DxO has a new version, Pro 8, of it's RAW conversion software. I find it to be very good. Some of you have already seen these same photos in previous posts, but I re-did them with the new software and, for me at least, definitely get better results.




 

This is a square version of the first pic, processed a little differently:




I like the square format for animal pics and will probably use it more often.

Speaking of new post-processing software, there is also a recent new addition to RAW converters called "Photo Ninja". It incorporates the famous Noise Ninja software so it's probably a good one as well. I believe it can act as a Photoshop plug-in if you use CS4 or 5 or 6.

Both of these allow you to get the most out of RAW files such as Nikon's NEF or Canon's CR.

The above pictures were taken with a very old 10 megapixel camera, a Nikon D60 and the first generation 18-200mm Nikkor zoom. I am finding that good software gets the most out of the equipment, and it's cheaper than buying a new camera. It does require some time learning to use the software. Northern European weather helps to keep me at home in front of the screen.

Wink, thanks for putting that up. I really enjoy seeing your photographs and reading your commentary.

David

I'm also going to make a plug for shooting in the RAW format, whatever your camera calls it (NEF, CR2, etc) since photos taken a few years ago can be processed now with even better results. If you thought your photo was just so-so a few years ago, you can now process it again with improved software and get some much improved results.