building effects manually layer by layer. The downside is that many effects lean bold and stylized, so subtle design work can take extra tuning to avoid a heavy-handed finish.
Organized Access to a Wide Range of Creative Options
Balancing Accessibility with Practical Limitations
Eye Candy keeps the core experience approachable by centering on presets, live previews, and adjustable sliders rather than complex compositing steps. That simplicity fits hobbyists and creators who want quick graphic design effects without a long setup process. The plugin-only setup remains the main practical constraint, since it depends on a compatible host editor for importing files, managing layers, and exporting finished work.
A Focused Effects Plugin for Designers
Eye Candy stands out for its large preset library and its set of 32 filters that cover a wide range of stylized textures and finishes. Category browsing supports faster experimentation, especially when you need multiple variations from the same starting point. The main trade-offs come from its plugin-based workflow and its strong visual style, which can demand extra restraint when you want a more subtle result.
Pros
- Large library of presets for fast results
- Organized categories support an efficient workflow
Cons
- Works as a plugin that depends on a supported host editor
- Many effects skew bold, making subtle looks harder to nail down quickly
