This is indeed bizarre. Last night I got a message of an update for Studio. So I shut Photoshop down and ran the standalone version of Studio. And installed an update.
Launched Photoshop and launched Studio several times.
Did not have to do the layer transparency work around.
Worked like a charm.
Studio was reporting to be 1.4.4
Today in Photoshop I launch Studio a couple times. Everything is great.
However I notice there is an update.
So, I shut down Photoshop.
Launch Studio as a standalone.
Updates are applied.
Launch Photoshop.
Run Studio as a plugin.
Will only launch once.
Have to close Photoshop and re-launch Photoshop CC 2018.
Studio is reporting to be 1.5.2.
I did not try the lock layer transparency trick. Will do so and get back...
OK... layer transparency lock work around appears to work.
So whatever Topaz did last night to resolve the issue was undone with the last update today.
I guess Topaz is going the Microsoft route and getting it's cash paying customers to be their beta testers.
I find it ironic I've been getting coupons from Topaz this week and I was going to grab Restyler...
But why should I purchase a plugin that will be retired to the shelves or will be converted to a Studio only option after all the issues Studio has been giving loyal customers.
I've NEVER been vocal before about an app. I use plugins by Topaz, Akvis, FilterForge, apps Corel Painter 2017, Painter Essentials 4, Adobe Photoshop CC 2018, Artrage 5, Adobe Lightroom CC 2018,
3DCoat 4.6, Curvy 3D 3, Silo3D 2.5, Daz Studio, Poser Pro 2012, e-onsoftware Vue Complete.
My frustration with Studio exceeds anything. Never had issues with the old Topaz Plugins.
It's been close to two weeks since I started this thread, yet the problem remains unsolved.
Despite my frustration, I must admit Topaz Impression is not only my favorite plugin but one of my most favorite graphic apps.
If only it was a true plugin and not a Studio app.