steven_arellano

OP UPDATE:

 

I have been using both Lightroom 4 and Aperture 3 for a few days now. Early on I find myself reaching for Aperture. I just

find the UI to be more comfortable. As far as the technical side, each has it's strengths and drawbacks, but not enough to

give it a clear advantage over the other.

<p>So what I am getting is that it really comes down to personal preference. This really seems to be similar to a PC v Mac, or Coke v Pepsi debate. I guess I'll just spend 30 days with both and pick what I like best. It doesn't seem that there is any clear winner here today.</p>

<p>Wow, just so much data. So to extend the topic. What do you find is the most important feature in either of these programs. What feature do you find is missing in either of these programs?</p>

<p>It seems like the majority of you prefer Aperture. The links were very helpful. It really has me leaning back to Aperture. Since digital photography is a passion and not source of income it seems like the better choice. I think I will download the demo of both, go out and do some shooting on a wide range of subject matter and lighting then come home and run the images through both programs. </p>

<p>Jeff, you have made some good points. I was initially leaning to Aperture, but I think now I will download the trials of both and see which fits me better. Any tips on how best to compare the two?</p>

<p>Jeff, what is it about Lightroom that makes it worth the extra $200+? I get it, the beta is free and I've seen some screenshots of Lightroom 4, very nice. But at some point I will have to pay for it. </p>

<p>Okay, I've moved up to a DSLR. I am taking some awesome photos in RAW format, but that leads me to another question. Which is better for processing my RAW files, Lightroom 3 or Aperture 3. My instinct is to go with Aperture, mostly because I am a Mac guy. Ive taken a few minutes and perused both Adobe and Apple websites and other than the huge price difference I can't find many advantages one way or the other. From those of you who have used one or both, which do you find the better software? As far as the basics, uploading, tethering, etc... I am not worried. I am a computer programmer by trade so I know I will easily be able to adapt to either of these programs. What I want to know is which is technically superior?</p>

<p>Thanks for the heads up Michael. Luckily I have a newer iMac with a built in SD card reader which supports SD cards up to 2TB. But I will remember you advice if I encounter a situation where I need to use an older computer. </p>

<p>Alan brings up a good point. What is a good speed? I decided to go with SD because it is the more popular not to mention cheaper format, but if speed is that important should I go with a MemoryStick which is faster?</p>

<p>The viewfinder in the a65 was actually a big part of choosing it over a couple other SLRs I considered. The a65 uses an OLED viewfinder. OLED panels can operate in temperatures down to about -60F. Even so my little Sony Point and shoot LCD display does quite well in colder temps. Which I discovered by accidentally leaving it in the car one especially chilly night. </p>

<p>Wow, you have definitely given me something to chew on. Moving up to a real camera is certainly a big step for me and I am feeling more than a little lost. I appreciate all the advice. </p>

<p>That is one of the main reasons I went with the a65, the guys over at Sony tell me that even though the recommended operating temperature is 32F it can successfully be used in below zero temperatures for limited periods of time. But like I said, most of the time I have better sense than be out in those temperatures.</p>

<p>My concerns about shooting outdoors have more to do with temperature than moisture. Especially cold, temperatures in my region have been known to drop to -50F in winter. I doubt you'll find me out in those frigid temperatures, but rather quick temperature drops are not unusual. </p>

<p>I am a total n00b when it comes to photography. My experience is limited to a digital point and shoot. I am finally ready to step up to a real camera and have ordered the Sony a65. My question is for someone who will be doing a lot of outdoor shooting what is the most reliable SD Card? I plan on only shooting stills and won't be doing any video recording. I am not worried about cost, I just want something that will have plenty of capacity. Also, is the class of the SD card important? Sorry for sounding like a total n00b, but I am one. </p>