opening raw images

[cjdales]

I have recently started using Photoshop CS4 and have started using Raw files. However, when I open the files in CS4, they open in a different window to begin with from where you can make adjustments before continuing to open in the main Photoshop programme.

Whilst I do not understand the reason for this, my main question is related to the default alterations made to the image in this initial window. For some reason, the colours of the images (compared to when I open the jpeg files) are made much flatter, and generally a little over exposed.

I have tried everything I can in the settings of this initial opening window, but I cannot get the image to open in it's true colours.

Please can someone tell me what to do?

Thanks
Chris

[donoreo]

Look up some of the tutorials here on using RAW files, they will explain it better than I can. RAW files will open in Adobe Camera RAW to be converted to something else (jpg, tff, etc).

[GeoffWessex]

Make the alterations you want in Adobe Camera Raw..... and then set those settings as the defaults (see the very small menu on top of the Sliders, just above the White Balance box, on the right - "Save New Camera Raw Defaults).

It's possible that you've made settings on your camera to boost Contrast, Saturation and/or Sharpness - (which only affect Jpegs).If you think your Jpegs are more saturated or better exposed, make the default settings of ACR do the same.

Raw files are exactly that - unaffected by anything other than the exposure set on the camera. Even the White Balance is set by ACR, from the data that the camera gives the Raw file.

Adobe Camera Raw does not convert your Raws to Tiff or Jpeg files - it either saves them immediately in their original format (but with the XMP 'sidecar' file) or simply opens them in PS or PSE for further editing and then saving in your required format.

[donoreo]

Yes, my mistake on the conversion process, I meant that it allows you to convert once in PS.