What software/equipment is available for viewing highly detailed digital images?

February 19, 2009 7:31 AM

What software/equipment is available for viewing highly detailed digital images?

I am a product photographer at my company and my workflow is extremely frustrating! After I take a shot I can only view images using one of the following methods:

1. Viewing the images on the camera's tiny LCD display
Problem: Too small to see composition

2. Transferring the image via USB mini cable to my Mac and then viewing it through Camera RAW
Problem: Extremely slow import; cannot use camera while this is taking place

3. Taking the memory card out and putting it into a card reader which will then import my images so that I can view them in Camera RAW
Problem: Faster method than USB option but still time consuming

I need to be able to view my images in a large format so that I can move objects ever-so-slightly into the right position or adjust the lighting. Is there some kind of software or equipment available that isn't thousands of dollars? I've seen Better Light scanning equipment and the least expensive set is $6,500.

Is there another option for viewing digital images that is less time consuming?

posted by pixelnark to technology (9 comments total)

You don't mention what kind of camera you're using, but many DSLRs and even advanced point-and-shoots have a "tethering" mode where you can use your computer's screen as a giant preview, including zooming in to 100%. The image is transferred over USB2 in real-time. You'll need software from the original camera manufacturer, or a 3rd-party tool such as Aperture, to do this. Alternatively, some high-end DSLRs now include HDMI out for connection to HDTVs.
posted by squid patrol at 7:42 AM on February 19

What squid patrol said. At my work we're using a Canon Rebel XSi which cost about $700 and came with real-time image preview and image capture software in the box. If you need a better camera than that, the newer hi-end Canons all interface with the same software (I believe).
posted by sleevener at 7:47 AM on February 19

Thirding tethered shooting. You may have to find some software if your camera didn't come with it. Aperture will do it, Lightroom will do it, and depending on your camera you may be able to find a free application.
posted by echo target at 7:48 AM on February 19

Canon EOS-1D Mark II. I found this quickly: http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1085
Thanks!
posted by pixelnark at 7:49 AM on February 19

Just bear in mind that tethering goes through batteries rapidly. I'm not sure why this is but I know from experience that a tethered shoot can knock the battery out of my 40D in about 20 minutes of three shot per minute shooting.

So... a power supply for the camera is a good thing to consider if you do go with the tethered mode.

Oh... another thing... the cable attach point for tethers is usually very under-engineered and weak, even on cameras such as the Canon 1D series. They used to be better but now they are really, really fragile. You need to work out some sort of strain relief system for the tether cable so that little weight or twisting force is applied to the camera-end connector or you'll soon find the connection failing and it is a guaranteed trip back to the factory service facility. I use a bracket I fabricated that supports the cable independently from the camera.
posted by bz at 9:30 AM on February 19

How about the WFT-E1
posted by aubilenon at 9:56 AM on February 19

Oh, THAT. WiFi is INCREDIBLY slow. I've tried that, too. Way too sluggish for any sort of work flow.
posted by bz at 10:01 AM on February 19

Maybe an EyeFi?
posted by blue_beetle at 12:25 PM on February 19

I've been plugging the camera into an electrical socket instead of using the battery. This way I don't have to worry about recharging. If anybody has used EyeFi and it's decent at transferring files then it might be worth the purchase.
posted by pixelnark at 1:03 PM on February 19