New cataloging functions/sizes for LR3

[loondude]

Good day all:

Despite several hours of web search, I was not able to get a definitive answer as to whether LR3 has improved cataloging capabilities. Has anyone heard anything on this topic? I need to settle on a cataloging software soon.

Thanks so much for the input!


Randy

[johnbeardy]

I'd always say you should try it for yourself, as it's currently free.  A lot depends on where you're coming from - eg if you've been using a multiuser app, then no it's not changed and you might be dissatisfied. If you've come from iView, then

Overall it continues to have the same strengths as before. As before it shows you where your files are physically located, as well as offering virtual folders. Obvious changes are managing videos, also CMYK and Lab files, which is a big deal if you need them. Less obvious is improved performance with big catalogues. So I'd say incremental change rather than a big step. As one might expect from Adobe, a lot more effort has gone into the imaging side with significantly better rendition, noise treatment, and lens distortion correction also coming in the final release.

John

[loondude]

John:

Thanks for the reply. I have tried the LR3 beta 1, but only on a very limited basis. Not enough to really assess its catalog functions very well.
I have read Peter's book, and was already to move to Expression Media as my cataloging software, but am concerned about its lack of support and possible abandonment.
I don't need to have multiple users for my catalog, but would like to be able to have access to all my files via one large catalog, or to have several smaller catalogs open at the same time.
Mac based as mentioned.

I am a Nikon shooter, use Image Ingester  Pro, Photoshop CS4, occ. NX2.  Had dabbled with several iterations of Aperture, but gave up due to lack of support.

Am leaning towards LR3 because of its tight integration with CS4, and expected life span/support.

I am certainly open to other options.

I currently have about 2 TB of image files to manage, and it grows at a fairly steady rate, so really need to get this issue sorted out.

Thanks again.

Randy

[johnbeardy]

OK, then I think it's as good as anything out there for photographs. I'm not sure what 2Tb equates to in terms of file numbers, but I work with someone whose LR2 catalogue is over 250k and growing, and our LR3 test has been fine. One other positive DAM point is that LR isn't limited to one brand of computer, so you've got access to a bigger ecosystem of plug-ins and other ways of getting help or advice.

John

[peterkrogh]

Also keep in mind that we won't really know how LR3 works with large libraries until release. Optimization of the performance code is one of the last parts of software development, so the betas don't give you an accurate picture of functionality in the release version.
Peter