Example of editing from RAW

[plbh]

Soon after I got my Canon 20D, I started shooting in RAW+JPEG, though I didn't really know what to do with the RAW files. This image taken after dawn in west Connecticut had a dark foreground and bright sky (JPEG from camera, just resized):

http://www.pbase.com/image/40754451

I tried using the RAW via Canon's Digital Photo Professional and edited it in Photoshop Elements 2 (both came with the camera) to lighten the foreground:

http://www.pbase.com/plbh/image/40749936

Recently I got Photoshop CS, and I just downloaded Adobe Camera Raw. Here's the new version processed and edited with that software:

http://www.pbase.com/plbh/image/36166483

I'm just starting to learn this stuff, and I'm sure I could have done a better job with the older software. But I think the ability to edit in 16-bit mode does help in this situation. Any advice welcome!

[neovolatile]

Good job! Look at Adjustment Layers as probably the neatest thing Adobe has ever sold us.

Again, good job on processing,
Ellsworth Weaver
http://www.pbase.com/neovolatile

[uese]

you're on the right track buddy!

If you learn what raw can do for you you'll NEVER shoot jpg-only anymore!!!

a starters tip for raw: you can easily go one stop down compared to jpg to increase shutter speed (or reduce iso, eg. noise-level) since you can easily correct aperture afterwards...

[ukexpat]

One tip -- get hold of this book on the Adobe Raw Converter, well worth the price:

http://tinyurl.com/5waxo

[plbh]

Thanks for all the advice!

[dominik]

I only have PS Elements 2, does it do a good job with RAW? I have a Canon DRebel but have never shot in RAW.