All images - SONY NEX-C3 18-55mm
When I tried the Capture One Pro raw development software from Phase One yesterday, I was pleased to see that it made a very good job of processing the files I had taken with the Sony 18-55m kit lens for the NEX-C3.
I went out yesterday and took some more shots with the lens. On my return I delved deeper into what Capture One could do with the files.
One of the things that I like about the Sony 16MP sensor that I've used in a Pentax K-5, Sony A-55 and NEX C3 and my Nikons D5100 and D7000, is how shadow detail can be recovered without producing a lot of noise. Capture One Pro has both highlight and shadow sliders which bring out shadow detail and tone down highlights. Basically doing what HDR does, but within one image.
It does work very well and since the sensor can cope with it, I was able to get some very well-balanced images with a really good dynamic range.
Capture One software has also always impressed me with its sharpening parameters and colour rendition. There is a very good "film" look with rich colour, and lovely crisp sharpening that brings out the detail, even with cameras that have quite strong anti-aliasing filters.
So using the best software, even the humble 18-55mm lens can produce truly excellent results with a little work.
