My first impression of Photo Mechanic is favorable, but I'm so new to the software I need some assistance to get over a couple of key hurdles. I'm using the 30 day evaluation Photo Mechanics Plus on Mac to determine if it would work for me.
1. My primary purpose is metadata key wording, both entry and searching. I can't determine whether the base version or the plus version is required. Does the base version have the same searching capabilities as the plus version? I like the ease and speed in fast browsing with keywords. This is for my home use, so the ease is important if other family members need to browse a life's worth of photos. Bridge still could be an option if I created a large list of smart collections.
2. I've used structured keywords across my photo library. I have been using Bridge and have exported my keyword file. After making several attempts I haven't figured out how to import a keyword file from Bridge. Apparently I need detailed instructions as I've read folks are able to do this, but have been unsuccessful. I've gone to the structured keyword keyword panel, then tried copy and paste in a keyword list. I really am at a loss here. I was able to save those key words from the note pad screen, but not able to load them into the structure. Perhaps it's a limitation of the evaluation version. Please help here as this is a showstopper for me.
3. I a bit concerned about the talk of licensing changing. I appreciate the cost of software development because that was my business and life for many years so I am willing to pay reasonable costs. I would go with a subscription, but it has to be not more than Adobe, which I left for that reason. Perpetual might be an option, but the operating system updates are so frequent, the prospect of purchasing a new version often is a concern. Those with history of Photo Mechanic might have a perspective on what kinds of OS updates have been problematic requiring a software update. Perpetual license at $320 is a quite a bit over the top if it would be required every year. Thoughts on licensing?
4. Software support is critical as we never know when the hardware and/or operating system becomes obsolete and is updated. Photo Mechanic has been around for a long time, since the name is familiar from my long term use of photography software. Is there a long term plan of succession for the company? I've seen so many businesses leave exit when their original owner decides to retire. It might not be a huge issue, because stored information looks to be done per well established standards.
