[Qgis-developer] Freeze dynamic labels in advanced labeling

[Larry Shaffer]

Hi,

I'm working on a fairly detailed map for print output at a known scale
(1:24000 @ 300 dpi, 1.2 m x 2.4 m). I'm using the new label engine,
and manually adjusting many of the labels for x/y and rotation. Labels
are in map units, with parallel-to-line feature layout.

Is there a means to have PAL layout the labels, then do something to
freeze (write) *all* labels' x/y coords to the data source?

Currently, I have to manually move a label to have its coords written.
If there was a method to freeze all the labels' coords for a given
layer, it would be a LOT faster to pan around at the print output
scale and visually check for collisions to manually adjust, since
those labels would no longer dynamically move relative to the viewport
extent.

I'd be interested in hearing about any workarounds or a reasonable
approach for adding the feature to the source, or if I'm totally
missing something here. I envision the freeze feature as an action
attached to a new icon on the labeling toolbar, since it is already
limited as to when it becomes enabled (when there is a properly set up
data source).

Regards,

Larry Shaffer
Dakota Cartography
Black Hills, South Dakota