Derivative files

[robjr]

Hi Peter,

Just read the whole book, excellent. One area that I'm still somewhat unsure about is the tracking of original and derivative files. I shoot mostly landscape and nature, and I tend to make lots of derivative files from my original files (b+w, adjustments, print versions, etc.) If I keep the files in seperate iView catalogs as you suggest, how will I know whether an original file has a derivative version, and how will i be able to compare the derivatives to the original in the future in an easy manner? Basically, I'm used to seeing all versions of an image in one catalog side by side, so how do you handle this issue? Thanks!

Rob

[peterkrogh]

Rob,
If your collection will all fit in one catalog, then keep it together. (I have 31,000 image files in my 2005 catalog.)

If you don't shoot that much, and can keep everything together, that's the simple way to do it.  If you have to split it up, then I have chosen to keep derivative files separate. remember that iView can search across multiple catalogs at the same time.  Generally, I know if I am looking for a file I have made a conversion of or not.

By keeping the core of the name the same, you can always correlate the two.

Does that answer it?
Peter

[robjr]

I forgot iView can search multiple catalogs...that will work great. I may combine them anyway just for simplicity. Thanks again.

[peterkrogh]

How many images do you have?
Peter

[robjr]

I have about 3000 imgaes total, but will probaly be shooting alot more now since I've become more serious about photography. I'm also using the DNG format exclusively now (thanks to you) which should help to limit derivative files to images I really want to enhance. Although I previuosly used CaptureOne, I'll stick with ACR for the more efficient DNG format.

Also, I installed the Import from Camera script on 2 different computers, but it doesn't seem to work for me. After I select a folder w/ images (or flash card mounted onm the desktop)  and make my selections, it says "import complete", but no files are copied. Any ideas what could be wrong? I'm using CS2 and Bridge 1.03. Thanks

Rob

[peterkrogh]

Rob,
Keep it to one catalog.  MAke another when you need to.  This will make your life easier.

As the IFC, check out the thread inside DAMuseful software.  Post there if your questions are not answered.
Peter