Does LowSearch works with Channel Images?
I have purchased LowSearch and try to play with it.
What I want to search or filter is either the "Category" , "Custom Field" or "IPTC keywords" in the Channel Image Field.
Doesn't find a clue how to do it, so, I want to ask is is that possible? Please advice.
Thanks!
Replies
Low 25 Mar 2014 07:36
Low Search doesn't specifically support Channel Images, but if CI places its searchable fields in the native exp_channel_data table, then Low Search can search its data.
I'm not familiar with CI myself, so you'd have to verify this with DevDemon or check yourself.
SamuelKwong 25 Mar 2014 16:57
Thanks, your support is definitely clearer and better than CI's. I have been in contact with them , but eventually, I spend hours studying the source code, and see if there's function which fits my project requirement, which turns out is no..
Anyways, for your information, hope it will help you or someone are considering Lowsearch and CI.
CI saves data into exp_channel_data but thats only limit to "File name", "Title" , "Description" and "Custom Field 1-5". Not all the image information like "size", "IPTC" , "Exif", which are saving in "exp_channel_images" table.
All, those "File name", "Title" , "Description" and "Custom Field 1-5", we will have to manually input the data while we upload the photos. It leaves just a blank text field, so, in my case, I will have to enter all IPTC keywords into their Custom Field for all my photos. I personally think this function is not very useful.
And on top of that, those data saved in "exp_channel_data". They are based on the channel entries. Say for example, I do have a filename to search with and it does exist in "exp_channel_data" table. It will return me the "Channel Entry", which in most of the case it contain a list of images, but a particular image with that filename.
So, again, I think it is not quite usable with this feature.
Lastly, about the IPTC, Exif, in the "exp_channel_images". They are base64_encodeed array in a single cell, IPTC cell, exif cell, so on...
So, I think for LowSearch, I am not you won't be able to search an base64_encodeed array record cell.
So, I think Low Search does not fits my project requirement this time.
But luckily, I am getting another project, which might have exact match use of Low Search, which is a property agent website, so, I think that $65 will not be a waste or have to apply for a refund.
Thanks!