DAM Workflow

[jldodge]

Okay ... I need some input/suggestions from the experts. I have a copy of the DAM book, have read it a couple of times and am still learning. I have two tracks -- 1) scanning family pictures from my dad's 35mm film library (likely using TIFF format) and 2) organizing DSLR photography where I generate both Nikon RAW and JPEG images. I am not a professional photographer ... yet ... but enjoy the hobby immensely.

I am settling in on the following workflow: ImageIngester Pro (ingestion and DNG conversion), Extensis Portfolio (cataloguing), Lightroom (photo editing), Photoshop (more extensive editing once I gain more experience).

A couple of objctives: I would like to keep the RAW, JPEG, and DNG files linked, I would like to embed as much metadata into the file as I can so that it stays with the picture in case I switch to other SW later, and, despite my previous objective, I would like to stay with SW that has long term viability (creature of habit!!).

What are the software compatibilities should I be concerned about? Can Lightroom provide most/all of the cataloguing features that Portfolio provides? In terms of the overall workflow, what comments/recommendations would you have? Any other suggestions about something that I have not considered or should evaluate?

Thanks in advance for any help ...

[johnbeardy]

If you only have photographs, I'm not sure what benefit Portfolio will provide for you. Lightroom includes cataloguing and editing.

John

[rogerhoward]

Can Lightroom provide most/all of the cataloguing features that Portfolio provides?

No, but that doesn't mean it's not adequate - even superior - for your needs. Things you can't do (at least directly) in Lightroom, vs Portfolio, with respect to cataloging features:

1. User-defined fields. If you want to create custom fields to hold additional data, you're out of luck without writing an LR plugin, and even then there are limitations (no writing the values to XMP!!)
2. No import/export of metadata, other than via LR plugins (again).

That said, I'm not sure what Portfolio would gain you in this workflow if those aren't dealbreakers - Portfolio lacks many things LR does easily.

- Roger Howard