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Here are some frequently asked questions posed by people not yet familiar with DARKROOM. If you currently own any DARKROOM edition, many training topics, how-to’s, and profitability tips are described in detail in the Tips & Tricks section of this website.
If you find, after reviewing these preliminary answers you still have questions about a DARKROOM purchase feel free to email or call us at 888-271-3445.
 I have a MAC. Can I use DARKROOM?
| We have reasons why DARKROOM was built for a Windows environment. Too many to list here. What we can tell MAC users is that with an Intel chipset and Windows software there are several options for you to configure and use DARKROOM just like everyone else. The Parallels software lets you run Windows right on your MAC (approx. $80) via “virtual machine.” Other possibilities are programs like BootCamp allow you to choose OSx or a Windows operating system on startup. Again, purchase and use these suggestions at your own risk… but remember you can try DARKROOM for free before making any purchase with us, so please, test your options and feel comfortable with your decision. |
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I have (or will be updating to) Windows 7. Will DARKROOM function properly?
Yes. We have been beta-testing all current editions of DARKROOM with Windows 7 and have found no issues whatsoever. Until Windows submits updates, there may be a cosmetic issue here or there, but DARKROOM, itself, will function just fine. That said, if you are connecting DARKROOM to any printer driver, especially a Windows-specific driver, please be sure to update those as needed. We cannot predict which printers or printer manufacturer will be prepared for the migration to Windows 7, but we anticipate very little issue. |
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Does DARKROOM support my camera and/or printer?
We keep an elaborate list of supported cameras and printers that can be found here. As you will see, DARKROOM Professional Edition has been built with the most relevant and popular professional equipment in mind. Furthermore, DARKOOM will import the following file formats, so rest assured, you’re covered:
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All standard image file formats like .tif, .bmp, .jpg, .tga, .psd, and .png |
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.mif (MegaVision raw files) |
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.crw (Canon raw format, also .raw or .tif |
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.nef (Nikon raw format) |
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.dcr (Kodak professional file format) |
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.pcd (Kodak PhotoCD) |
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.pcx (Zsoft) |
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.fpx (Flashpix) |
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.tiff (Kodak proprietary tif) |
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Do I need to purchase camera or printer software too?
Nope. The beauty of DARKROOM is that it saves you money because you will not have to purchase supporting software and drivers from your printer and camera manufacturers. If your hardware is listed here and you own DARKROOM Professional Edition you will not need to buy anything else -- if you so choose. |
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What is the software key? Why can't I download a DARKROOM purchase right now?
Most ExpressDigital products require a software protection key in order to function. The Core and Professional Editions of DARKROOM will load Evaluation Mode if the software key is not connected properly (in a USB slot). Evaluation Mode does not permit printing and functions essentially like Web Edition. When you purchase DARKROOM directly from us or from an authorized dealer, the latest version of the software and the key (also called a “dongle”) will be shipped to you. If you are in a rush, know that most dealers offer overnight shipping.
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What version of DARKROOM do I have?
| Open your software. Click the [ ? ] icon in the top right hand corner. A pop up will tell you at the very top what version of the software you are currently operating. |
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Why should I get an upgrade?
Currently, DARKROOM is operating version 8.91. There are free updates for version 8.8 and 8.9 here (if you currently own that version and you are simply seeking an update). If you are operating a version 8.8 or older, an upgrade to version 8.9 is likely what you are looking for.
For one, if you are operating a version of DARKROOM that is 8.7 or older, you are missing out on a lot of features. So much so, that you need a new software key to operate functions developed in the past four years.
If you are operating a version of DARKROOM that is 8.7 through version 8.8, purchasing an upgrade will allow us to remotely activate your software key so you can download the latest functions.
If you would like to purchase or learn more about a software upgrade
email or call us at 888-271-3445.
Since version 8.8, DARKROOM has built-in these new feature additions:
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Sell prints, products, gifts and digital items online with PhotoReflect.com free Internet storefronts |
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Choice between two industry leading greenscreen tools (for Pro Edition) |
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Download fresh product templates directly through the software with Template Marketplace |
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More tools for advanced and basic custom template creation |
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Online publishing automation so you can continue to work and update online events at the same time |
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Enhanced push-button connectivity to Labtricity Labs within the software |
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Change text and borders in Photo Workshop directly, versus altering the template |
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Join the digital revolution with Digital Delivery and Digital Download features |
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New drivers and built-in configurations for the latest printers and cameras (for Pro Edition) |
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Significantly improved photo enhancement tools including a new “healing” brush (for Pro Edition) |
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Which updates and upgrades do I get for free?
If you are a member of the Anytime Access support plan at the time of a new release launch you are entitled to free version upgrades.
If you have any version of 8.9 you can download a version update for free here.
If you have any version of 8.8 you can:
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Download a version update for free here |
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Purchase a full upgrade to 8.9 for Core at $145 or Pro at $395 by calling 888-271-3445 |
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Purchase a full upgrade with Anytime Access (24/7 call support for 365 days) for Core at $195 or Pro at $495 by calling 888-271-3445
(...p.s. this option is a little known secret and a huge bargain) |
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Do I need support?
We like to think that DARKROOM is intuitive and easy to work with, but we have found the more you do with DARKROOM combined with the less time you have to figure it out on your own, the more you need access to support. DARKROOM is pretty powerful software and your time is money, which is why there are some support options for you to consider before making a DARKROOM purchase.
