Deb’s RAW Workflow

by Deb

By Deb Tappan

My photography is such that shooting is done out in the field. Because of this, I employ a workflow that allows me to backup my images on location then process them once I’ve returned home. – DST

 

WHILE OUT IN THE FIELD:

  • Shoot using RAW mode
  • Copy CF card contents to laptop (folder hierarchy is fixed by place then date)
  • Burn DVDs of those RAW images on laptop (name DVDs sequentially)
  • Format CF cards for continued shooting

A reminder when shooting in the field:
Applying ecologically sensitive, responsible field practices are of utmost importance. As a strong proponent of wildlife/nature photography and viewing Code of Ethics as well as Leave No Trace Outdoors Ethics, I encourage you to learn more about the ways in which you can lessen your impact. More on this subject of ethics can be found
here.

ONCE BACK HOME:

  • Copy DVD(s) contents to desktop computer’s harddrive(s)
  • Synchronize digital asset management software’s catalog to include these new images
  • To this catalog add keywords, copyright, location, etc. for each image
  • Sort images for print use, web use, etc.
  • Use a RAW conversion software to convert/process image files
  • Accomplish any necessary post-processing in photo editing software
  • Save newly processed images to desktop computer’s harddrive(s)
  • Synchronize digital asset management software’s catalog to include these newly processed image files
  • To this catalog add keywords, copyright, location, etc. for each image file
  • Copy all images, catalog(s) and newly processed image files to backup external harddrive
  • All images are now ready for use

A note about “processing”:
Post-processing is kept to a minimum. My objective is to photograph nature in a manner which advances our appreciation and understanding of its intricacies. Therefore, my images are not artistic recreations but rather authentic representations of the landscapes and subjects as I’ve found them throughout my travels.

SOFTWARE:
Primary – Extensis Portfolio, DxO Optics Pro, Adobe Photoshop
Secondary – Adobe Lightroom, Nikon Capture

 

Text: Copyright Deborah Siminski Tappan.  All rights reserved.

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