Apple & RAW question

[jez-m]

Got a potentially stupid question and sorry if this has been covered before – I’ve searched and can’t find quite what I need to know.

I’m running an Apple iBook and an EOS20. It’s all very new to me. I’m using iPhoto to manage and view my photos and am perfectly happy with it. I’ve also got PS Elements 2.

However I’ve now started experimenting with RAW and am not sure what to use for processing and manipulation. iPhoto will convert RAW files but the functionality appears to be a bit basic. Is there another programme I should try? There was some software that came with the camera which I’ve not tried yet (I’ve read mixed reports on the software that comes packaged with cameras).

Also – once I’ve ‘developed’ a RAW file, does it disappear or does it remain? i.e. do I need to duplicate the file in order to preserve the original?

Thanks in advance for any tips/advice.

[jimothy]

Apple have released a product called Aperture thats designed to work with RAWs

[Bee_Jay]

Indeed, or you could try CaptureOne, but that costs money just like Aperture.

The other option is to use Adobe Camera RAW (free download from the adobe site). I think this only works with Elements 3.0 and above though.

Digital Photo Professional which comes with the 20D is VERY good though and should do everything you need.

In answer to your other question, when you convert a RAW it will output either a TIFF or a JPEG but the original RAW file remains unchanged.

>> Edited by Bee_Jay on Thursday 22 December 11:59

[jez-m]

Thanks all - very helpful.

[simpo two]

Bee_Jay said:

In answer to your other question, when you convert a RAW it will output either a TIFF or a JPEG but the original RAW file remains unchanged.

If my experiences with Nikon RAW (NEF) are correct, you need to choose 'Save As' to save as TIF or JPG. I once (not knowing any better) resaved as a NEF and it corrupted.