Image Editing with Workspace

Last Update:- 30th May 2023

1. Introduction

Does your photography session end at the PC Workstation or Photo Shoot? This article discusses the PC Workstation option and the practical aspects of having the Enhanced Raw Format and Workspace. For example, most M43 photographers don't see any difference between Workspace and other commercially available Raw Editors (Converters) like Lightroom or PhotoLab.

I also discussed the Enhanced Raw Format in a previous article.

For example, Olympus and OMDS use the same "Advanced Raw Processing" terminology in their press releases. For more info about these Workspace descriptions, see the page here. I also keep a basic timeline of all the Workspace updates and my comments in this link.

The best way to benefit from Workspace is to include it in your photography workflow. You will discover it's not just another raw converter the more you work with Workspace. Workspace becomes an extension of your photography experience with Olympus cameras when you convert your Enhanced Raw Files in Workspace and edit the 16-bit Tiff files in Photoshop.

Why 16-bit Tiff files? See the 1st chapter discussing Dynamic Range in this e-Book.

We will discuss the following:-

1. Introduction
2. Why are Workspace and the Enhance Raw Format different?
3. Who benefits most from using the Enhanced Raw Format?
4. My preferred Olympus camera settings for Workspace
5. How does one edit Enhanced Raw Files with Workspace?
6. Finally, I added a short video at the end of this article
7. Conclusion

Olympus EM10 II with 12-50mm EZ Lens - Enhanced Raw File converted in Workspace and edited with Photoshop.

2. Why are Workspace and the Enhanced Raw Format different?

Workspace and the Enhanced Raw Format are unique because they use the same Image Processing as the camera. This is why it's possible to end your photography sessions in Workspace. We can review camera settings like sharpness, contrast, or saturation with WS. It is also interesting to simulate the camera Live View display via WS and the Enhanced Raw Format on a PC display. 

What is a typical workflow for Workspace? There is no difference between finalizing your image in the Olympus camera or Workspace. We would typically open an Enhanced Raw File, activate the camera settings, and adjust the camera settings in Workspace. 

The most exciting part is the ability to review our camera settings in Workspace. Another exciting aspect is PC RAW mode. It connects the camera Image Processor to Workspace. In fact, Workspace V2 offers an added benefit because it enables the OM-1 photographer to use the standard Workspace Editing panel in PC RAW mode. This is, unfortunately, only applicable to the OM-1.

The Enhanced Raw Format is the main difference between Workspace and commercially available Raw editors like Lightroom and PhotoLab. The same editing panel is used on raw and jpeg files in WS. The only change is the differences between Enhanced Raw and Jpeg files. Olympus photographers benefit most from using both the raw + jpeg options. (see my video further down)

Like anything else, Workspace improves over time and experience. I reached the point of consistently getting better results with my Enhanced Raw Files and Workspace. This also applies to the 16-bit Tiff files I use in Photoshop. Workspace is much better at converting Olympus raw files, and Photoshop is excellent with the converted 16-bit Tiff files...

Below is an example of the differences between raw and jpeg files. The Enhanced Raw Format has more editing options, and it's possible to simulate Live View in Workspace. This ability to have the equivalent of a Live View display with Workspace does not apply to jpeg files. 

The same Workspace Editing Panel is used on jpegs and raw files, but the unique link between the Enhanced Raw Format and the Olympus Image Processor does NOT apply to jpegs. This is why it is possible to use Workspace ART filters and Color Profiles on the jpegs from another brand. In other words, Workspace is just another image editor for jpegs.

3. Who benefits most from using the Enhanced Raw Format?

Reflected light and the ability to work with light are basic skills all photographers should have. Light or illumination is the key to managing your exposure and image sensor performance. Light is crucial for award-winning pictures and determines if the image is flat or multi-dimensional. 

Anyone who says we don't need a tripod or flash should return to basics. Even if we don't need the best image quality, light is the one thing that makes a difference. The basics of mastering Light, Workspace, and the Camera are reasons photographers are better today...

E-P7 with 25mm f1.8 lens - The 2 Enhanced Raw Files were edited in WS - The difference is Auto Graduation.

Thorsten von Overgaard is an exciting example of an inspiring photographer. Even though I do not own a Leica, my Pen F makes me think... I appreciate the creative freedom with my Pen F, the Enhanced Raw Format, Workspace, and Light when editing 16-Bit Tiff files in Photoshop.

4. My preferred camera settings for Workspace

Some photographers adjust the saturation, sharpness, and contrast with the camera to correct the camera's "color science." It reminds me of Sony's A7 cameras. Olympus cameras have more advanced color functions, and most of these camera settings are available in Workspace. It's now possible to tweak your camera settings in the comfort of your home with a large PC screen and Workspace.

Years back, when I started editing, we learned that adjusting sharpness, contrast, and saturation is not the best way of editing images. A better way of editing is to use a histogram (Curves). I accepted that and focussed on Curves with Photoshop. Olympus has two plus a "half" curve equivalent in the camera and Workspace, the "highlights/shadows" sliders, Graduation, and Tone Curves.

Olympus EM10 III with 14-42mm kit lens - Enhanced Raw File converted in WS and edited in PS.

A better way of sharpening images is the Unsharp Mask function. You can safely start with an Amount of 44 and a Radius of 1.3 while developing your sharpening skills. Image sharpening is a simple process of adding contrast to the contrast areas in the image. You could also use a basic S-Curve in Tone Curves or the highlight and shadow sliders in your camera or Workspace...

One of the most critical decisions is having the same color space for the camera and Workspace. I simply use Adobe RGB for all my software and devices. That means the camera Live View display is the same as my Workspace Live View Display. I only convert my images during my final adjustments to SRGB for posting them on the web or CYM for printing.  

Olympus EM5 with 12-50mm, ISO800, f4.0, 1/6Sec (Handheld) - fully edited in Workspace.

Why do I focus on photography and not my camera settings? The reason is simple, you need to know what is possible in Workspace and what is possible when photographing. For example, you cannot re-adjust your exposure settings (aperture and shutter speed) in Workspace, but you can select a different Picture Mode in Workspace. This knowledge helps us to plan our critical camera settings while photographing versus what we can tweak with Workspace.

For example, while out photographing, focus on your exposure settings. You can always do any final exposure compensation settings in WS. Focus on your inspiration, exposure strategy, direction and quality of light, and having the best viewing or picture angle when you photograph.

It's good to keep a grey card or Spider Cube with you. Place them in the scene and do a few test shots with different angles. Manual Exposure Mode is the best way to master your exposure settings. For example, work with the direction of light and various light sources. The challenge with Manual Exposure Mode is the Exif data does not show any "exposure compensation" settings. If this is a problem, use Aperture Priority with exposure compensation.

Olympus EM1 III with 12-200mm Lens - The Enhanced Raw File was converted with WS.

Why is it important to know if you used exposure compensation? One would correct the exposure compensation settings in Workspace to ensure the correct 18% gray or color values.

