From today photographers are able to test-drive Adobe Lightroom 2.0 ? revamped imaging software boasting new features such as ?localised dodge and burn correction?.

The updated Develop module allows photographers to ?correct specific parts of the image without affecting other areas?, explains Adobe, adding that the ?non-destructive? approach leaves the underlying digital file unaltered.

Also new is Smart Collections, a feature designed to help photographers organise their pictures by automatically grouping photos whose metadata includes a particular keyword, for example.

Adobe Lightroom 2.0 also supports the use of a second monitor, to help photographers manage their ?workflow and presentation?.

The public beta version of Adobe Lightroom 2.0 is available as a free 30-day trial by visiting www.labs.adobe.com/downloads

Existing Lightroom 1.0 customers will be able to take part in the free trial until 31 August.