Adventure Everyday Lightroom Mobile Profiles

In short, RAW and JPEG refer to the format in which your images are stored. RAW files capture all the data from your camera sensor and save it for a wide range of adjustment opportunities post processing. JPEG files save a web-optimized and compressed (smaller) file that saves less photo data and provides fewer editing options in post processing.

When we polled our community, we weren’t surprised to be met with controversy. The best argument for shooting in JPEG is that it results in smaller images that are easier to send and share online. The primary case for shooting in RAW is that it allows a photographer far more control over editing an image. While we could pretend like the argument was evenly split, the reality is that the case for shooting in RAW is much stronger, especially for professional photographers. Before delving into the reasons why shooting in RAW is preferred, we’ll first explain why (and when) some photographers choose to shoot in JPEG.

RAW files are, in essence, “digital negatives." This means they capture and preserve all the data from the camera sensor, giving you all the information you need to adjust an image and perfect it in post processing. The term, “get the photo right in-camera” is idealistic, but not always realistic.

As a photographer shooting in variable lighting scenarios, it’s nearly impossible to get every shot right (and consistent) in-camera. When creating a cohesive and gorgeous photo gallery is important, it’s necessary to shoot in RAW.

Benifits of shooting in RAW format:

RAW gives you a wide dynamic range and color tonality, allowing you to make adjustments in editing software without affecting parts of the image that you want to preserve as shot. Below are a few of the benefits of shooting in RAW.

Shooting in RAW Offers Better White Balance: For still photos in a studio or landscape shots outdoors, finding the perfect white balance is not a big hurdle—but for wedding photographers, street photographers, and travel photographers, white balance can be a challenge. Thankfully, white balance can be easily altered in post processing when an image is shot in RAW.RAW Offers More Dynamic Range: When shooting in RAW, details are saved that wouldn’t be visible or retrievable in a JPEG file. Wide dynamic range allows you to salvage details after an image has been taken. For example, you can restore details in the shadows or highlights independently of one another (without risking blow outs, or muddy shadows).RAW allows for non-destructive editing. Editing a RAW file, unlike a JPEG file, is non-destructive. This means that after you edit a photo, you can always retrieve your original file; you can never permanently alter or destroy your photo. With RAW files, you will also maintain your original photo quality, giving you the opportunity to make large photo prints.

JPEGs are smaller compressed files that are optimized for immediate sharing and sending. This file type is ideal for posting on social media or quickly emailing images to a friend. Why? Because JPEGs don’t require special software or advanced sharing programs for processing. In addition, JPEGs are smaller files that take up less room on a memory card, computer, SD card, or other storage device.

Who shoot JPEG format?

Mobile-only Photographers: Many phones store your mobile images as JPEG. For mobile photographers, be they travel photographers or casual hobbyists, JPEG files are most convenient and readily available.

There are now some phone models/apps that offer RAW image storage, but this is a more recent feature.

Bloggers and Social Media Influencers: JPEG files expedite the workflow for people who take photos primarily for the purpose of sharing them online. People who post on a daily basis, or simply want to share images with family and friends appreciate the simplicity of handling JPEG files.

News and Photojournalists: Mastin Labs user and community member, Ragi Boctor made a strong point; “A lot of professional news and photojournalists shoot in JPEG for the speed and convenience of uploading and sending images quickly.” He then drove his point home: “If you get paid to be the first to have the shot, you want to be fast, and the smaller file size and lack of 'major' editing needed in those professions make JPEG the clear choice.” Well said, sir!