Here are my recommended camera settings for Aperture or Shutter Priority Modes:-

• Always apply the ISO manually (Manual or Aperture or Shutter priority)
• Do not adjust the sharpness, contrast, or saturation sliders in the camera
• Always use the jpeg + raw option in your camera (Enhanced Raw files)
• Use Exposure Compensation to manage the exposure mix of the camera
• Always use a fixed ISO when your goal is a fully saturated image sensor
• The focus of using these settings is maximum tonal/image data, not creativity
• If your focus is a final in-camera jpeg, then these suggestions will change
• If your goal is a final image in Workspace, then use the Enhance Raw Format
• We can "simulate" the jpeg in WS and select our best camera settings in WS

Olympus EM5 with 12-50mm lens - ISO800, f4.0, 1/3 sec (handheld on a rail) - Raw File edited in Workspace

A welcome aspect of Workspace and the Enhanced Raw format is how we determine the best camera settings for our unique photography styles. This is especially applicable to jpegs. Workspace offers the best environment with large PC screens to help us fine-tune our camera settings.

5. How to edit your images in Workspace

We are not discussing Workspace features like hotkeys, button functions, or how to re-arrange the editing windows. It's good to take a few minutes and familiarize yourself with WS. You will find the User Manual in the Help Menu. We will focus on standard and enhanced editing functions.

EM10 III with 12-45mm f4 Pro lens - A good camera for Workspace (Color Creator) and Photoshop.

Workspace V2 is slower on my older Macs. I saw this on my older MacBook Pro and iMac from 2014/15. My Macbook is the basic version, and my iMac is well-specified for 2014. The iMac performs well but is slower with V2. Go to my WS tips page for more... 

See the diagram below. It summarises what we discussed in this article. Any computational or AI functions should be part of a separate discussion. The same applies to downloading or importing images to WS or managing and rating your image collection.

Figure 1

The best decision you can make is to study Olympus Software Applications like Workspace and OI. Share. Trust the Olympus Developing and Engineering Teams and the fact that they compete with the best in the industry. Ignore forums, camera reviews, and YouTube with all the undisclosed promotions on these platforms. Trust your own talent and experience with Olympus. For example, photography forums will never admit that the 14-42mm kit lens is an above-average performer. The same is true for the 9-18mm, the 14-150mm, the 12-200mm, and ALL the f1.8 compact lenses.

Olympus 14-42mm f3.5 - 5.6 R II Kit Lens

Workspace is a fully-featured image editor with all the advanced features of Olympus cameras. While not as powerful as Photoshop, the editing features of Workspace are the same as the camera and a good editing solution for Olympus photographers. Workspace is one of the best image editors for those new to editing. The main reason is the similarities between Workspace and the camera.

It's good to start editing with Workspace because it offers similar editing features as the more advanced editors like Photoshop. It's possible to export your Workspace images to Photoshop for more advanced image editing. This makes any editing transition simpler from Workspace to Photoshop.

Figure 2

How to activate Live View in Workspace? None of the camera settings are "live" when you open your Enhanced Raw File in Workspace. All the camera settings are available but have to be activated. Live View is only active when all the camera settings are selected in Workspace. The above illustration shows the process of selecting and activating your camera settings. The camera jpeg or Live View image is displayed when all the camera settings are active.

Olympus E-P7 with 9-18mm f4 lens - Great lens for creative effects - Edited with WS and PS.

Any editing steps discussed in this article reflect my own editing style. I have been using WS from the first day it was launched, and I like to start by activating my raw file or camera settings. See the above graphic. This allows me to sit back and inspect the image in Live View mode. It is good to take a few minutes and study the image before making any adjustments.

These are the steps I follow when I am editing an Enhanced RAW File:-

• I first activate (select) all my camera settings in Workspace
• I use a +2/6EV exposure shift with all my Olympus cameras
• Correct the exposure shift with a -1/3EV exposure compensation
• This will reset the image colors or neutral grey values to 18%
• I mostly use the "Low" option for the iEnhance Picture Mode
• The Highlight/Shadow sliders open shadows and pull back highlights
• Use the mid-tones slider to adjust the brightness of the image
• Use the Tone Curve slider for older cameras with no mid-tone slider
• You could use an S-Curve in the Tone Curve section to add contrast
• Use the Dehaze and Clarity slider to better define the sky or clouds
• I do not sharpen my images in Workspace - I prefer Photoshop...
• I use the RGB color space, and it's critical to activate it in WS
• I prefer the "Low" option for the Noise Filter in the camera or WS
• I never use the False Color Suppression in the WS Noise Filter
• I very seldom use any of the other noise filters in my camera or WS
• When I am done, I transfer the 16-bit Tiff file to Photoshop...

Olympus E-P7 with 9-18mm f4 lens - The Enhanced Raw File was converted with Workspace.

I typically use a mix of highlights & shadows settings or gradation to determine the final brightness of my images in Workspace. The next step is white balance. There are more ways of selecting your White Balance. One is to leave the WB in Auto or to use the daylight, clouds, or other WB presents. Another option is to select a reference point in the image with the custom WB or Grey Pointer. It can be a gray card in the image or any white surface. 

Don't confuse yourself with image brightness and the correct neutral (18%) grey value. Follow the steps below to optimize your image quality and color:-

1. Determine your neutral grey exposure settings with the camera exposure meter.
2. The final exposure settings will include ETTR, WB, and exposure-compensation
3. The 1st WS step is to set back the exposure compensation for the correct exposure.
4. The next step is to select the appropriate White Balance for the image and WS.
5. The final image (exposure) is now ready for the raw conversion steps in WS
6. For example, any creative brightness tweaks happen from this point onward

It's OK to have a personal style when selecting the white balance for the image. I prefer white areas in shadow areas or the cement between bricks. Your WB point choice represents your preferred image style and look. There are no rules for setting your WB.

Figure 3.

How should I edit my images in Workspace? Image editing is a series of minor adjustments until the image mirrors the photographer's impression of the original scene. There are no rights or wrongs when editing an image. There are probably 3 types of image editing styles for WS:-

1. Casual image editing (nothing big and small steps at a time)
2. Creative image editing (various options like ART filters & PS)
3. Customer contracts (this requires advanced editing in WS & PS)

This article focuses on casual and creative image editing. See my fully customized editing panel in Figure 2. The different editing panels below are from this customized editing panel. I marked each editing step in the illustration below (figure 4). The opening and exporting of your images happen in A and E. Steps B, C, and D are discussed in more detail in the video below. 

Olympus E-P7 with 9-18mm f4 lens - The Enhanced Raw File was converted with Workspace.

The main editing sequence in Figure 4 consists of a step-by-step editing sequence. Steps B and D are used in casual editing, and B, C, and D for creative editing. None of the camera settings are active when you open the Enhanced Raw File. What's displayed on the PC screen is pure raw data. You first need to activate Live View in Workspace. See Figure 3 for more info. I grouped all the Standard Camera settings in Step B to simplify them.