The most popular option is the Anytime Access Plan which gives subscribers access to a dedicated phone line with DARKROOM experts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for 365 days. Anytime Access also includes free software upgrades — all of which presents a pretty significant value. |
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What are the support plan options?
There are four support options to help you work with any DARKROOM feature and configuration:
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There are online training videos, manuals, tips and tricks published throughout this website that can be found by clicking here |
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ExpressDigital has a free online support center that can be found here — you will need to create a login and password the first time you use it |
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If you call the support center with a technical question on any DARKROOM feature or its functionality with supported hardware, you can pay as you go with a credit card, for $50 a call (the number is 888.508.3443 in the U.S. and 01493 888222 in the U.K.) |
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If you want the ability to contact the support center 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for 365 days we offer the Anytime Access Plan |
Click here to learn more about DARKROOM support plans. |
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Can I see what DARKROOM can do before I purchase?
Certainly. There are three options (to learn more and download them, click here):
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You can download Web Edition, which is always free |
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You can download a trial version of Core Edition |
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You can download a trial version of Pro Edition |
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I downloaded Web edition, now what?
Web Edition will give you basic functionality but won't let you print/fulfill orders locally. You will need to sign-up for Labtricity to fulfill with over 200 qualified and popular labs. In addition, you should sign-up for a free PhotoReflect.com account which will allow you to publish a free Internet storefront (as a free website or you can connect it to your website). If you have both PhotoReflect and Labtricity configured, you can have all of your online orders fulfilled by your Labtricity Labs automatically.
Before you do anything, however, you should set-up the software properly (learn how via video or the Quick Start Manual pdf) to do everything you can do with this edition.
When you are ready to print/fulfill locally, export to a Lab that is not a Labtricity Lab, create your own templates, do advanced editing, create presentations and slideshows and/or use greenscreen, you should consider an upgrade to Core or Pro Editions. |
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| Do I need to set-up DARKROOM in a particular way before I use it? |
I downloaded a trial version of Core and/or Pro Edition but I can't do much.
The trial versions of Core Edition and Pro Edition will not let you import your images. You will be able to check out the limitless opportunities of DARKROOM with the images pre-installed in these trial editions. The reason we did this was so you can see everything you can do and take your time, since there is no time limit to use these downloads.
Web Edition will allow you to import your images, but you will not have any of the additional features offered with a Core Edition or Pro Edition upgrade.
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| Is DARKROOM going to be at any of the upcoming tradeshows? |
Is there someone that can demonstrate DARKROOM near me?
| DARKROOM Dealers are all very well versed in features or functionality. The fact is they are a very select group of companies that we have negotiated specials, trainings and events with. You should review our Dealer List and find the one nearest you. Not only would they be happy to demonstrate DARKROOM for you in person, most will promote an event or workshop that will be of service to you. |
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Do I know anyone that uses DARKROOM?
| A recent Professional Photographers of America (PPA) study indicates that 1 in 3 professional photographers use a version of DARKROOM to solve problems and help them make more money. We cannot list all of our fans here, but we are pretty sure if you ask around you'll already know someone that uses DARKROOM. |
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I am curious about Assembly Edition and/or PhotoMall.
DARKROOM Assembly Edition and DARKROOM PhotoMall are specialty products with very specific objectives and workflows in mind.
Assembly Edition was created for School and Group Photographers that need considerably more workflow flexibility based on the type of event and will allow you to use bar codes, scanners, and auto-print order envelopes and shoot sheets.
PhotoMall was created for, to put it simply, photographers that handle Santa Claus and Easter Bunny events and that require plug-and-print operations (and that's all).
Because of the unique specialty of these DARKROOM products and the support requirements end-users need to use them properly, we do not feature these products prominently on this website. However, if you are still interested, we can assist you in acquiring these products. |
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Do I want Assembly Edition?
If the majority of your work requires a robust software solution that would enable school shoot products, Assembly Edition may be exactly what you are looking for. Assembly Edition includes all the features of Professional Edition PLUS these specialized tools:
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Data synchronization from multiple field computers |
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The ability to import .CSV data with all job information |
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Ability to print order envelopes, slate cards and shoot sheets/stickers |
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Bar code automation for quick data entry |
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Auto-creators of yearbook CD’s and printed
ID cards |
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Ability to sort print jobs by data elements |
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Ability to print school and data sheets on industry standardized forms |
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How do I buy Assembly Edition?
There is a dedicated dealer of Assembly Edition that handles all new purchases, training and support:
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Desktop Darkroom
Toll free: 888.398.9934
www.desktopdarkroom.com |
University Blvd W., Jacksonville, Florida 32217
Direct: 904.398.2540 |
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Do I want PhotoMall?
| It depends. PhotoMall is a very simple and streamlined product designed solely for "mall photographers" (those photographers that shoot Santa Claus and Easter Bunny events). There is a very simple interface that will allow you to configure your camera and printer systems, enable a touchscreen monitor, shoot and sell. There are no "bells and whistles" but it has proven to be very successful. DARKROOM Professional Edition has the same capabilities along with considerably more tools and features for photographers that offer more products and services. |
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How do I buy PhotoMall?
There is a dedicated dealer of PhotoMall that handles all new purchases, training and support:
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imageTech
Phone: 714.639.5411 |
10388 S. Randall St., Orange, CA 92869
www.imagetech.us |
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