Photoshop Photography and scripting
While photographers tend to feel that each image deserves individual attention to ensure the best result possible, all too often, time is wasted on repetitive tasks that could easily be automated through batch processes on a large number of images. Automation can greatly reduce the time and tedium associated with repetitive tasks.
The basic process requires that you complete a specific task or series of tasks on a target image. Your computer records all of your mouse movements, clicks, and keystrokes so that they can be "played back" and applied to any image you work with in the future. You can run the action on a file (or group of files) at any time.
You can automate many routine tasks using simple text files that are recorded macro-style. Whether it's converting an image for the Web or making a color photo into a black and white image, you can reduce hundreds of Photoshop steps to the click of a single button. Actions are one of the most powerful features in Photoshop's tool chest. And if you aren't using actions, then you aren't taking advantage of Photoshop's potential.
Photoshop actions can greatly reduce the "fiddle factor" you face when working with digital images. It's possible to essentially automate all of the important digital darkroom functions that you apply to every image. If you want to spend more time behind the camera than you do in Photoshop, actions will help you achieve that goal.
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