RAW conversions using Silkypix

Introduction

Silkypix is a full-featured program for converting RAW digital camera data into useable TIF and JPEG image files.  After testing various RAW converters on the market I consider Silkypix the best but its complexity requires a good deal of practice.  You can download a free demo from the company website.

Some folks say such a program is unnecessary since Adobe Camera RAW and camera manufacturers already provide conversion software.  They also say most adjustments can be made later with Photoshop or the like.  I find that the extra time and expense using Silkypix is well worth it when comparing results side-by-side.  As its name implies, the program produces images that have a smooth look.

This tutorial includes basic procedures and settings that work quite well for underwater photography and executed using version 2.0.  Current version 3.0 includes more features and will operate on RAW, TIF and JPG files.  Settings on the following examples best emulate the look of images taken with Fujichrome Velvia 50, minus film grain.

Camera Settings

The sRGB colorspace is is the industry standard for images being viewed on-screen or posted online.  You might consider the Adobe RGB colorspace if you are printing a lot.  Daylight white balance produces the best representation in camera but you will likely change it using Silkypix.  You should also set saturation, contrast, and sharpness levels to normal and use the lowest ISO. 

In-Camera Exposure

Digital files are similar to slide film when it comes to proper exposure.  Err on the side of underexposure if necessary since blown-out highlights cannot be recovered.  Fortunately RAW files underexposed up to 3-stops or 1-stop over can produce acceptable results.  This flexibility makes the use of TTL flash less important for those cameras and housings that lack it. 

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