Phuket Thailand

LivinLOS · #1 10-03-2007, 11:01

Looking at my snaps.. Theres a few I want to do some very simple adjustments, things like adjust the contrast, increase color vibrancy, basic touch ups.

Having used PSP, photoshop and other high end packages they are usually a bit too complex and full on for me. I read theres a new Photoshop (lightwave ??) out thats I think is probably the same in being much more than I need.

Any suggestions of simple but effective ??

Or should I just go the full on route and learn how to use it better..

Coolhand · #2 10-03-2007, 11:29

What camera do you have? - Some cameras come with their own basic editing software.

ATMwalking · #3 10-03-2007, 11:35

I like my little IrfanView for quick jobs like this.

Image -> Enhance Colors

Then you can do the adjustments you want. Also has sharpen and red eye reduction.

LivinLOS · #4 10-03-2007, 13:14

Didnt even consider IRFanView..

I think I have a DVD with PS CS2 on it somewhere but last time I used it, it was much more than I wanted..

Anyone used elements ?? Seems about the level I am shooting for ??

ATMwalking · #5 10-03-2007, 13:38

I used an old version of elements. Doesn't give you to much control.

But why junk up your system with bloat-ware for basic image manipulation. 1 meg vs. hundreds. Anything Adobe seems to put a lot of overhead on the system. Not worth it IMO.

steve@thaib · #6 10-03-2007, 16:16

I have elements as well as CS2, and Elements is really all you need.

If you have CS2 loaded up already, just try loading a picture and go to:

Image - adjustments - brightness/contrast.

I normally find that boosting the brightness to around 3 and the contrast to 12-15 is all the adjustment a picture needs.

Most manufacturers seem to set cameras up to under expose slightly in order to maintain the detail in the highlights (bright areas - sky etc.), boosting these two levels brings the detail out and makes the colours 'pop'

You could also write an Action in photoshop that would run those commands for you, so all you have to do is load the image and press a button. I'll write the action if you want.

Don't give up on CS2, everything else is less.

Nicke · #7 10-03-2007, 18:57

I also recommend using auto levels on photos, to remove greyish.

Coolhand · #8 10-03-2007, 21:57

If you are going to print your photos, then you should really calibrate you monitor. as well.