Updated Capture One Pro

2009 November 8
by Gary Ombler

Phase One have recently released their latest version of Capture One Pro 5.

I have used this software since it was called C1 Pro. The main reason I started to use it was to have tethered  RAW captures  with my Canons and now is used also with my Phase One back. The software was much more basic then, but now it has so many features, I guess in response to its  two main software competitors. However, I have found the Capture One to be that little bit better in terms of image quality.  No doubt some will debate this, but I have yet to see as low noise levels from its rivals. It’s competitors may offer a full on image management system, but Capture One is not about that. It really comes into its own at the moment of capture, up to final processing from RAW conversion to Tiff.

I think that this latest version will make photographers work flow even easier than before! The new focus tool, in which a green overlay is used to indicate points of focus, is one of the best features a photographer could ever wish for! When working on location with a 15” laptop, one really has to go in 100% or more to check the focus. Now, from a distance you can quickly see the plane of focus. If you do not get it right, simply  focus again and then check. I absolutely love this feature. The software supports most  digital DSLR’s and offers tethered support to the flagship Canon and Nikon models.

To buy it is 299 Euros, or upgrade from Capture One Pro 4 then it is 69 Euros. It may seem a little expensive, but I think this programme is great value for money, it really does have some little gems, that its rivals have yet to offer.

Here is a summary of some of the main features:

Tethered Capture

Capture One allows you to photograph with your camera attached to your computer, be it a Phase One back, Mamiya digital backs and Canon or Nikon DSLRs. This means you can get an almost view of your capture  without having to download the memory card onto the computer saving so much time, and much easier way of assessing your images for sharpness, composition and exposure.

Focus Mask [new]

Speed up your image selection for correct focus and sharpness by using the focus mask overlay.

Focus Tool [new]

Get a quick indication of image sharpness with this cool feature, can be used as floating palette

Skin Enhancer [new]

As part of the colour editor this feature enables you to change skin tones accurately. Ideal for removing red blotchy skin or enhancing tones.

Grids and Guides

Check alignment and straightness of images, great for still lives and architecture

Dust Spot remover [new]

Easily remove dust spots with a single click. Select a group of images and remove dust spots from all the images

Multi Monitor [improved]

Support for duel monitors enables you to manage your palettes and images in various configurations. Enables you to work with large image displays.

Advanced Lens Correction

Built in profiles for some of the new Mamiya/Phase One digital lenses. Correct Chromatic Aberration, Purple Fringing, Geometric Distortion, Sharpness and Light Fall off

Overlay

This tool  enables you to overlay another image on top of another, it can be moved in various positions, scaled and the opacty changed. Ideal for composition work and great for Art Directors!

There are so many features of this software. Try it for free for 30 days at: www.phaseone.com


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  1. 2009 November 19

    Hi, Is this Gary Ombler who worked for the DK Studio? If so get in touch! I live in Oxford now too….

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