Processing

After selecting the specific corrections for the project images, the user moves on to the Process tab. The user can select the output image format from DNG, TIF or JPG, choose the destination folder and file name suffix, and choose to proceed with processing individual images or the entire batch. For those users processing JPGs rather than RAW images, the program cannot output these images as DNG or TIF files. I found that the processing was relatively quick on my minimum spec computer (Windows XP, 3GHz single core processor, 2GB of RAM), with each RAW image taking an average of 30 seconds to process. Newer computers with faster processors and additional RAM will obviously handle the processing even quicker.

Figure 3: Process Tab

Viewing

Upon completion of image processing, users proceed to the View tab, where they can view the processed images as single images or in a side by side comparison. Full zoom capability is present as it was in the Customize tab, and users can choose to go back to the Customize tab to make changes to several or all of their images if they are not satisfied.

Figure 4: View Tab

Conclusions

DxO's Optics Pro 6 does a terrific job of correcting the problems inherent in specific camera bodies and lenses, and in automatically applying corrections for noise reduction and geometry. Its ability to integrate with Lightroom is a welcome feature, and one that many photographers that have already invested in Adobe's workflow management software will appreciate. While the software does have some quirks that DxO will hopefully address in its next release, I found it to be quite powerful, very customizable, and user-friendly. I would recommend Optics Pro 6 to photographers that are looking for software that allows them the option to infinitely tweak their images or process them quickly and automatically, with excellent results.

Matthew Shanks is a Professional Engineer and Project Management Professional, based in Calgary, Alberta. His interests include photography, home theater, and gaming. He is happily married and recently welcomed his baby daughter to the family.

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