2 other RAW questions

[jimsolt]

It was tempting to join in the other current RAW discussion with this, but I thought it enough different to warrant a new topic.

1) I currently process RAW using Photoshop Elements 3. I see more and more references to other RAW converters. Is there a real difference between programs? If I am content with PE3, should I just stay with it?

2) Is it possible/desirable to mix 2 RAW formats on the same CF card? I'm thinking of CRW and CR2. Would it be best to not do this and keep the cards exclusively for one camera or the other?

And yes, for those not familiar with Photoshop Elements 3, it is compatible with both formats if you have the latest upgrade.

Thanks,
Jim

[PacAce]

Regarding #2, it really doesn't matter what other types of files you have in the CF card. You can even put in Word docs and html pages in there if you want, the camera isn't going to care although they would be taking up that much more space which the camera can't use.

The other thing to watch out for when you do use the same card in two or more different cameras is that you are going to mess up the sequential numbering of the files of the camers. They'll all use the highest sequence number found in the card.

[jimsolt]

AHA! Good point about the sequence. That alone answers the question for me.

Now onto Q#1 . . .

Thanks,
Jim

[PacAce]

AHA! Good point about the sequence. That alone answers the question for me.

Now onto Q#1 . . .

Thanks,
Jim

To put it simply, if you're happy with what PSE3 is giving your as far as raw conversion is concerned,then there's no reason to go elsewhere. However, you may never know how much better things could possibly be if you don't at least try out the other converters.

But I tend to think like you, too, tough. I have PSCS and EVU and DPP. Why do I need something else that I need to pay for? :confused:
:D

[Scottes]

Yes, there are difference. Often quite noticable in picture quality, but always noticable in the workflow. All RAW converters have some distinct workflow differences, though some are subtle.

If if ain't broken, don't fix it. But I find the PS CS RAW converter - and I'll have to assume that PSE's is very similar - to have the slowest workflow out of all RAW converters that I've tried, and I don't think I missed any of them. But that's just my opinion - PSE's workflow might suit you fine.

Also, it can take some time investment to try them all out, and some aren't worth trying unless you want it for free - and I think RawShooter is the only one that fits that price tag. (OK, BreezeBrowser used to have a free version and I'd assume they still do. Minor limitations for the free version.) If you have the time, try them out.

[tim]

Each RAW convertor's different, don't necessarily better or worse.