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Could use some help with LR3 processing X1 RAW


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I generally shoot JPGs, but would like to shoot RAW and take advantage of the LR3 I received when I purchased the camera, but I know little of the processing steps most recommended. Basically, I need some advice on the order and recommended adjustments when processing RAW files with LR3.

 

I know this topic has been addressed extensively for using LR3 in general, but I'm interested in Leica X1 Forum advice.

 

Any inputs would be appreciated. Thanks.

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If you're asking about the Develop module in LR, then the theory of it is that one should start at the top of the right-hand panel, and work downwards, using the sliders to tweak your image's tonal, colour, sharpness, noise-level as you see fit. Not a bad idea to push the sliders to extremes just to get a feel for what they do. You can always "undo" at any time.

 

It's sometimes useful to make a "Virtual Copy" of your file if you want to do something "extreme" like a B&W conversion that you might want to keep hold of, while still being able to get back to your original file. The key thing to remember, though, is that LR edits are non-destructive - they just work by adding metadata to your files, not by editing actual pixels like Photoshop and many other image-processing apps do. So you can always get back to your original file by searching back to the start of the history pane (in the left-hand panel of the Develop module). And virtual copies are just metadata as well. so they won't clutter up your drives.

 

There's lots of stuff around on the web that will help you - depending on your learning style you might want to check out Martin Evening's LR3 book, or the Luminous Landscape site's video tutorials - though remember LR3 is now "last year's model", and you might want to get LR4 and the books/videos relating to that if you're thinking of sticking with LR. I'd recommend it, but YMMV...

 

Jim

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Nothing magic about the X1 that any general LR guide won't cover. In addition to those mentioned, a good primer with lots of tips is Scott Kelby's book (LR 4 version due in May). The bad jokes are easily ignored.

 

Jeff

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Nothing magic about the X1 that any general LR guide won't cover. In addition to those mentioned, a good primer with lots of tips is Scott Kelby's book (LR 4 version due in May). The bad jokes are easily ignored.

 

Jeff

 

I have no trouble with the jokes; it's the writing/presentation style that I find off-putting. But the book is cheap enough and does provide useful information, especially if you jump around to specific topics.

 

Harry

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Consider changing default from Adobe standard to camera standard or making it a preset if you use other cameras.

 

Set color space to Adobe 1998

 

Then get white balance correct.

 

Then use exposure to set brightness, use recovery if you have to get mid tones too dark to bring highlights in gamut. Turn on indicators. Do not use brightness.

 

Use local control (K) if recovery is insufficient.

 

Use fill light to boost shadows if necessary.

 

Adjust contrast saturation and clarity to suit.

 

Move to curves panel and set

 

Move to details , sharpening and noise control, and set

 

Go back to local controls and tough up anything required.

 

This will suffice for 95% of photos.

 

Look up http://www.Adobe.tv and watch the tutorials on LR. Free site.

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Plenty of other approaches work fine. The key is to first understand how the controls actually work and produce change, so that the desired outcome can achieved logically rather than through trial and error. B/W and color may involve different flows. In LR 3, the black slider is often key in my b/w printing, and the brightness control is not off limits. In LR 4, there are much better controls affecting shadow versus highlight areas, requiring far less back and forth often required in LR 3 due to overlapping controls.

 

And for b/w, for warmer or cooler effects, one can choose to use the split-toning controls (perhaps only for shadows) or instead rely on different papers. Pros and cons. Many choices.

 

Jeff

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I generally shoot JPGs, but would like to shoot RAW and take advantage of the LR3 I received when I purchased the camera, but I know little of the processing steps most recommended. Basically, I need some advice on the order and recommended adjustments when processing RAW files with LR3.

 

I know this topic has been addressed extensively for using LR3 in general, but I'm interested in Leica X1 Forum advice.

 

Any inputs would be appreciated. Thanks.

Before you buy any books, search the Adobe site for excellent video tutorials which will get you up and running.

 

Lightroom will recognize the X1 when it processes shots from that camera.

 

I suggest you get LR, using your unused TAN number. You should receive the latest version. Then practise using tutorials as a starting point. Specific questions can be answered here or in the Adobe Forum. The latter is excellent with useful FAQs and a search button. I have received useful ansers very quickly, often from Adobe staff or consultants.

 

Martin Evening's books are very good and I use them for reference and honing techniques. Kelby's is not my style, I'm afraid.

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