Problems opening Elements 8 RAW converter

[Andy81]

I've just started using Elements 8 to edit photos, and am slowly learning with the Elements 'missing manual' reference book. However, one area I'm having a problem with is opening RAW files. The book suggests that simply opening a file will open the RAW converter, however when I try this, it opens just like a JPEG image ie into the normal editor workspace.

My images are in Sony RAW format (.ARW), however I've also tried opening .DNG files with the same effect.

If anyone has any advice, I'd be grateful!

Andy

[JohnHallett]

Have you got Lightroom on your PC as well?

[Andy81]

No, just the Elements 8 package. The software is able to open the RAW files without any problems, but doesn't open the converter, and I don't think I can do this manually.

[JohnHallett]

Hmmm..... as a first step I can only suggest that you go to Adobe's site and download the latest version of the ACR plug-in.

[El_Sid]

If it is definitely RAW files you are opening then clearly Elements can read them.

What does the window they open in look like? Do you get an area to the right, either in the image window or in the main window, with a histogram at the top and a bunch of slider marked with things like Exposure, Recovery, Fill Light etc.?

Also take a look at your preferences settings (Edit>Preferences) and see if there is an option for Camera RAW settings - have a look for some sort of automatic conversion option and see if it's set to on.

[Andy81]

I'm not getting the RAW converter ie the histogram and various sliders when I open a RAW file. The photo opens in a seperate window within the editing space. Other than that, there is no change to the editing space - ie the standard panels still appear on the right.

I've also tried the latest plug in, without any success.

I've contacted Adobe about this, so will see what they suggest, though any suggestions in the meantime are welcome.

[velocette]

I use Elements 6 and all my RAW's open OK automatically in the RAW window, but. If yours don't try this. Open any file to get to the edit window, once there click file, open as, (third option down in E6). When the pop up menu box appears select the file you want to open and from the bottom drop down menu select Camera RAW. In E6 it's the third line down. A bit long winded I know but it should work and also enables you to edit any file, TIFF, jpeg etc using the RAW editor. Good luck.

[Andy81]

Thanks to those who provided suggestions. After a wek of exchanging emails with customer support at Adobe, it turned out to be the screen resolution being too low.

Anyway, problem sorted!