RAW files contain unprocessed sensor data from your camera. Unlike JPEGs or PNGs, which are compressed and finalized in-camera, a RAW file gives you maximum editing flexibility — you can adjust exposure, color, white balance, and more without degrading quality.
Each camera brand has its own RAW format (like .CR3, .NEF, .ARW), but they all serve the same purpose.
Why Shoot in RAW?
- Recover highlights and shadows more easily
- Adjust white balance non-destructively
- Retain more detail and dynamic range
Downsides of RAW
- Much larger file sizes than JPEG
- Requires special software to view/edit
- Slower to transfer and share
When to Use RAW
- Portraits, landscapes, or important shots you plan to edit
- When you want maximum quality or creative control
- If you’re printing or archiving images
Tips
- Use RAW+JPEG mode if you're not ready to fully switch
- StorePhotos accepts RAW uploads and can convert or preview them
- Use editing tools like Lightroom, Capture One, or StorePhotos to process RAW files