S50 and RAW processing

[designbysue]

I have an s50 with underwater case and also a 20D, but unfortunately I can't afford the case yet. I took my photos this last trip using RAW in the hopes of being able to adjust the color better. The 20D came with a program to work on RAW images (Professional Digital or something like that) so I figured I could use it to do the work. NOT - that program will not read the S50's RAW format (anyone know if there is anyway to make it?) Anyway, after a call to Canon, I was told I have to use Image Browser. Now after seeing the program with the 20D, I am very disappointed with Image Browser, it is so limited. Now, my question: Is Image Browser what others are using to work on their RAW images from the S50 or is there another choice. I have PS 7, have not upgraded to CS yet, but wondering if that is the answer. What I have been doing is using the eyedropper in Image Browser to select a white spot to correct the white balance. This gives me a clearer image, no blue, but with no color depth. I've tried the other parts of Image Browser, but with no great results. I have been exporting as tif and working in PS. Is this the best way to work? Thanks in advance for any help.

 

[alcina]

IMHO, yes, that would be the answer. Upgrade to CS2 - it's incredible! And I don't spend much time in PS. Most of the stuff you are going to want to do to a RAW image is handled in Adobe's ACR with CS2 - it gives a great level of control. As you already have PS it should be a matter of upgrading, I think you can do that online.

I haven't even installed the program that came with my Canon 20D so can't offer any help there.

I don't work in TIFF...I work, generally, on the RAW file in ACR and then save as a PSD. I think a lot are using Adobes new DNG (?) format, but I haven't changed over yet.

 

[designbysue]

I can't upgrade just yet - you see I need to get the entire suite for both Mac and Windows as I use both platforms and need all of the programs - so the simple $169 upgrade for PS on one platform doesn't make sense right now. Anyone else working under my handicaps? (Although I did speak to Canon and it seems I don't have the correct software installed - mine is not working in the RAW conversion program but rather in the File Viewer - so I will reinstall tonight and see if it goes better.)

 

[hvulin]

try pixmantec raw shooter essentials 2005

it's free and works great

 

[designbysue]

Thanks for that suggestion. I am working on a Mac now ( will try your suggestion on my Windows machine at some point) With a search on Google I found RAW Developer and for $99 I have been able to convert the files to a point that I can work with them in PS. Still working out the bugs of RAW Developer, but have to say that the tech department, though they don't take phone calls, do respond to email quickly. Thanks again, I will definately check out pixmantec.