Expert: LizaL - 10/7/2005

Question
hi, again, lisa. (liza?)  i don't know what's up with my p/s. i have been using batch processing for some time, and now i have a problem: when i start it i get a small window which says, "file already exists in the target location". i get the same **&!? window on
EVERY image! the neat part is that the target folder is empty. ? you don't have to help me, i can always open a vein. thanks for the help on the last one. sincerely, boyd.

Answer
Hey Boyd,

Hmmm... I did several searches using a bunch o'different criteria, based on your dilemma, and can't find any definitive fixes, although some people do seem to have a similar problem. But I did find some decent links you might want to explore, that all have to do with Actions and Batching and all that jazz.

First things first, though -- it sounds like somehow that particular action has been cached in your computer's memory, and Photoshop just won't give it up. Sad to say, this is pure speculation on my part, as I've never had this happen to me.

I know these things are going to sound too simple, but  1. try trashing the destination folder altogether and creating a new one, with a totally different name, and possibly a different path.  

2. try quitting Photoshop   

3. go one better and restart your machine.

If those things don't work, we might start to assume it's your Photoshop installation.

As mentioned, I've found some links to similar problems, although I don't think any one of them actually provides an answer! But here's what I've found, and I'd suggest you explore the individual sites.

1. http://www.sportsshooter.com/message_display.html?tid=17156
In the last post the guy talks about what you're getting, but I don't see the solution.

2. http://www.computer-darkroom.com/ps8_browser/fb_2.htm
This guy talks about using the File Browser, but he also addresses Batch rename.

3. http://www.graphic-design.com/Photoshop/Tips/faq.html
This is just a good, all-round Photoshop info site.

So... if nothing here seems to meet your need and fix your problem, and you've tried the simple route of trashing the destination folder, and restarting both program and machine, you might try deleting your Photoshop preferences.

BTW -- what platform are you using? This will determine how you trash your prefs, of course.

And the final solution? Trash and reinstall Photoshop. If that doesn't work, well, don't open a vein, but possibly be prepared to buy a new computer.

HA! No, seriously, dabble with what I've suggested and holler if you're still having problems. I've got to put myself on hiatus here at this site (I'm swamped in real life), but you have my email addy.

Lisa