Working on a laptop - Opinions on colour please

[Loopy]

As the title implies, I have to use a laptop for almost everything I do. However, after viewing my previous post on another computer I think that I'm getting a false impression of the colours in my pictures (and the sharpness)

The following is a selection of pictures from the last couple of days. They're straight out of the camera, with the exception of a bit of straightening.

Can I have your opinions on the colours in the images please as I think that they look a bit flat and uninspiring on my screen. I have been inclined to boost the contract and saturation a touch on my pictures, but now I'm thinking that I might have killed any previous pics.

Also, do they look a bit soft?

I'm not really after any critique on composition etc, as most these were just the produce of a walk around the quayside (record shots really), but feel free to do so if you want.

I think that I'm going to have to invest in a screen to plug into, so any suggestions with regards to that would be appreciated too. What should I be looking for when deciding which to buy?

Thanks for looking.
L

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

 

[dellipher]

Is any of the monitors your looking from calibrated? Because this could be why your seeing almost a different colour representation on the images.
The "softness" you describe could be what they are uploaded to [some web based photo things [cannot think of word] can occasionally make them look softer]

I use a lappy for all my work.

 

[Loopy]

Anybody? Have I asked a really stupid question, in which case

I haven't had my laptop screen calibrated. Is it worth it as depending on the angle that you look at it the contrast of the image changes. I try to look at it almost straight on.

TBH, I wouldn't have a clue where to start with calibration. I know that there are threads re. this so I'll do a search and have a look at those.

 

[mastertrinity]

to calibrate a monitor you buy a special little gadget that you install on your comp and it sticks to your screen and calibrates so you get the right colours other than that i dont see anything wrong with your pics, i particuarly like number 3.

 

[Cranky]

I've been thinking the same thing fella as I only have my cheapo laptop to go by and i'm unsure what to class as correct,

Maybe you should take a picture then post up the original with auto adjustments and another copy with the adjustments you believe looks good on your screen.

 

[Loopy]

Good Idea.

Here are 3. Which do you has the best colours?

1. Straight out of the camera

2. Using Auto Adjust in Vista

3. My adjustments. Touch of brightness, contrast and saturation

 

[dellipher]

On my monitor i prefer the 3rd, the stone is a touch on the warm side, which would work with the colour of the sky etc.