Advice on digital workflow - which software?
 

Hello

I'm new to Photoradar. I've searched the forums for a suitable place to put this thread but this is the only place that seems related to my query (although it's not technique related). I hope it's ok. If not please advise as I cannot find a software dedicated link.

I've taken loads of photos but I've never done any post-processing and would like to start. I've read articles on digital workflow but, being a novice there are a few things I need to clarify.

Software:

Many of them seem to overlap in capability so I need to decide what to work with. I already have Canon bundled software (I've not even used that yet!!) so should at least be able to process RAW files there.

As far as I can gather I'll need Lightroom and Elements (I don't want to splash out on CS yet - walk before I can run etc. :p). I'm not sure if I'll need Adobe Camera Raw. I'm aware of other softwar such as Serif's Photoplus but there are so many support articles for the usual ones that I'll consider them.

At the moment I'm deciding between a PC or MAC (never used a MAC) but it's very difficult to find rational and reasoned arguments!!! This introduces the question of how MAC iLIFE suite would fit in.

So, based on the above will this set of software, along with Canon bundle provide what I need?

Process RAW - organise & rate - post process files - file conversions as needed etc.

I would appreciate any advice.

Thanks in anticipation.

Seeing you have not even used the canon software I would suggest using that first .

There's a surprising amount you can do with it.

Failing that go for Lightroom or elements .(adobe camera raw is just a different way of processing Raw images Canon is fine though )

Elements comes with a good library feature built in .Canon has zoombrowser .

Make your mind up soon and stick to one though as before long you will end up with multiple copies of files all over the hard drive eating up space .

I started with Canon then elements and now use Lightroom and cs3.

Much comes down to how much post processing you want to do.If it's getting the best out of a Raw file and not fiddling too much more Lightroom 3 could be all you need.

Thanks Matt

I do need to get myself started with post processing. I believe as little as possible should be done with general photos, apart from such things as correcting for lens behaviour or compensating for camera limitations (e.g. dynamic range).

Thanks for your advice. I'll get going with Canon DPP and take it from there.

I just need to decid PC or Mac now! :p

You could get by with Elements alone (Mac or PC)..... I know Lightroom has become very popular, particularly since version 3, but Elements, with its Organizer (database system), will do all you need unless you're dealing with photos in bulk that need very fast turnaround - like a commercial or wedding photographer. The latest version of Elements (version 9) is for both PC and Mac costs, I believe, about 60 pounds in the UK, so perhaps 70 Euros.