How To Repeat One Process a Bunch of Times, Fast

Dear Debbie,

I use Photoshop CS2. I have to correct contrast, brightness, and color on about twenty photographs that have similar problems. To fix them one after another is a slow process. Can this be done in some fast process that might correct all the photos simultaneously? Please advise.

Sincerely,
In the Slow Lane

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Dear Slowpoke,

You're right, it’s no fun to do the same thing over and over. That's why Photoshop includes Actions. You can record what you do to one photo, then replay your steps to affect lots of photos. Here's how:

Step One: Make an Action.
Open one of the images you want to fix. Then go to Window > Actions to get to your Actions palette. Make a new set by clicking on the New Set button (circled in red). Then create a new Action by clicking the New Action button (circled in blue). I named my new set "Image Corrections," and my new action "Jess's Wedding."

Step Two: Record It.
Recording works like a tape player: when you make a new Action, the Record button is already pushed, so just get started making your corrections.  You'll see them piling up under your new Action. When you're done, hit the Stop button (circled in red).

Step Three:
Batch Process. Go to File > Automate > Batch. Up will pop the Batch window. The top box, Play, is where you select your Action. Choose the Set you made, and the Action you want to take. Then choose your source. It's a good idea to put the images that you want to fix in a single folder before you process.

Next pick a destination. I recommend making a new folder and saving your fixed images there. So select Folder, then choose the one where you want your pics to go. It's also not a bad idea, while you're here, to append the file name so you know those are the ones you changed. When you're ready to go, click OK, and watch as all your fixes are done for you.

Here's a final tip: if you only want to run your Action once, you can press Play to act on the open window.

Hope that helps,
Debbie

Comments

[Imelda]

I've volunteered to archive the family photos and will definately try this. Thanks

[G Sharma]

Dear Debbie,
I have used windows systems along with adobe elements and Adobe CS. How easy will it be for me to switch to Mac and related softwares such as Aperture. In other words, how do you compare these products. I also would like your comments on Nikon capture NX vs Adobe alements.
thanks

[Daian]

I am interested on Aperture vs Photoshop too.