Editing Technique - v5

[Cobalt Blue]

Just curious as a new user muddling through v5 and a couple of books on the subject - is it typically acceptable to edit your original photo but then save it as a version set (edited -1, etc.) versus making a duplicate file and then working on that?

I see mention of people doing the second method in this forum and I don't see the difference and am wondering if I'm missing the boat (I use the first method).

Thanks!

[msbrad]

It isn't a good idea to work on your original. Make a copy before editing anything...just in case.
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[Cmcburnett]

I agree w/Michelle. I always save my originals in a separate directory. I have them stored on an external hard drive. Some people save the originals as "negatives" I save mine as "originals". I'd rather be safe then sorry.;)

[CalamityJanet]

If you opened your photo from the organizer then you are working on a copy that is created for you automatically. When Elements creates the version set it saves your untouched original for you. If you add an extra copy of your original you unnecessarily increase your file size considerably. I think duplicating and working on the duplicate is only necessary if you aren't using the organizer. Many people don't like or use the organizer and I think that's why so many tutorials include the first step of duplicating the original.

[Cobalt Blue]

Ah, thanks for clearing that up Janet! I do use the organizer so it does as you say. Wasn't sure if I was making a major boo-boo on with the photos I've been working on for the past month!

[GaryK]

Hi CB

As long as your ORIGINAL is untouched it really makes no difference.

I tend to be a control freak... or maybe better described as a non automatic freak. :D

So even if I open from the organizer (I do both) I save with a different name just to be safe.:)