When shooting, photographers typically have two format options: JPG or RAW. The main difference between them is that RAW stores all the information captured by the camera sensor, whereas JPG is already processed and compressed.
What is RAW?
RAW is a format that stores:
- The number of pixels in the image.
- The color space.
- White balance and exposure settings.
All of these parameters can be adjusted after the shoot using special programs (RAW converters). This offers greater flexibility in editing, allowing you to modify exposure, color temperature, and work with a color depth of 12 bits or more.
How is JPG different?
In contrast, JPG locks in settings such as color temperature, exposure, and color space at the time of capture. While JPG can be edited, it’s much less flexible. Additionally, JPG is limited to 8 bits per channel, which imposes some limitations on image quality.
Advantages of RAW
RAW preserves the maximum amount of color and detail, allowing you to:
- Work more flexibly with color correction.
- Apply different color profiles, whether from the camera or from programs like Adobe Camera Raw.
Why is Neutral Color Important?
When working with RAW, it’s essential to keep the image as neutral as possible, especially if you plan to apply a LUT (Look-Up Table) for color correction. LUTs can heavily influence colors, and if the image is oversaturated or distorted, the results may be unpredictable.
Example of Working with RAW and LUT
Let’s take an example. We have a portrait processed through a RAW converter.
In one version, I maintained the natural skin tones, while in the other, I adjusted the color temperature to make the image warmer.
Then, I applied the same LUT through the Retouch4me Color Match plugin.
- In the image with natural skin tones, the LUT created a harmonious blend of cool and warm tones.
- In the warmer image, the yellow tones conflicted with the LUT, leading to oversaturation.
Drawbacks of RAW
Despite its advantages, RAW has some drawbacks:
- Large file sizes, which demand more storage space and memory.
- Requires post-processing: Specialized software and skills are needed to fully reveal the potential of RAW files.
- Conversion required: To publish or share the images online, you’ll need to convert RAW files into JPG format.
When to Use RAW vs JPG?
- RAW is better suited for challenging shooting conditions or when you want to retain as much information as possible for later editing. If you’re not in a rush and have ample storage, RAW is your best bet.
- JPG is ideal for fast-paced shoots, where speed in sharing files is critical, and the shooting conditions are predictable. It’s easier to use and quicker for sharing results.
Many cameras allow you to shoot in both formats simultaneously, which is convenient when you need to quickly show results or share photos via Bluetooth.