Course description

A Raw file is comparable to an undeveloped film. The Raw file is equivalent to the negative which can be developed and processed in a variety of ways. You can extract the best possible image quality from it, and the original file is left untouched and can be processed differently as many times as you want.
There is no need to purchase any software for this course as the free software, Darktable, is excellent for processing your RAW files using basic and advanced techniques.
Darktable is a free software alternative to Lightroom (LR). Many people will use Darktable to avoid paying a LR subscription but if you want to keep using LR you can also use Darktable to increase your editing options and capabilities. Arguably, Darktable is a more powerful software than LR. It has the ability to use drawn or parametric masks to localise adjustments based upon regions and/or pixel values. There are currently 68 different modules (and more being developed) to select from to optimise exposure, colour, noise, and sharpness.

What your course will cover

A Raw file is comparable to an undeveloped film. The Raw file is equivalent to the negative, which can be developed and processed in a variety of ways. You can extract the best possible image quality from it, and the original file is left untouched and can be processed differently as many times as you want.
There is no need to purchase any software for this course, as the free software, Darktable, is excellent for processing your RAW files using basic and advanced techniques.
Darktable is a free software alternative to Lightroom (LR). Many people will use Darktable to avoid paying a LR subscription but if you want to keep using LR you can also use Darktable to increase your editing options and capabilities. Arguably, Darktable is a more powerful software than LR. It has the ability to use drawn or parametric masks to localise adjustments based upon regions and/or pixel values. There are currently 68 different modules (and more being developed) to select from to optimise exposure, colour, noise, and sharpness.

About the software

Darktable is a non-destructive editor that will not alter your original files. It records your editing steps in a separate file and then creates a totally new image file upon export when you are finished. Darktable is designed to extract the most out of your camera’s RAW files but it will also edit JPEG and TIFF files. It works on multiple platforms including Windows, MAC, and Linux.
If you install GIMP, which is another free multi-platform photo editing program, and have Darktable also installed you have a very comprehensive set of imaging programs that work together. For example, if you open a RAW file via GIMP, GIMP opens the file first in Darktable where initial edits are performed and then imports the image into GIMP for the final stages of editing.

What to bring

Please bring your own laptop.
Once students have enrolled they will be supplied with links to the free software utilised in the course to download in readiness for the first class.
One or two loan computers will be available – please confirm if you require one before enrolling.

Important information

Please note that children must not attend this class unless it is a specified parent/child activity.

Disability and special needs

Libraries Tasmania is committed to achieving open, equitable access and participation to a range of adult education programs and courses. If you have a disability or medical condition which you think may impact on your ability to participate in an adult education course, please complete the Special Needs Form available at: http://adulteducation.libraries.tas.gov.au/enrolling, or contact the adult education team: http://adulteducation.libraries.tas.gov.au/contact. This will help us to make the necessary adjustments to maximise your enjoyment and experience in your chosen course. All enquiries are confidential.

Please note that carers supporting learners with disabilities can attend our classes free of charge. For more information, please contact adult education team: http://adulteducation.libraries.tas.gov.au/contact.

Refund policy

Cancellations and Refunds
Please choose your course carefully. A full refund is payable in the event that a class is cancelled. No other refunds are considered except for extenuating circumstances which are supported by a written application.

Contact details

For General Enquiries contact

• (03) 6165 5564

Or for specific enquiries relating to issues in your area, contact your local centre http://www.libraries.tas.gov.au/locations

Terms and Conditions

Go to: http://adulteducation.libraries.tas.gov.au/policies or contact the adult education team:
http://adulteducation.libraries.tas.gov.au/contact