The same applies to any Creative functions. You will activate your creative settings in Step C to see them in Live View. Workspace shows you which options were used in the camera. The only tricky one is the Color Creator. The Color Creator is the final option in the Picture Mode drop-down menu in Step 3. The best way to check if you used the Color Creator is to study your Jpeg Exif data.

Figure 4.

Image editing starts when you analyze the Live View image in Workspace. You will have a good feel for your final image and what you like to change or update. It's important because it's part of your editing/creative process when preparing your final images. 

I typically prepare notes on what I like to achieve with the Live View image in Workspace. Image editing is a simple step-by-step sequence starting at Step A and finishing with Step E.

Workspace is one of the best image editors for those new to image editing. In fact, Workspace quickly becomes powerful the more you use it. For example, I am talking about taking the time or the fact that image editing is a process. What about those cases where speed is critical? Well, that is also possible in Workspace. You would typically take the time to edit the first image and then copy and paste the settings to the remaining images in the sequence.

6. A short video on Workspace and the Enhanced Raw Format

The above video explains the different sections discussed in this article. I also show a few basic editing steps. It is good to know that image editing in Workspace is as simple as adding an S-Curve, selecting a new picture mode, or changing the Noise Reduction from Standard to Low. Image editing in Workspace does not have to be a big thing.

7. Conclusion

I did something I wouldn't normally do when I updated Workspace to version 2. I typically wait a while to safeguard myself and my PC. My concern is speed. The upgrade to Workspace V2 was obviously done to support the new OM-1 and newer PCs.

The previous version of Workspace (V1.5) is a safe option if you don't use the M1 Macbook, or use the EM1 III, or any other Olympus camera. Its fast and older PCs generally support Workspace V1.5 without any issues.

Olympus EM10 III with 14-42mm kit lens - Enhanced Raw File converted in WS and edited in PS

The cost-effective and tested PC is the entry-level Macbook Pro with the M1 processor (I added the 16GB option to mine). If you need the new sequential shooting group display, focus sorting feature, or the AI noise reduction feature of V2, then you need something like the new M1 CPU.

Long-term Olympus users are familiar with Olympus Viewer 3. Workspace is the improved version of Viewer 3. It offers a better interface for the Enhanced Raw format. I kept a copy of Viewer 3 on my iMac and continue to use it. For example, it's a pity that Olympus removed the Gamma function from Workspace. A nice benefit of Viewer 3 is how it displays the camera settings (Enhanced Raw data) in the editing panel.

See the camera settings in the Enhanced Raw File.

What is the Gamma function? Image sensors are linear recording devices. Editing software like Workspace or Photoshop overlays a standard display profile to the raw data. The Gamma slider allows us to adapt or fine-tune this display profile.

Pen F + 60mm Marco - High Resolution 80MP (10368x7776) - Edited in OV3 /Changed the Gamma profile)

Have fun editing your images...

Siegfried

The Enhanced Raw Format and Live View

Last Updated:- 31st May 2023

  

We are studying the history and growth of Olympus Live View. It all started with the Olympus E330 in 2006 and the E-3 in 2007. The E3 was the first Pro DSLR with a fully Articulating and Live View Display. The focus was functionality and the ability to compose an image while viewing the sensor's live data. The E3 was also the first DSLR to display the sensor's RAW data and update the display as the photographer adjusted settings like the WB, ISO, Auto & Manual Focussing, and Exposure. The photographer could also monitor the camera's IBIS operation on the Live View display.

This was the start of the Olympus Live View function. The current Live View and Workspace (Raw Converter) option advanced to a level one would think is absolutely normal. Interestingly, other manufacturers don't offer a similar solution, except for the Fuji X-RAW-Studio. We are reviewing the Enhanced Raw Format and the integration of Olympus cameras with Workspace.

What does this mean? We can now replicate the sensor's raw data, the camera's final Live View display, and our camera settings in Workspace.

I wrote a new article discussing different options to create profiles in January 2024.

Also, see the 2nd article I wrote about the Enhance Raw Format.

Also, see these articles:

- How I convert my Enhanced Raw Files - link

- Olympus Color and Creative Photography - link

- See this article for details on how Live View works - link

- How to use the Olympus Color Creator and Workspace - link

1. Introduction

What would photographers typically expect from the camera's display:-

• High-resolution LED or OLED screens with 1M-Dot or higher resolution
• Visibility and functionality are critical aspects for most photographers
• Fully Articulating 3" or larger touchscreen displays for video applications
• Bright displays with good viewing and controls, similar to mobile phones
• Large magnification EVFs (2.3M-dot +, and 120fps) with no black-outs
• The new Fuji XT-5 display is one of the best photography formats in 2023
• The eyepoint on the EVF is important, especially for those wearing glasses
• The Super Control Panel (SCP) on Olympus cameras is a great solution
• The existing Olympus menu is great and easy to use for M43 photographers
• Backward operational compatibility is a strength of the EM1 III UI & menu
• The ability to recreate the camera's Live View display in the raw converter
• The ability to develop and practice camera color profiles at home (software)

The EM1 III is the final Pro-level camera from Olympus with the familiar UI and menu. This menu system developed and improved over many years. The best advantage of the EM1 III is its backward compatibility with older cameras. For example, I recently bought a 10-year-old Olympus EM1 MKI and had no problem applying my preferred Olympus configuration to the older EM1.

The above image illustrates the conversion process of the Enhanced Raw File. It starts with adding the final Live View data and camera settings to the Enhanced Raw File. When uploaded to our PC, we open the Enhanced Raw File in Workspace. Only the sensor's raw data will be visible when we open the raw file. The next step is to "activate" the camera settings to enable the final camera's Live View display. The next step is adjusting our camera settings in Workspace. We could also apply more advanced editing in Workspace. The final converted raw file is exported (16-bit Tiff) to PS...

Tip:- Study the Live View Boost function from Olympus in the Users Manual. 

Olympus E-3 with an Articulating Display (Competing with the Canon 40D and Nikon D300).

Olympus continued to develop the Live View function and the compatibility between the camera and the previous Olympus raw converter, Viewer 3. The next step was the Creative Color concept. The Creative Color concept from Olympus consists of functions like B&W filters, Color Profiles (Pen F, EP-7), Color Filters, Adjust Color, and the Color Creator.

I discussed the Live View function in some of my other articles. My search for information on Live View and the Histogram started in 2019. For example, I found more data about Live View in my older E30 documentation. Older News Releases from Olympus and User Manuals are a treasure trove of "unfiltered" Olympus information on their cameras, lenses, and software...

Please study as I use this terminology in this article.

2. Live View and Olympus Cameras

Olympus photographers need to answer this, do you think Live View or the Raw Converter (Viewer 3 & Workspace) were only random thoughts? Olympus introduced Live View in 2006, and the Olympus Imaging Division's marketing team never re-launched or advertised any improvements. They looked like the worst marketing team in the industry. The enormous progress by the Imaging Engineering team is only visible when you study the new "Working Space" from Olympus.

For example, have you ever asked yourself why calling it, WorkSpace and Live View?

