How can I maintain image quality?

[echodark]

Not sure if this is the best place to post this question, but I hope someone can help me with the best way to maintain image quality and reduce the file size from the original bitmap produced when I hit the "V" key in FSX. I've converting the bitmap file into a jpeg file using PhotoShop, but I am very disappointed with the way image quality degrades from what I see on my high-def monitor. I've tweaked everything using the nVidia Inspector application and run a fairly powerful machine, so that everything looks beautiful on the monitor.

I've noticed that when I open on of the bitmap files, there is a noticeable "rastering" on straight edges that is not evident on screen. That effect is even more apparent after converting to jpeg files with PhotoShop so reduce the size of the file to a more reasonable size for e-mail, posting online, etc.

Am I doing something wrong? Or is there a better method for capturing a good quality image of my flying activities so I can share with others?

[aircav1970]

I'm running into the same problem,what I see on my monitor is definetly degraded after converting to .jpeg.Ive tried both PSE and MSPaint to do the conversions and both of them loose clarity and "crispness" after saving. I've tried using "Fraps" to capture also thinking that it may have been a problem with the standard FSX "V" capture but it didn't make any difference either.If you discover anything that helps,please post your findings here.:)

[rsoro01]

Don't think you are doing anything wrong per se, if the BMP is already of less "quality than what you see in the sim. I have a similar issue in that the BMPs are less vibrant and less defined than what I see in the sim. I "solve" my issue in Photoshop through Smart Sharpening which also tends to add a bit more contrast in the process.

If you are resizing the images in Photoshop (as opposed to merely converting to JPG) make sure that you have the "best for reducing" setting selected. That does make a difference.

EDIT: Forgot to note that JPGs by their very nature will not be as crisp as BMPs because of data compression, anyway. They are not lossless. In Photoshop set the quality as close to "12" as possible for the file size you want.


Rich

[fscabral]

I use snapper. Very nice program to capture anything showing in your desktop. You can set the quality as well in %. But you will need to have or photoshop or any othe program to edit your shots.
Please do not use paintbrush, it destroy all the pixels and your image wont have any quality.
:)

[GermanPilot]

I'm using the usual Windows Photoview program, which is pre-installed.
It should be the same quality.
Also IrfanView is a good program.

[lifejogger]

I reduce my bmp files so they are 1200x750 and then when I convert them to jpg I make sure I use the lowest compression possible to make sure the screen shot sizes are between 190kb & 195kb.