Hi Robert,
I'm not sure how that comes out with attached pictures, but here is one straight from the camera and again after auto sharpening and auto contrast in Picasa. I think it clearly makes a difference and I am surprised how well the auto function works, but then again I only see it on a 10" screen ATM... I also took pics with the Canon TV 25/1.4 and 13/1.5 today and especially the 25mm - while really easy to handle and generally sharp - benefits from a contrast boost. With the Switar 75/19 the difference before and after was the smallest - I like that lens more and more every day...
I know that some of you perform magic with their talent and skills - while an after taking the shots - but I am just getting back into this and want to work on the picture taking first, on PP later. After all, I enjoy taking pictures because it takes me away from the computer for some time... So, if Picasa or PS Elements produce reasonable pictures with minimal effort, I am fine for now. Next step is learning to deal with RAW format...
Stefan