Any camera's Live View display should mirror the image sensor's response to camera adjustments and the reflected light reaching the sensor. This concept was part of Olympu's design criteria from day one. Combining the sensor's raw data with the functionality of Workspace was the next logical step for the Olympus Imaging engineering team...

But all cameras have Live View. Yes, it's possible to list and evaluate the design criteria of all mirrorless cameras by reviewing the unique photography landscape promoted by camera reviewers and what supposedly photographers (promoters) want from a camera and Live View display. 

Studying Olympus, we see the following:-

• A live connection between the image sensor and the Live View display
• The histogram with the same direct link to the sensor raw or image data
• The ability to monitor the raw or image data while adjusting the camera
• The ability to evaluate camera adjustments before capturing the image
• Selecting and changing any color or creative adjustments in Live View
• The ability to have an Enhanced Raw File with ALL the camera settings
• Compatibility between the Live View data and supplier Editing Software
• The ability to accurately apply & monitor exposure techniques like ETTR
• The ability to edit the camera settings or practice with them in Workspace

This basic Live View flow diagram matured with M43 Olympus cameras.

How to Enhance your Raw Files in Live View?" Your camera's Live View display or EVF replicates the sensor's Luminance Perspective. The only difference between the sensor's raw data perspective and the camera Live View image is a layered "Display Profile" placed onto the raw data. Olympus created another layer to add user profile settings (Creative Data) to the sensor's raw data. This is how the Enhanced Raw Format enabled Workspace to access the camera's layered Enhanced Raw data. In other words, we can now simulate the camera's final Live View display in Workspace. It also allows us to experiment with many camera settings or profiles in Workspace.

Regular Raw Converters are different because they access the sensor's Raw Data Layer. Traditional editors like PhotoShop, Lightroom, or PhotoLab cannot access or process the Enhanced Raw Data from Olympus cameras. It does not mean they are not good. WorkSpace has full access to the sensor's Raw Data and the user's Creative Layer via the Enhanced Raw Format. OM-System uses the same "Advanced Raw Format" terminology on its official website and press releases.

Traditional Raw File = Sensor Raw Data

Live View Image = Sensor Raw Data + Display Profile

Enhanced Raw File = Sensor Raw Data + Camera Creative Layers

This is BIG news because the Enhanced Raw Format enables us to test different camera settings while Workspace simulates the camera's Live View display. This process also improves our experience of testing and developing new camera profiles in Workspace. A good example is the Color Creator from Olympus. It is difficult to familiarize yourself with this function on the camera display.

The above illustrations demonstrate the Enhanced Raw Format and Live View in Workspace. It also shows how to activate your camera settings in Workspace. Those camera settings, like Picture Mode, which is not clearly marked, can be found in the Exif data. For example, the Color Creator...

Older WorkSpace versions could only replicate the Creative Color settings of specific camera models. The anomaly was the EM1 II. It was possible to overlay a Pen-F color profile onto the EM1 II raw data. Workspace V1.5 and later versions opened Color Profiles. 

How should we edit Enhanced RAW Files? The first step is to Activate your Camera Settings in Workspace. The camera's final Live View display will be displayed on your computer. You will only see the Sensor's RAW Data if you don't activate your Camera Settings in Workspace. See Tip 22 on my Workspace How-to-Page.

Why RAW files and not JPEGS? The reason is simple for WorkSpace. The editing space for jpeg and raw files is the same in WorkSpace. Considering only the available image data, you will find raw files have more than double the file size (amount of data). These reasons should be enough to use raw files. The biggest reason is the Enhanced Raw Format and Live View for Workspace. This changed everything for photographers and Olympus cameras...

Olympus Stylus SH50 Compact Camera - ISO125, f5.8, 1/200

The Live View display allows us to simulate or test our camera settings in Workspace. Trying new camera settings is the best advantage of the Enhanced Raw Format and Workspace. A good example is building new color profiles. Workspace also made it possible to fine-tune your camera settings in Workspace. This is an advantage Olympus photographers shouldn't ignore...

Should we Calibrate our Cameras and PCs? It's possible to select an sRGB or RGB Colorspace for the camera. The color space is embedded in the image Exif data. Color Calibration is a complex subject and warrants a separate article. To keep it simple, I have been using RGB for all my gear.

This short paragraph reminds photographers to use the same Colorspace for all their equipment. I selected my Embedded PC Profile (RGB) for Workspace (see below). These basic steps synchronize the camera, computer, and WorkSpace. Some forum "experts" promote the idea of using the sRGB ColorSpace. My biggest concern is the sRGB color space is the lesser option... 

What are the benefits of discussing this information? The advantage of using the same Colorspace on all your equipment is compatibility and the ability to improve your Color Awareness Skills in the comfort of your home. This enables Olympus photographers to grow their creative ART photography skills by editing and practicing their Creative Color camera adjustments in Workspace.

The more you use the WorkSpace Live View mode, the easier it is to apply this experience in the field with your Olympus camera. Live View and WorkSpace were the two most significant developments in the modern history of Olympus digital cameras...

The Olympus histogram:- The Olympus Histogram is as much a part of the Olympus Live View functionality as the image sensor raw data in Live View. The same principles of collecting data apply to the histogram and Live View. You can only benefit from practicing at every opportunity with the different features of Olympus cameras. For example, what is the function of the green add-ons in the Olympus histogram? How do they help us?

It is critical to study and master the Exposure Techniques discussed in this article. This will help you improve your image sensor's performance and exposure settings for creative photography and image quality. It's critical to master your shutter speed and aperture versus the ISO function.

Final Comments:-

What would an Olympus workflow look like? One would typically convert the Enhanced Raw File in Workspace and post-process (edit) the 16-bit Tiff file in Photoshop. Photoshop post-processing includes the Adobe Raw Converter as a layered Smart Object with access to LR features...

Olympus EP-7 w 17mm f2.8 - ISO200, f5.6, 1/500 - Enhanced Raw file, Gradation High, Color Graded and converted in WS and edited in PS.

The above image is an example of using the computational features of Olympus for ETTR, protecting highlights, and improving the shadow SNR and tonal data. See this article. 

Is OM-System a concern or a hope for the future? I bought my Olympus EM1 III from OM-System in 2021, and my Inbox turned into a junk box. The OM-1 has a new menu because they couldn't manage the pressure from promoters (product reviewers). PCRAW Mode segregated the OM-1 from the rest of the Olympus Pro cameras. Are these decisions and the OM-5 simply inconsistent decision-making or part of a future product strategy? Does a Photography DNA mean anything? For example, even my old Olympus Stylus XZ-2 works with Workpace and the Enhanced Raw Format.

I haven't used my Fuji XT-5 much because I am satisfied with the Olympus Pen-F, EP-7, and EM1 III. I even considered selling the XT-5 but decided to keep it until I make a final decision...

Why would competitors benefit from having promoters and a new OM-1 menu UI?

