Raw processing and converting to whatever format question...

[mcneguy]

Ok, all I hear is that the software that came with my 10d is crap and I should use Breezebrowser or CL1 (I think) to post process and convert my raw files. Now, is that because the free software is just slow (I hear that complaint all the time) or is it just no good at doing what it is supposed to do.

Also, does Photoshop Elements work with 16 bit tiff?

Thanks so much..

[scottbergerphoto]

The free Canon FVU is difficult to use and causes many hardware/software problems. BreezeBrowser uses the same conversion engine, Canon SDK, but without the problems and alot more functionality.

No, PSE2 will not open 16bit tiff files. You have to convert to 8bit. If you make an error and try to open a 16bit file, PSE2 will tell you and ask if you want to convert to 8bit.
Scott

[CyberDyneSystems]

Actually,. the Canon Softeware does a damn fine job of it.. it just is cumbersome.. and pretty slow.

But otherwise it does the task VERY well.

You will still want to do a little tweeking in PS Elements.. like sharpening, levels, cropping etc.. but in reality you can do almost all of what we do with the pricier toys with the bundeled software.

Try the Canon stuff,. see what you think. If you find your self wanting more,. a good place to start are the free trilas of BreezeBrowser and Capture1 LE

However,. Elements will not wrok in 16bit...

[scottbergerphoto]

Sorry, but I have to disdagree with you on this CDS. I and many others have had alot of problems with FVU. Whenever I try to look at Raw files in FVU I get alot of error messages that I never see in BreezeBrowser. I posted that issue last year and was sent to BreezeBrowser.
Here's one such thread: http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=12928&highlight=
Regards,
Scott

[dtrayers]

In theory since BB and FVU both use the same conversion 'engine' they should create the same results as long as the parameters are the same.

However, BB also has 'Smart Noise Reduction' that in my experience helps with those mid-iso pictures. It's especially useful for the G- and S- series cameras with their smaller sensors. SNR is on by default, and that could be some of the difference.

IMO, BB is worth the expense for the better interface, the SNR, and the ability to create web pages.

[JZaun]

I am using Canon supplied software and other than it being slow it works fine. I have not had any problems and feel sure that I will not spend any $$$ on other software unless I do. Now I do have a fairly new PC. It has Win XP with all updates!, 2 ghz proc and 512 mem. I find canon software easy to use..All I want dto do is convert raw to Tiff and save on the hard drive. From then on out it is PS E2.

Just my thoughts

JZaun