Continuing in the spirit of "simplicity", I recently came across a program which seems to yield great results, and very much simplifies my workflow. It is called "DxO Optics". I'm not sure how well known it is, but if you haven't seen it in action, I would strongly recommend trying out the demo version.
The "proof" for me came when I re-processed the "Rosebud" shot. Apart from correcting the lens distortion, this also pulled out more details in the light and shadow areas, and the overall result seemed to have a higher quality in colour tone and level of detail.
My six most recent shots (at time of writing) were all single exposures processed in DxO Optics, then finished off in Photoshop. I was very impressed with the results, even though I actually spent a good bit less time in overall post-processing.
Well worth a look at the demo version: DxO Optics
[link].
I can see with some of the HDR, where the contrast gets a bit lost. I'm not too sure what the problem is with these latest ones - yes OK, there are a couple which are maybe a little oversaturated for some tastes. I will keep an eye on that.
Perhaps the issue is with some of the "film effects" I've been applying. I am still experimenting with these, but it's not like I just apply them randomly
Anyway, I do appreciate your feedback, and am always open to modifying my workflow, hopefully to make it better. If I can identify the problem, I'll look into fixing it.
DxO in RAW-processing use not only the processor of PC but the GPU of graphics_card and use 90-95% of computer resources when processing the series of shots and so... If U have powerful graphics_card (and processor) - U have more stability and speed of DxO...
Also DxO very "sensitive" to hardware and for ex. I have notebook + 2 PC and only on ONE PC it works VERY effective and stable ... try it on BASE computer and only that buy it for THIS computer...
sorry for my English
S/
Fortunately I upgraded my PC a few months ago, to something pretty high spec (Core i7), so it runs really well... still takes a few seconds to do the final processing. I'd imagine on a PC which is a few years old, it could be a bit sluggish. But I think it would be worth the wait on the processing.
I also got the FilmPack, which produces some great effects.