camera RAW
Processing RAW data
The unprocessed RAW data can be optimized by the latest image-editing software from Adobe.
Variables such as bit depth, white balance, brightness, contrast, saturation and sharpness can all
be assigned as part of the conversion process. Performing these image-editing tasks on the full
high-bit RAW data (rather than making these changes after the fi le has been processed by the
camera) enables the user to achieve a higher quality end-result. Double-clicking a RAW fi le opens
the camera RAW dialog box where the user can prepare and optimize the fi le for fi nal processing
in the normal image-editing interface. If the user selects the 16 Bits/Channel option, the 12 bits
per channel data from the image sensor is rounded up - each channel now capable of supporting
32,769 levels instead of the 256 we are used to working with in 8 bits per channel. When the fi le is
opened into the image-editing workspace of your Adobe software the RAW fi le closes and remains
in its RAW state, i.e. unaffected by the processing procedure.
Processing activity
Although the camera RAW dialog box appears a little daunting at fi rst sight, it is reasonably intuitive
and easy to master, and then RAW image processing is a quick and relatively painless procedure.
The dialog box has been cleverly organized by Adobe so the user starts with the top slider and
works their way down to the bottom control slider. If the image you are processing is one of a group
of images shot in the same location, and with the same lighting, the settings used can be applied
to the rest of the images as an automated procedure.
White balance - Step 1
The fi rst task is to set the white balance by choosing one of the presets from the drop-down menu.
If a white balance was performed in the camera the ‘As Shot’ option can be selected. If none of
the presets adjust the color to your satisfaction you can manually adjust the ‘Temperature’ and
‘Tint’ sliders to remove any color cast present in the image. The ‘Temperature’ slider controls the
blue/yellow color balance whilst the ‘Tint’ slider controls the green/magenta balance. Moving both
the sliders in the same direction controls the red/cyan balance.