FixFile
File Format

RAW (.raw)

Unprocessed sensor data directly from a camera. Contains full dynamic range and colour information before any in-camera processing — the digital equivalent of a film negative.

Extension
.raw
MIME Type
image/x-raw

Last updated

Overview

RAW is not a single file format but a family of proprietary formats produced by digital cameras that store unprocessed image sensor data. Unlike JPG, a RAW file contains the raw electrical readings from the camera sensor before any in-camera processing — no white balance, noise reduction, sharpening, or colour correction has been applied. Each camera manufacturer uses a different RAW format: Canon uses CR2/CR3, Nikon uses NEF, Sony uses ARW, and Adobe's DNG (Digital Negative) is an open standard.

Shooting in RAW gives photographers complete control over exposure, white balance, and colour grading in post-processing. A correctly exposed RAW file retains detail in highlights and shadows that would be permanently lost if shot as JPG. The trade-off is file sizes typically 10–30 MB per image (vs 3–8 MB for JPG) and the requirement for RAW-capable editing software.

Common Uses

  • Professional and enthusiast photography — any situation where maximum post-processing latitude is needed
  • Wedding, portrait, and event photography — exposure recovery in underlit or high-contrast scenes
  • HDR and composite work — bracketed exposures in RAW preserve detail across extreme dynamic ranges
  • Commercial photography — colour-critical work requiring precise post-processing control

Advantages

  • Maximum dynamic range — typically 12–14 stops of recoverable tonal information vs 8 stops for JPG
  • Non-destructive editing — all adjustments are stored separately; the original data is never overwritten
  • White balance flexibility — change white balance in post without any quality loss
  • Full colour depth — 12–14 bit colour depth vs 8 bits for JPG, enabling smoother gradients

Limitations

  • Large file sizes — 10–30 MB per image fills memory cards and storage drives quickly
  • Requires RAW processing software — cannot be viewed in basic image viewers without conversion
  • Proprietary formats — Canon CR3, Nikon NEF, Sony ARW require manufacturer support that may be discontinued
  • Slower workflow — RAW files must be processed and exported before printing or uploading

Supported Software

  • Adobe: Lightroom Classic, Lightroom CC, Camera Raw (Photoshop plugin), Bridge
  • Free: Darktable (cross-platform), RawTherapee (cross-platform), GIMP with UFRaw
  • Manufacturer: Canon DPP, Nikon Capture NX-D, Sony Imaging Edge
  • Standard: Adobe DNG Converter (converts any RAW to open DNG format)

Tools for RAW files