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Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Benefit of RAW Photography


If someone were to ask you if you shoot your pictures on RAW setting or JPEG and your first thought is "what in the world is RAW setting?" then this post is for you!
The following is a quick comparison of JPEG and RAW files:
JPEG
1. Takes up less file space by compressing the picture.
2. Easier to view on your computer.
3. Easier for posting on the internet.

RAW
1. Does not compress the file, therefore you don’t loose any data from your picture.
2. Images can be fixed in a way that would be very difficult without the data that the RAW file makes available.
3. The biggest advantage of shooting raw is that you have a 16 bit image to work with opposed to a JPG file that only has 8 bit space. This is specifically useful when trying to edit shadows in a picture.

In the end why should you use RAW format for your pictures? Think of it this way, a picture taken in RAW setting is like unprocessed film. It gives you more flexibility and creative options. While pictures taken as JPEG are equivalent to the prints developed from the film, they are nice pictures but you are limited in your ability to edit them. RAW files you can correct mistakes after taking the picture, JPEG you are very restricted in editing your photo.
Quick Note: Not all digital cameras are able to photograph in RAW format, you will have to check the setting on your camera to see if you will be able to shoot with RAW setting.

2 comments:

cgroom said...

wow, I didn't realize they had that much of a difference

Ethan Childs said...

sweet action