Callinmg all Nikon Capture NX2 Users!

[gtpete]

As a non user of Adobe products I find it difficult on this site to find help or information from fellow users of Nikon's brilliant software, Capture NX2.
There definitely seems to be a bias towards LR & CS which by my thinking leaves us Nikon purists out in the cold!
Is there anyone out there that is experienced & willing to share their tips & advice on getting the best out it?
I am sure there are other DPS users that would really appreciate a sticky thread specifically for NX2 users.
I do have all the books & video tutorials available for NX2, however, its always good to hear from the actual users such as thier own shortcuts & preferred settings etc..

cheers

Peter

[Digidave]

I use NX2 almost exclusively with Color Efex Pro as a add-on. I find it so much easier than Photoshop or Paintshop Pro. I started with Jason O'Dell's book & taught myself through trial & error. I am constantly going back through older photos & redoing them after I learn something new. The thing I like the most is the "Versions" feature. So simple & no "Sidecars" or whatever the heck they call those files. I have a lot of saved Steps that I use quite often & I can add them with a simple right-click & select.

When I first got Color Efex pro, I was trying out all the different filters just to see what they all do & it gets a little overwhelming but some of them are used in just about every shot I take. One day I decided to see just how far & whacked out I could get with those filters. I came up with a series of filters that I like to call the "Cartoon Effect". Check it out

Turn this


Into this


Eh, what the heck, might as well add a couple more





I know, it gets a little out of control on some shots but it's kind of cool. Have you created a Dodging or Burning tool yet?

[gtpete]

Hi Dave
thanks for great examples of what can be done. I am impressed with your skills with NX2. I still have a lot to learn & I am just discovering all the features as well as the add on of Color Efex Pro options. I will have to make some time to try these out. I have Jason's book which is excellent & I have a few output & sharpening presets for set up.
I dont know why any one would use Photoshop or LR if they shoot with a Nikon and in ra. From all my own testing against LR & CS4, NX2 consistantly produces better images. As long as you can get over the somewhat cumbersome UI its a winner every time.