Technical

Camera metadata (Exif) is available for about 90% of the images in my posts. Panorama shots, which represent about 10% of the images on this photoblog, typically lack metadata. Also missing metadata (obviously) are scans from film negatives and slides.

I used a Canon A1 for film photography. I digitized negatives and slides using an Epson Perfection V550 scanner. From August 2009 through June 2010, I used a compact Panasonic DMC-FX35 camera. In June 2010, I bought a Panasonic GF1, though a few times when traveling light or when there was water hazard involved, I used the FX-35.

For two years, I used the GF1 with an Olympus 14-42mm lens, appreciating the clever collapsible design. However, in July 2012 I replaced it with a Panasonic 14-45mm lens, believing the image quality might be better. Also, in June 2012 I added a Panasonic 45-200mm lens. In 2019, I upgraded from the Panasonic GF1 to the GH5. I also have a 25mm lens, but primarily use the 14-45mm lens.

I retain the original camera JPG files offline, as well as the RAW files from the GF1 and GH5.

I use Google’s Picasa 3 for simple adjustments to contrast, color, fill light, and to prepare reduced-size images. For images that need more advanced functions, I use Corel PaintShop Pro X4.

I prepare panoramas using Microsoft ICE, a free program which has a very fast algorithm for preparing panoramas.

I tried several freeware programs for stitching a number of shots taken with exposure bracketing into a single High Dynamic Range (HDR) photo, but wasn’t satisfied with the results. Therefore, in May 2012 I purchased a copy of Photomatix Essentials, and I am presently using that for my HDR efforts.