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Why RAW is Better Than JPG: A Photographer's Insight

Writer's picture: Janusz MiarkaJanusz Miarka

Updated: Jan 22

When it comes to digital photography, the choice between RAW and JPG can define the quality and creative freedom of your final images. While JPG files offer convenience, RAW files open the door to professional-level control and precision. Let’s explore why shooting in RAW can elevate your photography.


1. Maximum Image Quality

RAW files capture all the data from your camera’s sensor, preserving the full range of detail, colour, and tone. Unlike JPGs, which compress the data to reduce file size, RAW files maintain the integrity of your image. This means that even the finest textures and subtle gradients are protected from compression losses.



RAW from camera
RAW from camera

JPG from camera
JPG from camera

2. Enhanced Editing Flexibility

Post-processing is where a photo comes to life, and RAW files provide an unparalleled range of editing possibilities. You can recover shadow details, adjust blown-out highlights, and correct the white balance without degrading the image. JPGs, on the other hand, offer far less flexibility—edits can quickly lead to reduced quality and unwanted artefacts.

Think of a dramatic sunset photo—RAW allows you to fine-tune the hues of gold, purple, and crimson without introducing noise or distortion.


3. Non-Destructive Workflow

Working with RAW files is akin to using a film negative—you can experiment freely, knowing you can always revert to the original file. When you edit and save a JPG, you overwrite the file, losing the original data permanently. A RAW file, however, remains untouched while your adjustments are saved as separate instructions.


4. Superior Dynamic Range and Colour Depth

RAW files capture a broader dynamic range, meaning they preserve more detail in the darkest shadows and brightest highlights. Additionally, they store more bits of colour information—typically 12 to 14 bits compared to JPG’s 8 bits. This results in millions more colour possibilities, allowing for smoother gradients and richer tones, especially in high-contrast scenes.



Edited RAW
Edited RAW

Edited JPG
Edited JPG

5. The Professional Standard

For professional photographers, shooting in RAW is the norm. Whether you’re creating fine-art prints, working on a commercial project, or documenting real-life events, RAW ensures your work meets the high standards expected by clients, galleries, and publications.


What About File Size?

Yes, RAW files are larger than JPGs. However, with modern storage solutions and cloud backups, this is no longer a significant drawback. The trade-off is well worth it—you get higher-quality images with greater creative control.


Make the Switch to RAW

If you’re ready to take your photography to the next level, consider switching to RAW. The creative freedom and image quality you’ll gain far outweigh the larger file sizes.

Discover more photography tips and stories behind my work in Visual Narratives—where every frame tells a story.


 

👉 Explore my latest projects and insights here


 

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