When you think about it, Olympus enabled photographers to "edit" the captured raw data before reaching the TruePic Image Processor. In other words, we are dynamically altering the "sensor raw data" before we release the shutter. This is the purest form of digital photography... 

WorkSpace How-to Page...

Last Updated:- 22nd April 2024

Why do we need raw files? The reasons are simply when you think in terms of image data. For example, the Workspace editing window is the same for raw or jpeg files, and we get a simulated Live View image with the Enhanced Raw Format and Workspace.

Olympus created a unique front-to-end solution with the Olympus camera, Enhanced Raw Format, and Workspace. Fuji is the only manufacturer to challenge Olympus or OM-System.

For more about the Enhanced Raw Format or editing in Live View mode - link

This Blog supports BOTH creative photographers and those needing good image quality.

How-to Techniques for Workspace

1. How to speed up your refresh rate for Workspace?
2. How to link your preferred Image Editor in WS
3. How to Personalize Your Exif Data
4. How to apply fast adjustments with Workspace
5. How to save your Editing steps as a batch-processing file
6. How to use Olympus Capture Software
7. How to edit with your Olympus camera in PCRAW mode
8. How to manage your Pen F color and monochrome Profiles
9. How to edit and create videos
10. How to apply the Dark Frame option to reduce Image Noise
11. WorkSpace editing steps - How to step backward and forward?
12. See this quick and easy technique to edit your images...
13. How to sharpen your Olympus images
14.  How to create your editing space for WorkSpace
15. How to adjust your Shadows and Highlights in WorkSpace
16. How to use Tone Curves with WorkSpace
17. How to save your edited image?
18. How to save a PDF copy of the WorkSpace Users Manual?
19. How to activate your camera settings in Workspace.
20. How to use the Color Creator function in WS?
21. A new feature was added to WS with the V1.5 upgrade
22. Which are the "Enhanced" and "Normal" raw options?
23. How to see your Pen F adjustments in Workspace?
24. How to prepare and Export an image for Instagram?
25. How to display and check your autofocus in WS?
26. How to make WorkSpace faster with PCRAW mode?
27. Workspace and the 13" M1 MacBook Pro (16GB memory)
28. How to install the new AI Noise reduction in Workspace.
29. How to edit your Enhanced RAW Files in 2 steps - NEW
30. Which version of Workspace is better? - NEW
31. Workspace Essentials for 2024 - NEW
32. ...

Here are more articles about WorkSpace

- Creative editing with WorkSpace Part 5 - link

- Olympus Pen F color and monochrome profiles with WorkSpace - link

- Guide to Olympus creative color techniques Part 6 - link

- How to create and edit a video with your EM5 II and WorkSpace - link

- WorkSpace is the new Olympus image editor - link

- Olympus Live View and Enhanced Raw Files - link

WorkSpace - How-to Techniques 

1. How to speed up the screen refresh rate for Workspace?

Olympus added a new feature to speed up the screen refresh rate. Click on the button in the illustration below, and Workspace will slightly reduce the display resolution to improve the refresh cycle. Click the button again for a detailed display (image).

2. How to link your preferred Image Editor in WS. 

Many Photographers work with image editors like Photoshop or Luminar. You can link your favorite image editor to the EX button in Workspace. Go to Settings and follow the steps below.

Do your raw conversions in WS and benefit from the Olympus Image Processing and Workspace. Transfer the converted 16-bit Tiff file to Photoshop or Luminar for any additional editing.

- When editing your 16-bit Tiff file in Photoshop:-

1. Change the 16-bit Tiff file to a Smart Object and create a duplicate layer.
2. Select ACR from the Filter menu and open the Tiff file in the PS raw editor.
3. Apply any of the raw adjustments you would apply in the PS raw converter
4. The final step is to continue editing the converted raw file with Photoshop...

3. How to personalize your Exif data

You can personalize your Exif data in the "MY Tab." 

See the steps below:-

- Go to the "Window" menu and click "Show Properties."
- Select and link your preferred Exif data to the MY Tab.

- Select the data field you want in the Exif data, right-click, and select "Add to my Properties."

How to link the "Picture Profile" to the MY tab. Look for color profiles or color-creator settings if you received an image with Exif data (illustration below). This is a good way of checking for Exif data on photos you received from a friend or found on the web.

Another option is to check the images you received or downloaded or hold the mouse over the thumbnail. This will open a new window, like the example below.

4. How to apply fast adjustments with Workspace

Workspace might feel slow, even though it is faster than the older Olympus Viewer 3 editor. The reason is that Workspace first applies new adjustments before going to the next one.

Is it possible to change that? See the steps in the illustration on the left. Select the value you like to change, and you will see an Up/Down window. You can adjust the values one click at a time or click and hold the mouse button for continuous changes.

5. How to save your Editing steps as a batch-processing file

You might work on a new color profile or repeat a specific editing sequence on other images. The solution is to save an Editing Profile as a Batch Processing File. See the illustration below and follow the steps to create a batch-processing file.

- See the steps and the illustration below (illustration below):-

1. Click the "Save Processing Batch file" button.
2. Select the "Save a Batch Processing file" option
3. Select or de-select any settings you like to include
4. Give the profile a name and Save it. (Create/use your own Profile folder)
5. This is a list of profiles or batch-processing files I saved

Repeat the above steps BUT select the "Load a Batch Processing" file option, and apply your profile to the next image.

Your personal profiles are saved or recalled via the "Batch Processing" option in Workspace.

6. How to use Olympus Capture Software

See this video from Peter Forsgard about Olympus Capture.

Here you can find the latest information about Workspace, Olympus Capture, downloads, and the most recent software updates.

7. How to edit with your Olympus camera in PCRAW Mode

The reasons for having this option are speed, Olympus Image Processing, and synchronizing your camera settings with Workspace. See my OM-1 review for more information. Workspace uses the same Editing window for raw files and jpegs files. The disadvantage of converting raw files without the PCRAW option is speed (especially on older PCs). Connect your EM1 II & III or OM-1 via the PCRAW mode. The raw editing window only changes for the EM1 (II & III).

Workspace has two raw conversion windows for the EM1s. The 2nd conversion window activates with the EM1s in PCRAW mode. There are 2 additional options in PCRAW mode. Editing with the camera SD card or with your PC hard disk. The PCRAW editor has fewer options for the EM1s.

Workspace V2 received a new PCRAW editing window for the OM-1. It's not a separate raw conversion window like the EM1s. The OM-1 received full access to the default conversion window in Workspace. This is a significant improvement...

Also, see Tip 27

- How to connect your camera, follow the steps below:

• Connect the camera to your PC with the supplied USB C cable
• Switch the camera ON and select PC-RAW on the camera display
• Open Workspace if not already open
• WS will prompt you to select which files you like to edit (Camera SD card or PC)
• The EM1 II & III have a separate and the OM-1 default editing window.
• You can apply profiles, copy settings, and paste them on multiple files when needed.
• Export the edited file (the file format options change with the camera connected)
• It takes a little practice...

