I really have to learn how to use RAW, book suggestion?

[paulhillion]

I just can't get to grips with processing raw images :confused:. I'm using PSCS on a Mac and not for lack of trying I still find it easier to work with jpegs. If I do shoot a raw image I just open it up in PS, tweak the WB and maybe the exposure and then click ok and continue to work on it using PS's default tools..curves/levels/usm etc. I have it in my head that I should be doing more adjustments whilst it's open in the raw plugin, or am I wrong? If I think the image might be printed at some stage I guess i should be saving it as a tif file once it's done in the raw plugin?

I remember seeing a book about raw processing recommended here, I think it was a USA book? I'd love to order it so if anyone can remember what it might be I'd be grateful.

Thanks.

[scottbergerphoto]

Real World Adobe Camera Raw by Bruce Frasier

[paulhillion]

Thanks Scott!

[Steven M. Anthony]

If I do shoot a raw image I just open it up in PS, tweak the WB and maybe the exposure and then click ok and continue to work on it using PS's default tools..curves/levels/usm etc. I have it in my head that I should be doing more adjustments whilst it's open in the raw plugin, or am I wrong?

That's frequently all I do--but that's a big step! I'll also play with "shadows," and sometimes (but not usually) contrast.

If I shot at high ISO, I use the noise reduction, and I've used the chromic abbaration correction once or twice.

The book referenced above is awesome--it's what convinced me to shoot RAW almost exclusively.

[billhercus]

Couldn't agree more about Real World Camera Raw. I found myself doing much less work in the main PSCS edit after reading that book.

Don't hesitate paulhillion!

[kraterz]

You don't really need a book. There's plenty of info on the web. And if you use alternate software such as Capture-one, raw shooter essentials or breeze browser, the interface and options are different. This forum contains plenty of info. Do a search here, and you will get some good info.