Photoshop-compatible plugins come in several types: parser plugins 8by, selection plugins 8bs, filter plugins 8bf, import plugins, 8ba, export plugins 8be, file format plugins 8bi, and automation plugins 8ly.
Filter plugins are the most common type. They have the 8bf file format and usually supply special image effects. 8bf is a file format for plugins used by many raster graphics editors.
• Import/export plugins acquire or write image data to or from certain devices
• File format plugins open and save exotic image formats
• Automation plugins automate certain tasks in the manner of Photoshop Actions
Filters are the most common type of plugin for Photoshop designers. Using filter plugins, designers can quickly render graphics with hundreds of different effects. Some of the most common effects include: bevel, glass, carve, drop shadow, and glow. There is no need for a plugin for each of these effects. All of these effects can be accomplished using the same plugin.
Plugins are not difficult to find for Photoshop. There are thousands of plugins available on tens of thousands of websites. You can search for them based on their use, when they were developed, the developer, or the category.
The Adobe website is a good resource when you are searching for plugins. Although the plugins offered are from 3rd parties, Adobe does ensure that the files are clean and not infected with any harmful viruses or other dirty little critters. On the Adobe website, you can find plugins sorted by their developer and by their category.
