Just learning RAW processing - Questions

When I first got my 30D, I shot in JPEG. However, I was suggested to shoot in RAW in order to have much more flexibility in PP. So I gave it a shot. Unfortunately, I thought it was a rather painfull process. At that time, all I had was CS2.

First, I had to OPEN every picture ONE by ONE to just preview it. Since it was shot in RAW, there were no thumbnails. This was by far the biggest drawback.

Then, I had to apply the corrections one by one. This wasn't so bad as this is how I did JPEG as well. I never messed with actions or bach processing. I still have yet to do this, thought I definitely want to learn!

However, I now learned about Adobe Bridge (raw thumnail previews) and want to start shooting in RAW again. I also currently have CS3 and Lightroom, of which I heard is a LOT more "RAW friendly"

With that said, what would you guys recommend for RAW processing? Should I just use CS3 as it's "better"? Or should I start with Lightroom then integrate for the more advanced orrections? I basically want to find the most efficient way to sift through newly shot photos, delete the ones that I don't want, and do the basic corrections on the "keepers".

It would also be nice if I could learn some organizations with albums, tagging, etc. I believe LR supports this, correct?

Any help is appreciated

Do you have the CD that came with your camera?

Canon Digitial Photo Pro will be on there. It does awesome RAW processing (batch, etc)

The latest version (actually just an update) is on the Canon site. You just need to have the 'base' program on the computer from the CD.


This is free.

I am looking to migrate to Lightroom when I improve my computer. LR has certain additional functions I'm starting to like more and more. Right now though it is hammering my HDD swap file LOL
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If you have Lightroom and CS3 you have a very powerful combination. I would use Lightroom for as much as possible and then if you need to work with layers, filters, or want more advanced sharpening you can then open the image in CS3. Lightroom and CS3 integrate well, so I think you enjoy the experience. Lightroom's RAW processor is very nice which will contribute to a better experience.

pgiancola wrote in post #3614380
If you have Lightroom and CS3 you have a very powerful combination. I would use Lightroom for as much as possible and then if you need to work with layers, filters, or want more advanced sharpening you can then open the image in CS3. Lightroom and CS3 integrate well, so I think you enjoy the experience. Lightroom's RAW processor is very nice which will contribute to a better experience.

Ditto!

Buy some books to help you learn how to use each program as well. I like Scott Kelby's books.