Step 1 - The above schematic shows the Editing window and Step 2 is the window for the EM1s. The main difference is less editing options in step 2. I tested the EM1 II & III. PCRAW does not work for older cameras like the EM5 II or the Pen F.

- Update for the OM-1

Connecting the OM-1 is different. Connect the camera like normal to the PC and select PCRAW on the camera. Instead of activating PCRAW mode like the EM1s, use the PCRAW button in the standard Editing window. The OM-1 has full access to all the "Enhanced" Raw Features. 

The OM-1 is noticeably quicker in PCRAW. It makes WS even more attractive as a RAW converter. It's easier to go between the OM-1 PCRAW mode and the regular editing pallet with Workspace.

I use my baby Macbook Pro (M1 processor). This is my main editing PC for enhanced raw files. I never experienced that Workspace V2 is slower on the M1 Macbook Pro or PCRAW mode. See my article on upgrading my iMac. OM-System corrected this problem with V2.11.

8. How to manage your Pen F color & monochrome profiles  

- This brief description with 4 scenarios:-

1. WorkSpace developed profiles - How to transfer the profile to the Pen F
2. Saving your Pen F configuration/settings on your PC
3. Extracting and saving color or monochrome profiles from JPEG images
4. Creating/using your WorkSpace Profiles with WorkSpace (See Tip 4 above)

I. WorkSpace developed Profiles - How to upload profiles to the Pen F

This article reviews DXO-FilmPack and how to create Pen-F or E-P7 profiles. It also explains the differences between the Pen-F and WorkSpace profiles. These differences also explain why we can't upload Workspace profiles to the Pen-F. That said, the most practical way of adding new profiles to the Pen-F is to manually program them into the Pen-F.

II. Saving your Pen F camera configuration on your PC

It is possible to share your complete Pen F configuration with a friend. If you need to share your Pen-F settings and profiles, connect the Pen-F to your PC and select "Save settings /MySets" from the menu (window below). Another method is to use the "Custom Settings" and "Save" functions from the WorkSpace "Camera" menu. (2nd image).

Transfer the Pen F configuration (file. set) to your PC and save it. Mail the "file. set" file to your friend. The recipient will use "Load" from the "Custom Settings" menu to transfer the Pen-F configuration and profiles to his or her camera.

For more information, see the illustrations below...

Olympus Updater.

Select Option B to transfer the Pen F settings/configuration from the PC to the camera or vice versa. Follow the steps in the illustration below.

If you don't know when to select "Load" or "Save," see the illustration below. You will always see the "direction" of the transfer on the panel to the left in the Update Window, 

III. Extracting and saving a color or monochrome profile from jpeg images

You can share Pen F profiles with a jpeg file. Select a profile, take a photo, and mail it to a friend. You can resize the jpeg in WS or select a smaller file size in the Pen-F.

Open the jpeg in Workspace and select "Export" from the "File" menu. See the illustration below to include the Exif Data.

Follow the steps below to extract a Pen-F Profile from a jpeg file...

Select Option A.

If you discover a Pen-F image on the web and need to verify its profile data, right-click on the image to download it. Open the image in WorkSpace and check the Exif data. See the example below...

It's possible to extract the profile data if you find a color or monochrome profile. Also, see this article with profiles with a similar description (above).

9. How to create videos in WorkSpace?

I prepared a short article on how to record videos with your Olympus and how to edit them in WorkSpace. Included are the instructions to edit and export the final video in WorkSpace.

Read the article in the above link for how to Export the file. The image below has info on how to convert video formats.

See the article (above link) for more information about Workspace and title pages or audio tracks.

10. How to use the Dark Frame function

Olympus improved the noise reduction capability of Workspace. They added new spot removal and dark frame options. Use a second "dark frame" image with higher ISOs. Use the dark frame image with the new function to reduce the noise.

Olympus EM1 II with 50mm f1,4 Leica - ISO6400, f7.1, 1/13Sec - Raw edited in WorkSpace and finished in Photoshop.

Image noise increases with higher sensor temperature. Higher temperatures change the camera's noise floor. The dark frame function is perfect for high-temperature situations.

Put the lens cap on and take a second "dark frame" image. Practice with this function before using it. It's often better to cancel the in-camera noise reduction and to use Workspace and your Enhanced Raw Files. This makes it possible to selectively apply the noise reduction options in WorkSpace. You will have the same results with Workspace and often better as with your camera.

11. WorkSpace Editing History - Step backward/forward

How does one go back one or more steps when editing with WorkSpace? You did a few editing steps in WorkSpace, and you like to go back a few steps. Study the image below:-

- Click on the WorkSpace "History" button,

- A new "History" window will open in WS,

Go one step back and select the Highlights & Shadows by "selecting A" in the above example. Select the "Highlight & Shadow" step to cancel this step and everything below...

Practice this technique, and it will become easy. It's quick to move backward and forward in the editing history window and to cancel or monitor your editing steps.

12. A quick way to edit your images...

Many photographers completely underestimate ART Filters. Photography became a quest for technically perfect images. We need to choose between technically correct and pleasing results.

Also, see my How-To tip No-17 further down...

This technique consists of editing jpegs and showing the advantages:

• This is an easy and quick editing technique...
• It's a repeatable technique or steps to edit your images
• It's quick to develop a unique editing style or look for your images
• Create your own Batch Profile if you are happy with your new editing style

Follow these simple steps to edit your JPEG image with ART filters:-

Step I

- Open an image in WorkSpace and select the ART filter you like to use...

The Pop ART II filter works for bright and energetic colors... Experiment with the different ART filters to find a look that works for you. The ART filters are more flexible in WorkSpace. 

Step 2

Fine-tune the image with the Highlights & shadows function. I used the settings in the image below to remove contrast and lighten the Pop ART II filter for the above intro image...

Experiment with your "curve" adjustments until you find a look that works for the ART filter.

Step 3

The final step is to sharpen the image. I found the settings below work well for my O-MD cameras. You could also use 15 for the threshold and/or 30 for the Amount.

Save your adjustments in a "batch processing" file if you are done and satisfied. Use this batch file or "profile" to edit your future images. You might get away with only your batch "Profile," and people might already recognize your work from your new profile or batch processing file...

See the final image below. I did not use layers for this example...

This image was taken with the EM5 and 14-42mm lens in 2012 - Salt Lake City (USA)

It also works well to use two images, the original and an edited ART profile image. Open both in PS in layers. Experiment with the Blending modes and the opacity slider until you find the right image look. Layers is a powerful editing option and perfect for taming down some ART filters.

13. How to sharpen your Olympus images

The question often is, should I sharpen my images, and when or how much? The secret is to keep any image post-processing or sharpening as little as possible. Olympus jpegs are already good and don't need much sharpening. Never use the sharpening sliders in the camera or WorkSpace. Use the Unsharp Mask filter in WorkSpace. See the image below.

The settings in the above example are safe or enough for most of your Olympus images. This is if the sharpening sliders in the camera or WS were not used. 

