Download and Convert Software - what do you use?

[Mark Kemp]

I now have a D30 and a 20D and a lot of mismatched Canon software as a result.

Zoombrowser is nice and easy and will download and batch rename from a card reader or the D30 directly, but not the 20D. Plus it will copy from all the folders on a card.

EOS viewer will talk to both cameras and a card reader, but it won't batch rename easily and you have to copy each folder one at a time.
DPP will convert 20D RAW files, but not D30 and the D30 RAW converter vice versa.


So my question is - there are a lot of 3rd party programs - ACDSee, C1, Breeze browser etc. etc.

Does anyone know which, if any will cope with the following list :-

Download from a 20D, a card reader and a D30 - all folders in one go
Rename the files as they are downloaded
Create a new folder to download to
Convert RAW from D30 and 20D with good controls
Act as a general view and search utility

Plus of course any other 'handy features' you particularly like.

Your recommendations would be appreciated

[wolf]

I would say ACDSee (http://www.acdsystems.com/English/index.htm) would be your best choose. Download the free trial and see if it has the features you need. You can also download a free PDF user manual.

If you do not have Photoshop, Photoshop Elements 3 is a good alternative to Breeze Browser for Raw file processing.

[tannoy]

For myself I use C1, it is the best workflow software I have had the oppurtunity to use. It does not currently support the 20D but an update is due in November that is supposed to add the support ( I like it so much I feel like I am in handcuffs waiting). I also use Photoshop and really like the program except the workflow aspect is nowhere near as good in my opinion.

Try the demo on your D30 and see how you like the interface of C1. Everyone has their own preferences and a demo is a great way to find what you like. The other advantage is that C1 supports both Windows and Macintosh.

C1 does all of the functions on your list very well. The converter also has a very fast working interface for levels and curves and sharpening. You apply changes to every image in a folder (or select images) then after you are satisfied you hit process and walk away.

Best of luck with your decision.

Cheers,

Darrin

[PJ]

I use the Canon File Viewer Utility.
then edit in photoshotp

Is it bad to use the file viewer utility?

[ScottH]

I like Downloader Pro from Breezesys for downloading. I REALLY liked Photo Studio from Scott Professional for converting RAW, but it hasn't been updated since 2002, so doesn't support my D Rebel yet (and I don't know if it will.

I mostly use BreezeBrowser now for conversion, but will likely register C1 shortly.

Scott

[Transfix]

Photo Mechanic

[Mark Kemp]

Thanks for the assistance folks,

I was hoping for a 'clear winner' so that I wouldn't have to download too many trials. but it looks like at least ACDsee, Breezze browser and C1 will have to be on the shortlist.

Any idea where to find photo mechanic?

[IncompletePete]

I use Digital Photo Professional for my RAW work, although C1 has been recommended, just need to find somewhere to download it......for free...;)