Question about image quality of the k-7

snofox · 05-13-2010, 10:05 PM

Thanks for the help! I will use these tips this weekend.

Gimbal · 05-14-2010, 02:57 AM

Originally posted by RBellavance

But keep in mind the histograms are based on the JPG, and this influenced by the white-balance. So even if you shoot RAW, it is a good idea to properly setup WB in-camera if you can.

I always thought you should leave the wb at 5000k (don't remember the exact temperature) to avoid reading the histogram for the corrected jpg. If you want a histogram that matches the rawfile then the jpg should be a straight conversion from the rawfile with as little corrections as possible.

psdigital · 05-14-2010, 09:12 PM

I use a WB target that has Black, white and gray on one side to set your exposure. The other side is solid white to set the White balance. Since I started using this, my colors look great (including reds). With flowers this type of target works well because they are not moving into different light. It helps if the color is correct when the exposure is made and you do minimal adjustments in the computer. There are several WB targets on the market including the kind you use like a lens cap.
Find what works best for you but I recommend getting it right in the camera first. I use my target with portraits every time and the color comes out great now. You have to remember when working outside to take another reading if you move. Light color changes just a few feet away. If you go from sun to shade or near an object that is reflecting color. I use custom white balance most of the time when I sell my work. The only time I use auto is for snapshots.
I have heard the K-7 and K-x has the most accurate auto WB around. I don't own one yet but maybe when I do, I can leave my target home.
Hope this helps.

audiobomber · 05-15-2010, 05:30 AM

Originally posted by psdigital

I have heard the K-7 and K-x has the most accurate auto WB around. I don't own one yet but maybe when I do, I can leave my target home.

You'll probably still want that target. I find the K-x AWB goes too blue in direct sunlight, Manual or Daylight setting is more accurate. With incandescen lighting AWB is close but a bit warm. I find the warmth can add to the mood of the photo, so it's also a matter of taste.

05-14-2010, 02:57 AM	#17
Gimbal Pentaxian Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Sweden Posts: 2,105	Originally posted by RBellavance But keep in mind the histograms are based on the JPG, and this influenced by the white-balance. So even if you shoot RAW, it is a good idea to properly setup WB in-camera if you can. I always thought you should leave the wb at 5000k (don't remember the exact temperature) to avoid reading the histogram for the corrected jpg. If you want a histogram that matches the rawfile then the jpg should be a straight conversion from the rawfile with as little corrections as possible. Last edited by Gimbal; 05-14-2010 at 03:04 AM.

05-14-2010, 09:12 PM	#18
psdigital New Member Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Tennessee Posts: 24	White balance target I use a WB target that has Black, white and gray on one side to set your exposure. The other side is solid white to set the White balance. Since I started using this, my colors look great (including reds). With flowers this type of target works well because they are not moving into different light. It helps if the color is correct when the exposure is made and you do minimal adjustments in the computer. There are several WB targets on the market including the kind you use like a lens cap. Find what works best for you but I recommend getting it right in the camera first. I use my target with portraits every time and the color comes out great now. You have to remember when working outside to take another reading if you move. Light color changes just a few feet away. If you go from sun to shade or near an object that is reflecting color. I use custom white balance most of the time when I sell my work. The only time I use auto is for snapshots. I have heard the K-7 and K-x has the most accurate auto WB around. I don't own one yet but maybe when I do, I can leave my target home. Hope this helps.

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05-13-2010, 10:05 PM	#16
snofox Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Fredericton New Brunswick Canada Photos: Albums Posts: 334	Thanks for the help! I will use these tips this weekend.

05-15-2010, 05:30 AM	#19
audiobomber Veteran Member Join Date: May 2008 Location: Sudbury, Ontario Photos: Albums Posts: 6,806	Originally posted by psdigital I have heard the K-7 and K-x has the most accurate auto WB around. I don't own one yet but maybe when I do, I can leave my target home. You'll probably still want that target. I find the K-x AWB goes too blue in direct sunlight, Manual or Daylight setting is more accurate. With incandescen lighting AWB is close but a bit warm. I find the warmth can add to the mood of the photo, so it's also a matter of taste.

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