D60 - RAW Conversions

[gdstaples]

I just purchased a new D60 and had a question on converting RAW images:

When you open a RAW image in the ZoomBrowser EX it looks perfect (just as I viewed it on camera LCD). I can then choose to save the RAW image from the ZoomBrowser as a JPG. Looks great.

When I run images through the RAW image converter it doesn't look even close to the same as when viewed in the ZoomBrowser and exported to JPG. Am I missing something or are there extra steps that I need to take to ensure the same result as when viewed via the ZoomBrowser EX?

Thanks in advance,
Duncan

[Roger_Cavanagh]

Duncan,

You might like to consider the e-booklet of raw workflow from http://www.outbackphoto.com/booklets/booklets.html. It gives a good overview for newcomers to this area.

To answer your question directly and briefly, yes, you did miss something. :) Converted raw images do typically need a significant amount of postprocessing, but that is the point of developing an efficient workflow.

I have described my workflow http://www.rogercavanagh.com/library/t11_workflow.htm

I would also suggest that you consider using BreezeBrowser (USD35) and Downloader (free) from www.breezesys.com. ZoomBrowser is just not a very good piece of software. You will find more explanation about using these programs in my article.

Regards,

[TonyKInTexas]

I can attest to BreezeBrowser. I just acquired my D30 and like shooting RAW and doing the conversions with BB.

It is a good value and a good program.

Take care,

[gdstaples]

Thanks guys I will check the BB out and give the post-flight article a read today. I am trying to figure out a good workflow solution as I just landed a large account shooting sports apparel (digtal). I shoot the product on stinger-green or chroma-key blue, then run a series of actions on the photographs to try to end up with a perfect shot everytime. Since this is all studio work with strobes it should be fairly straight forward but the RAW conversion was throwing me off a bit.

Duncan

[gmitchel]

When you saved the RAW images, did you save them as a linear RAW file? If you check the linear option, the image will look extremely dark. No adjustments will be made for sharpness, saturation, and contrast.

If you do not save RAW files as a linear file, they should look a lot like the JPEG image.

Cheers,

Mitch