Sharpened in WorkSpace (on the right)

14. How do we change the editing space in WorkSpace

How do we change the editing space in WorkSpace? For example, it's possible to always have a "large" version of your image in WS. I prefer smaller files when I edit with my Macbook Pro.

The above image is the typical editing window of Workspace on my Macbook Pro. The WorkSpace window can quickly transform into a new editing space. It is nothing new to change the editing window while editing. See the examples below...

With 2 clicks (see above), the working space (below) is optimized for my laptop...

With 2 clicks, the working space is optimized to compare the edited image with the original image...

Experiment with the different windows, panels, and layouts in Workspace. Getting used to that also makes it difficult to use another image editor.

See the above example for one final option to improve your image editing experience with Workspace. Drag the editing pallet away from its docking position and place it anywhere you like. When done, click the "restore" icon (see arrow), and the editing pallet will return to its docking position...

Also, see  Tip 1 for more about speeding up the screen refresh rate...

15. How to adjust your Shadows and Highlights in WorkSpace

Also, see this article...

16. How to use Tone Curves in WorkSpace

The tone curves or the curves function is one of the most powerful editing functions. We can adjust the highlights, shadows, and mid-tones with the curves function. For example, an S-curve will increase your contrast. See the video links further down.

We can also adjust any of the 3 RGB colors with the curves. The curves function will change the selected and opposite colors. Use the Olympus color creator to find the opposite colors.

Try this quick exercise:-

- Open a raw file with blue or yellow colors (grass) in WorkSpace

- Select the blue on the Color Creator (See example above)

- Adjust the Vividness to -2 or -1

- Select the opposite color in Tone Curves (yellow)

- Move the midpoint of the curve up or down while monitoring the image

- The secret is small steps or adjustments...

For more information, see the videos below:-

• For an explanation of the Tone Curve function, see this - link
• Serge Ramelli is well known for his work - watch this video - link
• A very informative explanation of the Histogram and Tone Curves - link
• Also, see this video from Rob Trek on the Tone Curve function - link

The above videos show why. Layers will benefit WorkSpace. This includes basic layer features for the Pen-F. Mastering layers is one of the most fundamental steps to improve your editing skills...

17. How to save your edited image?

See the diagram below.

The export function has more options. See the Users Manual for more details.

18. How to get a PDF copy of the WorkSpace Users Manual

Install the free copy if you didn't install Adobe Acrobat Reader. To see the PDF version of the Users Manual, follow the steps in the diagram below...

19. How to activate your camera settings in Workspace

See this article and this 2nd article for more on Live View.

We can simulate the camera's last Live View display on your PC in WorkSpace. Opening the raw file in WorkSpace is the same as viewing the raw sensor data. It is possible to see the final camera Live View display in WS when you activate your camera settings in WS. The reason is the unique similarities between the camera and WorkSpace. 

Functions like shadows & highlight, the Color Profile, and the Color Creator will change the camera Live View before you release the shutter. All these camera settings are available in WorkSpace.

This unique feature makes it possible to experiment in WorkSpace and manually transfer the settings to your camera.

Does the WorkSpace Live View feature support jpeg files? 

You need the raw image data to see the final Live View display in WorkSpace. The raw data simulates the image signal coming from the sensor. After activating your camera settings in WorkSpace, you will see the camera Live View display before releasing the shutter. 

Why is this Live View capability not in the User Manuals? 

The WS user manual is a short overview. I assume Olympus wanted to introduce these and other unique color and creative photography features. They probably thought Olympus photographers were not ready after the criticism from "reviewers and forums experts" on DPReview and Mu-43.

Almost all the camera settings are available in the raw file. The challenge is that you only see the "neutral" or unchanged raw file in WS when you open the raw file. Activate the camera settings in WS to see the Live View display in WS.

This is what you see when you open the raw file in WS. The settings are displayed but not activated. You need to select the "Adjust Color" function. See the image on the right on how to activate the camera setting in Workspace.

What makes this step more complex is functions like the Color Creator. You will only see Picture Mode and "Neutral" in WS. Go to "Picture mode" and "Color Creator" to activate them in Workspace.

One can have a quick overview of all the camera settings in Workspace?

Add the Exif data on the left to your "My list" in WS. See the User Manual for details on how to set it up.

One of the craziest examples is:-

- Sharpness

- Saturation

- Contrast

These camera settings are not visible like the Color Profile in WorkSpace because they are treated as "presets." That means you will only see the effect of these camera settings in WS. Activate the ones you used in the camera. To see which ones you used, go to the Exif data...

You will see the camera Live View display in Workspace to evaluate what you did in the camera. The more you practice using the enhanced raw format, the better you will get with the corresponding camera and Workspace features.

For more about WorkSpace and the Live View mode, see this article. 

20. How to use the Color Creator in the camera and WS?

See this short article with examples...

21. A great new feature was added to WS in the V1.5 version

Like Photoshop, move the mouse over the image and identify the colors and tones on the Color Adjust (Profile) tool and the Tone Curves function.

This is great because you can now more accurately select and adjust colors or tones...

22. Which are Enhanced and which are Normal Raw settings?

For more about the Enhanced Raw Format, go here. Learn which settings are unique to the camera and the Enhanced Raw Format and which are Normal Raw settings.

The image below is a copy of the WS Editing tools. I marked the Enhanced Raw File settings "Enhanced" and the Normal Raw settings "Normal."

None of the settings are active when you open the enhanced raw file. What you see is the raw sensor data. You need to "activate" the camera settings before they are active in WorkSpace. For example, select the white balance to activate the camera WB setting. (See below)

The same is true for all the Enhanced Raw settings. Activate the Color Creator if you applied it to your camera and want to see the effect in Workspace.

How does one "activate" these enhanced raw file settings in WorkSpace? See my article explaining Live View and how to work with Enhanced Raw Files. See the illustration below for more information.

23. How to see your Pen-F adjustments in Workspace

Much of my writing is about the Olympus Pen-F and its creative functions. What about other Olympus cameras? One of the versions made it possible to use Pen-F color or MonoChrome Profiles with E-M1 II raw files. More recent versions included most Olympus cameras...

The solution is simple. Open your raw file in WorkSpace and activate the camera settings. Export a 16-bit Tiff copy to your "converted" folder. Edit the Tiff file in WS and apply the Pen F profiles on the Tiff file...

All the Olympus cameras with the ART filter, the Color Creator, or Shadows/Highlights (Curves) functions have the "Enhanced" type raw files. See this article. The only features unique to the Pen-F or the E-P7 (raw format) is the Color and MonoChrome Profiles Functions.

This means if you have a camera like the EM10 II or the EM5 II, then you will edit your enhanced raw files in WS with all the creative freedom of the Pen F. If you like to add a Color Profile, open the 16-bit Tiff file and apply one of your saved profiles.

