The RAW file format is digital photography's equivalent of a negative in film photography: it contains untouched, "raw" pixel information straight from the digital camera's sensor. The RAW file format has yet to undergo demosaicing, and so it contains just one red, green, or blue value at each pixel location. Digital cameras normally "develop" this RAW file by converting it into a full color JPEG or TIFF image file, and then store the converted file in your memory card. Digital cameras have to make several interpretive decisions when they develop a RAW file, and so the RAW file format offers you more control over how the final JPEG or TIFF image is generated. This section aims to illustrate the technical advantages of RAW files, and makes suggestions about when to use the RAW file format.
Having a sound knowledge of file formats is essential for digital photography and image manipulation/editing. This article explores the different file formats involved in taking the photographs, their pro's and cons, as well correct use of file formats in a digital workflow. The last section concerns the best file formats for printing, the web, and sharing with friends & family.
RAW files are the true digital negatives!
The better SLR (Single Lens Reflex) camera systems can save photos to a memory card in a format unique to that make and model of camera. These are called RAW files.
What is the difference between JPEG and RAW files?
In past times, photographs would be captured onto light sensitive film. Then, after development in the darkroom, a negative would be produced. With digital photography, images are stored as a digital file. For viewing, the file is decoded – and there are 3 main types of file used – JPEG, TIFF and RAW.
Detailed video on Medium/large format photography. Video goes over different types of medium/large format cameras and which is best. Camera in the video is a Mamiya RB67.