Why
would you choose the linear 16-bit mode?
RAW
files converted to Linear 16-bit mode have broader dynamic
range and color information (larger color gamut). In addition,
linear 16-bit files are free of any sharpening algorithms
and therefore images will have even lower noise levels
then non-linear (normal) 16-bit images. The linear image
provides
image data without any processing with the full sensor dynamic
range. The 16 bit’s file gives you 4096 points accuracy
versus 255 in 8 bit images and therefore more room for post-processing
preserving original dynamic range.
Previously,
the linear 16-bit mode could not batch several images, and
it was a bit complicated to use if you didin't feel comfortable
editing images in Photoshop. Now, it is a dream come true
for those who strive for the highest image quality and control
in post processing. With the new LPbatch, all users now
have access to the best image output the Canon EOS D60 can
provide.
A very high
quality custom linear ICC profile is included with this
action for ultimate image accuracy. The
combination of linear file + Custom ICC profile eliminates
banding completely and provides accurate colors + cleaner
files for your professional needs. In addition the most
sophisticated custom made sharpening technique is built-in
and available for every saturation option.
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Profiled
image after D60 LPbatch
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This
action works with the Auto white balance and RAW mode. However,
for better results I recommend using Custom white balance sampled
from a Kodak gray card. With LPbatch as your post-editing tool,
all you need to do before you shoot is concentrate on composition.
Leave your post-editing work aside and let the action complete
it for you with its smart algorithms.
Another
added feature is that LPbatch can be used efficiently
with Photoshop's batch mode. Just choose your desired parameter
and let Photoshop run though hundreds of images at once! (It's
a bit slower than the D30 LPbatch but with much higher quality
now!)
D60
LPbatch is
compatible with Photoshop 6 and 7 (PC and MAC) - All
Photoshop languages (Japanese, German etc.) *Not
compatible with Photoshop 5, 5.5, LE or Elements
I have
noticed a few discussions on the net about the "softness"
of D60 images. Some people have even mentioned negative feelings
about using the Auto white balance. In my opinion, the D60 is
capable of delivering top image quality. However, the camera's
highest image quality is sometimes masked by the 16-bit linear
mode.
Canon provided
us with the tools on how to convert our D60 RAW files into 16-bit
linear mode files, but forgot
to tell us what to do with them afterwards. The result is a
dark, unusable image, that is difficult to profile. Now the
D60
LPbatch
Photoshop action comes to the rescue!
With these
actions, the linear mode offers similar or better parameter
choices than the normal (non-linear) RAW files are capable of.
As you can see below there are two different sets of output
available. 1.
sRGB:
Optimized for web or monitor presentation output. 2.
Adobe RGB:
a larger color-space gamut. The preferred choice when printing
your images.
As an example,
check out the options of the new D60
- LPbatch:
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Everything
is automated for you!
D60
LPbatch v2.3
provides:
Four
(4) levels of saturation.
(Low, Normal, High, and Very
high)
FIVE
(5) levels of sharpening (no,
low, normal, high, and Very high)
Two
(2) levels of Contrast (low
and normal)
However, it does not use the usual Photoshop saturation
features that have been known to shift colors and
increase noise and artifacts in images. The new saturation
increase technique used in this action is a unique
concept. It works in 16-bit mode and there is NO color
shifting or noise/artifact increase. The sharpening
algorithms are sophisticated and sharpen no only the
edges of your subjects but the global image as well
(without noise or artifact increase). This results
in cleaner and more natural looking images.
Examples:
Examples
workflow:
D60
LPbatch samples workflow: Linear tiff 16-bit, D60 LPbatch,
resized to width: 400 pixels, USM: 300, 0.2, 0
D60
non-linear file
samples workflow: Non-linear
tiff 16-bit, resized to width: 400 pixels, USM: 300, 0.2, 0
D60
LPbatch
(normal
saturation, normal sharpening)
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D60
non-linear file
(normal
saturation, normal sharpening, normal contrast)
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Images
converted using the D60 LPbatch have a higher dynamic
range and higher color accuracy. Also images will
have less sharpening artifacts and lower noise.
Example
2:
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D60
LPbatch
(normal
saturation, normal sharpening)
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D60
non-linear file
(normal
saturation, normal sharpening, normal contrast)
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Again, better
dynamic range and color accuracy
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