24. How to prepare and Export an image for Instagram

The steps to prep and export an image for Instagram. See the illustration below:

1. Open and edit the image in Workspace.
2. Crop the image for Instagram (The crop ratio is 4:5 - the dimensions are 1080 x 1350)
3. Export the image (Use 1350 in Step 4 to apply the correct dimensions for Instagram)

25. How to display and check your autofocus in WS?

Olympus added a function to Workspace to show the autofocus point in the image. It is now possible to activate this feature in WorkSpace. You can then check your focus points on the image. This is a great tool to help you improve your autofocus results. The Autofocus On/Off button can be found at the bottom of the Workspace window. See the image below...

Having used this for a few weeks, the AF point is always in the center of the image. My preferred AF mode is (S2/C2/M1). This makes it possible to apply AF, keep the shutter halfway, reframe, and press it. Looking at the AF point in WS, it's always in the center?

26. How to speed up WorkSpace by connecting your EM1s or OM-1?

We can speed up Workspace with the EM1 (II & III) and OM-1 connected to the PC in PCRAW mode. The benefits are significant. I linked my EM1 II to my older iMac and tested the effectiveness of this feature. I then applied the same editing with and without the camera connected. The cycle times are faster in PCRAW mode and up to 30 seconds when not.

See Tip 7 for more information about PCRAW and connecting the OM-1...

What are the main benefits of using the EM1 (II or III) image processor? It helps to reduce the waiting times between the editing steps when trying new techniques, practicing with raw files, creating color or monochrome profiles, and experimenting with ART filters.

This is how to connect the camera:-

1. Open Workspace and open your EM1 II raw folder
2. Connect your EM1 II USB cable to the camera and your PC
3. Switch the camera "ON" and select "PCRAW" on the camera
4. WS will automatically jump to Step 2 (see image below)

This is your Normal Workspace editing screen.

How to return to the connected EM1 II editing window? It's possible to return to the PC Raw editing window if you accidentally "canceled" the "PCRAW" editing window and you are back in the "normal" mode. Select the option in the above image and follow steps 2 and 3.

Here you select the file you like to edit with your EM1 connected.

This is the EM1 II (connected) editing screen.

PCRAW mode is automatically opened when the EM1s or OM-1 is connected in PCRAW mode. The EM1s editing window has fewer options than the normal editing mode. The editing speed improvements are significant. PCRAW mode is ideal with the camera and the WS image processors working together. Transfer the edited raw files to Photoshop and continue your editing in Photoshop...

27. Workspace with the 13" M1 MacBook Pro with 16GB Memory

I started with Windows when I bought my first Desktop PC. I kept my final Windows 7 version for unique cases. I changed to the basic 13" Macbook Pro and a well-specified iMac in 2014. Both these Macs work well with Workspace V1.5. The only problem was I could not use the Graphics Processors with WS. These older Macs also work well with my EM1 II & III in PCRAW mode. OMWS V2 did not work well with these Macs. The new AI Noise Reduction filter did not work on these Macs. 

I have a newer basic Macbook Pro with an M1 processor. I added 16GB to the Macbook Pro. Workspace V2 works with the M1 Macbook Pro. The Graphics Processor connects automatically. I never used the "detailed screen" option (See tip 26) on my older Macs. With the newer M1, this feature is fast to keep it ON while editing with the new M1 Macbook Pro.

28. How to install the new AI Noise reduction filter

Here is a link to the Version 2 upgrade for Workspace and additional information on how to upgrade. If you have an older version of Workspace on your PC and you like to upgrade, go to the Help menu and select the "Upgrade Software" option. It will install the new updater and then version 2. It does take a little while to do all this.

The new AI Noise Reduction filter (App) does not work with older Macs. I installed the V2 version on my newer Macbook Pro M1, and everything was OK.

Workspace will verify if the PC is compatible with the AI Noise Reduction Filter when updating to a newer version. If yes, you will see the message below. (left). You will have no message window when not compatible. Nothing happens if you install it again. The filter is installed if your PC has the correct hardware configuration. The image to the right (below) is what the function looks like in the Workspace editing window.

The AI Filter deactivates when installing the V2 upgrade, and you receive the OK. You need to install it again. Go to the help menu in Workspace V2 and select and download the new AI Noise Reduction filter. When installing the AI filter, you see a message window asking which cameras you like to include. All 3 cameras are automatically selected. Leave the selections as-is and press OK. I removed the OM-1 and then had to re-install the AI filter. It's a complete installation each time...

When done, it's easy to use. Be aware of the following:-

- The AI reduction filter works for the OM-1 and some older models

- It does not have any effect on images recorded at lower than ISO800

- It does not have any effect on Live ND images

- It does not have any effect on images recorded with multi-exposures

- It does not have any effect when using the "Merge Images" option in the camera

I photographed a few variations of a poorly lit scene at ISO12800...

Olympus EM1 III with 12-45mm f4, ISO12800, f5.0, 1/13th - edited with WS and the new AI Noise Reduction filter.

The above image is edited in Workspace( V2), and I used the new AI Noise Reduction filter. The AI filter has a few options and is easy to use. I did not expose for max SNR. I also did nothing else to improve the recorded image data. Study the images on a larger display. The scene was reasonably dark, and the shadows darker (probably 3 stops below neutral gray). You will see the shadow recovery is OK. The reflected information (data) might be too weak.

The same image was edited in PhotoLab 5 with Prime noise removal (I used slightly different colors in PL-5).

The same image was edited in PhotoLab 5 with DeepDive noise removal.

I use PhotoLab 5 on my iMac. When studying the results, you will see Workspace and the new AI filter causes a yellow cast. The Olympus noise filter is excellent for all Olympus cameras. I mostly use the "Low" option. The best way to manage noise is to improve your exposure skills...

Pls speed up WS, do any necessary upgrades, and open the AI filter for older PCs. The PhotoLab 5 AI filter works well on my older Macs. 

This EM1 III image was edited with WS with normal NR - The settings are in the Exif data.

29. How to edit your Enhanced Raw Files in 2 Steps

Most photographers edit their raw files in one session. PhotoLab and Lightroom are good examples of processing raw files in one step. While one session is OK for "standard" scenes, more complex scenes and Workspace benefit from converting and editing raw files in two stages.

See the link to the article...

30. Which version of Workspace is better?

The two versions in question are the older V1,5 and the newer version V2 of Workspace. They are almost identical, except for the AI noise reduction feature in V2. The more frustrating difference is the V2 version is slow on older computers which are doing well with version V1.5.

All Olympus cameras before the EM1 III are OK with V1.5. I kept one of the final V1.5 copies on my older Macbook Pro.

It is not a good idea to upgrade to V2 and to re-install V1.5. The reason is the Workspace database stays on the PC, and the V2 upgrade is not downward compatible...

Personally, I had it with all the software upgrades and reinstalled a previous OS on my older Macbook Pro. This allows me to continue with the software that's working perfectly well. I am even at the point of having only one PC on the web and using my older iMac and Macbook Pro offline...

Update: OMDS updated WS to V2.1.1.1 in January 2023. It works perfectly well will my older iMac 2014. I haven't tried the AI noise reduction feature...

31. Workspace Essentials for 2024