I extract the EXIF data from each photo in a directory. This is done programmatically. So, it's just a highlight the files and press go. That fills in a spreadsheet which then gets imported to a database. I also include a small jpg with each input. This allows me to query on any of several attributes.
There is some work to this but in the long run it's easier to find the files. So, a little effort upfront saves a lot of time on the backend. --Bob
If the OP googles "batch extract exif data" there are at least fifty free or nearly free programs available to do this.
I use Luminar3 and Luminar4 with no problems. Working on Windows10. I see quite a few posts about flaws and bugs, but having used Luminar nearly daily since Luminar3 I have not had installation, functional, or performance issues at all. I also use Affinity when I want complete control without using AI.
I'm also aware that, especially among the older folks here, post processing is as much of, or more than, a hobby as photography. So long as everyone is doing what they enjoy, all should be good.
Yep, and cameras are trying to, as you so poorly state, "take the photographer out of the editing process" - Don't worry, don't say the sky is falling, you don't don't have to use any of the new-fangled editing tools. You can go in and manually edit, on a pixel-by-pixel basis, every one of your photographs. Why be afraid of new technology when you haven't tried it and don't have to use it?
Just another data point - running Luminar 4.3 on Windows 10 (OS Name: Microsoft Windows 10 Pro Version: 10.0.19041 Build 19041) and install was not problematic and 4.3 runs smoothly and quickly.
Microsoft is going to drop its Windows 10 because if all the inherent problems . Get ready for something new
The statement above is not true.
Microsoft will drop 32-bit-only Windows10, but the 64-bit Windows 10 has a 32-bit subsystem. There may ba a few applications that have to be updated from a 32-bit version to the 64-bit version, but most should continue to work.
Those numbers are kind of small What you're actually seeing is "Luminar 4" then a space, and the the version "4.2.0 (5577)" - hard to read, but luminar 4.3 is a newer version. To more easily see your installed version choose "Help > About Lumniar 4" and you will see you are on version 4.2, NOT 4.4.2. I'm not sure that 4.3 has been rolled out to the US servers yet.
The tech who is building my new computer is recommending a RAID backup system. I have always used Acronis and externals. I’d be interested in hearing from experienced RAID users. I’m also considering a clone of my OS drive for added safety and maybe a cloud backup.
Thanks. Mark
As other have suggested, Synology gives you a standalone server with RAID and many other features. See https://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-620212-1.html for information specific to using a Synology Server for photographers.
The tech who is building my new computer is recommending a RAID backup system. I have always used Acronis and externals. I’d be interested in hearing from experienced RAID users. I’m also considering a clone of my OS drive for added safety and maybe a cloud backup.
Thanks. Mark
No matter what level raid he uses (which is a good idea) I would always have storage media set to 0+1 or 6, but you should still use Acronis Cloud. Raid gives you some protection against disk or device failure, but only cloud backups provide disaster protection (fire, flood, theft, etc.)
I was just trying to find out more about the process. Does that mean I have to tell you what my equipment is. Why does it matter what my intention is?
Because different cameras (both different makes and different models) have different firmware update procedures. Why ask a question and then be nasty and defensive when someone makes an honest attempt to be helpful?
Yes, I have that camera bag. I got it because I wanted to carry the other two lenses as well as my Nikon D750. Had it about a year now. Pleased! Albeit, most of the time it sits in a spare chair in the living room ready for me to grab the camera. But that still doesn’t alter my satisfaction with the bag.