How and Why You Should Shoot RAW

Photography Tips

If you’re just starting out in photography, you might have heard of something called RAW. RAW files are really big photo files that professionals use, but many amateurs stay away from–mainly because RAW files are enormous and beginners wouldn’t know what to do with them. This video aims to solve that by offering a really excellent, easy-to-follow approach to RAW imaging:

Why Shoot RAW?

There are a few reasons why professionals choose RAW over smaller file types:

1. Image quality is higher, so you get more detail and flexibility
2. Editing is easier, because you have more data to work with
3. Photos appear brighter, because your photos are more detailed

There are other reasons, too, but these are some of the main advantages.

How Do You Shoot RAW?

If you have a DSLR, it’s easy. The above image is of a Canon 5D, but any camera should clearly state the option if you click Menu -> Quality. One of the options should be “RAW”.

Many cameras also offer the option to take a photo in both RAW and JPEG formats. It’s a good option for beginners who want to see the difference.

How Do You Turn a RAW File Into a JPEG?

Because RAW files can’t be printed or shared online (they’re simply too large), once you’ve completed your edits in Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, you’ll have to export them as JPEGs.

It’s super-easy: just open your file in the application, then click File -> Export. From there you can choose what size you want to export it as (depending on whether it’s for print or web), and you’re good to go.

Join the Debate:

Do you shoot RAW, JPEG, or both? The discussion picked up some speed here on our Facebook