Software for raw and jpeg workflow

HeatherHahn · #1 11-18-2006, 08:21 PM

I'm looking for a software to handle my jpeg/raw workflow. I need to be able to get through 1500 images quickly, delete what is not needed (be able to delete original files from within the program), make basic edits (would like to have exposure, white balance, color balance, levels, etc), rename, sort (both manually and by capture date/time), and the like. But would like to keep the program easy to use and FAST. I hate slow programs!

I've tried adobe lightroom beta but it is time consuming and difficult to sort manually. Also it has a feature for sorting by capture time but did not work with my files. I like everything else it has to offer (white balance/exposure easily avaliable) but without sort and rename it won't work for me. It was also pretty slow.

I tried photo mechanic a while back but don't remember what I didn't like about it, and my demo is expired so I can't try it again.

I've seen apple's aperture but it didn't thrill me at first glance- would appreciate reviews from people who have used it. Reminded me of a glorified iPhoto, which does not meet my needs.

Today I lost an entire wedding's worth of edits while using the LabPrints software to sort and rename a batch of photos. Hence I will NOT be using this junk again. Second time I have had a major error in the program where we were not able to recover files. Another reason for making more frequent backups.

thanks for your help.

Ken_Tanaka · #2 11-19-2006, 02:20 AM

PC or Mac? Newer or older?

AngelMorales · #3 11-19-2006, 02:47 AM

Hey Heather,
You might want to try looking at Bibble. You can get a free 30 day trial from them. That works with all of the accoutrements you are looking for I believe.
-Angel

HeatherHahn · #4 11-19-2006, 12:32 PM

iMac g5, 2 gig memory (right around a year old). 250 gig hard drive.

Ken_Tanaka · #5 11-19-2006, 01:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HeatherHahn

I'm looking for a software to handle my jpeg/raw workflow. I need to be able to get through 1500 images quickly, delete what is not needed (be able to delete original files from within the program), make basic edits (would like to have exposure, white balance, color balance, levels, etc), rename, sort (both manually and by capture date/time), and the like. But would like to keep the program easy to use and FAST. I hate slow programs!

I've tried adobe lightroom beta but it is time consuming and difficult to sort manually. Also it has a feature for sorting by capture time but did not work with my files. I like everything else it has to offer (white balance/exposure easily avaliable) but without sort and rename it won't work for me. It was also pretty slow.

My vote remains with Lightroom. I've now been using it solidly, daily for about one month for all of the functions you listed (and more), on RAWs and JPGs. It's been a dream, particularly for a pre-released product. In terms of speed it's been quicker than Bridge and quicker (and more full-bodied) than Bibble.

I wonder if you've spent enough time with Lightroom and/or have organized your data base to best advantage?

HeatherHahn · #6 11-19-2006, 07:23 PM

One thing that really keeps me from using Lightroom is the fact that you can't sort by filename. On the lightroom labs boards I realize I'm not the only one to miss this feature so I expect they might add it soon (hopefully). Without this my files remain unorganized (mixed up) and I can't stand working with them that way.

Ken_Tanaka · #7 11-19-2006, 08:54 PM

Well, you certainly know what's best for you, Heather.

Honestly I had not ever considered this, since my files are renamed (with the camera, date, time, and serial sequence in that order) before I bring them into Lightroom so I suppose it's never been an issue for me.

Good luck.

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