Software Gems?

Trev M

Hi All,

Just wondering what software people are currently using to process their images? Ive seen some elaborate post processing which is pretty impressive on the site here, Im guessing most people are using Photoshop?.

Im a little reluctant to get into something complicated like photoshop as Id rathr concentrate on getting used to the camera and lenss I have as a start. Anyone come across some simple to use little gems?

I currently use Canon Digital Photo Professional and i Photo08 which are pretty straight forward.

All the best
Trev

Fajitas!

Whether I want to keep my processing simple, or work it in to something more complex, I'll start off all my RAW files in Lightroom 2, for film, I import directly into Photoshop CS3 though.

I'd agree with your own thoughts though, work with what gear you have first, and when you're used to that, start looking at processing!

AnCatDubh

A lot of people around here would use lightroom, more would use photoshop, and less would use 'the gimp'. Also some people will use photoshop elements a cheaper and less functional version of the real mccoy.

I think it depends on your post-processing needs. For me, I'm not overly into a heavy amount of postprocessing (maybe if I had the time I would be) and hence 'the gimp' can yield all the processing and probably lots more than I need.

All the better if you can get things right in camera and don't need to perform corrective image surgery but at some stage you probably will want to try out your creative design side. Then you probably will expand your options in terms of post processing. I'd suggest to download some of the trials which you can generally get for 30days free before buying in case you decide - well you are really a photographer and not a designer Also the Gimp will be free if it were suitable to your needs.

Google's Picasa is free too and allows for some basic corrections and general photo management. Version 3 was pretty nifty if i recall correctly for all the basics.

peckerhead

On the back of this, and as a newb in a similar position, can I ask whether there's much similarity/overlap between Photoshop and Lightroom? I know I'm going to have to sit down and spend some time learning the ropes, and I wondered whether it makes sense to do one before the other, or whether the learning curve can be eased a bit.

For an old 35mm B&W enthusiast, you'd think I'd be grateful just not to have to stand in a darkened cupboard breathing in fixer fumes!

nilhg

peckerhead wrote: »

On the back of this, and as a newb in a similar position, can I ask whether there's much similarity/overlap between Photoshop and Lightroom? I know I'm going to have to sit down and spend some time learning the ropes, and I wondered whether it makes sense to do one before the other, or whether the learning curve can be eased a bit.

For an old 35mm B&W enthusiast, you'd think I'd be grateful just not to have to stand in a darkened cupboard breathing in fixer fumes!

Start with Lightroom, its much more user friendly with a clear workflow. If you spend a little time getting used to the programme and getting your head around its possibilities it will save you in the long run.

Download the months trial and have a look at these videos is my recommendation.

peckerhead

Thanks for that link, nilhg, looks good.

Trev M

peckerhead wrote: »

Thanks for that link, nilhg, looks good.

+1