Windows includes basic IPTC metadata
editing functionality, but quality image
database software should also include batch
processing functionality that enables you to
rename large numbers of images in one go
using custom data fields.
The next way to extra long-term work is
to keep a hierarchically ordered collection
of keywords, sometimes known as a
‘thesaurus’. For example, the hierarchy
‘Camera/Nikon/D7000’ automatically applies
any higher-ranking keywords along with the
lowest-level keyword – in other words, if you
add the keyword ‘D7000’ to an image, it will
automatically be tagged with the terms
‘Camera’ and ‘Nikon’ as well. Some
databases have a built-in thesaurus, while
others require you to build your own from
the ground up.
Building your own thesaurus is often the
best approach, as it allows you to define and
order your own keywords. The complexity of
your thesaurus will depend on the number
and complexity of the subjects your photos
cover. If you aim to sell your images
internationally, a multilingual thesaurus like
the ones built into Cumulusand eyebase
mediasuiteare a real bonus.File Export and
Publishing Functionality
Databases really come into their own when
you begin to use them not just for managing
but also for distributing and publishing your
work. The functions you can apply during
image export vary enormously, ranging from
simple scaling all the way up to RAW
processing. For home users, the export
features and image processing tools built into
single-user solutions like Lightroomand
Apertureare usually sufficient for most needs.
On the other hand, commercial users
require dedicated, often complex workflows
in order to keep images flowing as efficiently
as possible from the photographer to theeditorial team and on to the layout
department and the printer. This is the level
at which pro-grade image database tools
begin to leave their home-use counterparts
behind.Our Conclusions So Far
A well-maintained image database that you
set up to suit your own needs will speed up
your digital photo workflow and help you to
find just the right photo for the job at hand.
But remember: a database requires a lot
more user input and maintenance than a
simple image browser. At the end of the day,
the solution you choose will depend on the
size of your archives and how you plan
to use your images. Once you are familiar
with typical stumbling blocks like RAW
compatibility, file import limitations,
metadata details and thumbnail caching, you
will be able to find just the right software and
avoid making common mistakes once you
have set it up.Image Database Software | File ExportRAW format
recognition is still
a fairly haphazard
feature in most
image databases.
As one of only a
few programs,
Media Prowarns
the user of any
unrecognized
formats. In
spite of these
shortcomings,
a dedicated
database is still
a better choice
than the file
management
tools built into
most operating
systems.