Greetings Pro Community,

Just a quick one really. I have been using IviewMP3... sorry Expression Media 1 for some time now and it has filled my need for a catalog software, as a result my work flow has evolved around my current setup.

1) Catalog Software
2) Raw Processor
3) PS
4) and back to Catalog for keywords and the like.

Now I am upgrading to Win7 and though I have been able to install EM it does not work correctly and I have not spent much time debugging it, but I cant find a SP1 download anywhere for it so the initial version is very buggy.

So now I am on the hunt for my options, either Expression Media 2 full purchase or maybe ACDSee Pro, LR is not an option really as it does not have any batch features that I could find for batch renaming... I did see a way to rename the image but not like I am used to in EM where I can select a text to replace in the name.... like "IMG" can be replaced with my initials for example, easy. So unless I can be enlightened as to LR's potential then I am thinking it is not the go for me.. especially since I already am happy with my RAW conversion.

Does anyone use something other than Expression Media or ACDSee (not LR :)).

Anyone have any opinions about the two and their suitability... I am not really familiar with ACDSee but have downloaded the trial and will tinker around with it later but it now looks as though Win7 will require an upgrade of my software suite so.... I through it out there... If I am going to spend money I want to make sure I am getting the best product that I can find.

Regards

Ron

edit:
Forgot to mention that I do alot of work on the laptop away from my physical photos so need a system which will allow me to edit and sort my catalog for syncing of keywords and metdata when I get home. Looks like Windows update has just found the SP1 for EM so this may not be required.
--
'If there is no conflict - internal or external - there can be no growth.' - Sun Tzu

www.ronhayes.com