When it comes to moving photos from a digital camera to my computer, I've always embraced the simple approach: take the storage card from the camera, put it in one of the computer's card reader slots and drag the files to a directory on its hard drive. If a camera includes a program for uploading to a computer, I usually ignore it. Nevertheless, Martin Brinn makes an interesting case for injecting software into your photo transfer workflow.



In arguing the merits of transfer programs, Brinn touts an application called RoboImport ($29.95). The software does automate some useful tasks. Here are some of them.

• Images can be imported to folders with descriptive names.
• Photos are renamed with detailed information such as picture date and time, as well as camera model.
• Pics are rotated automatically and in a way that won't degrade the image.
• Snaps captured in a proprietary RAW format can be automatically converted into standard DNG files.
• Photos can be automatically copyrighted.
• Automatic backups can be performed.
• GPS info can be added to photos.
• Image resolution is automatically corrected for printing.
• If you're dissatisfied with the results of a transfer, you can automatically roll them back.

RoboImport is designed with the professional photographer in mind, but for amateurs whose modus operandi is to fill a memory card before they do a photo dump, it can be a worthwhile investment.