Two common file types used in digital photography. RAW files are uncompressed and contain more information than JPEG files, but require more processing. JPEG files are compressed, take up less space, and are easier to share.
Image file formats: Describes the differences between RAW and JPEG file formats, including their advantages and disadvantages.
Compression: Discusses how the two formats handle image compression, and how this affects image quality.
Image quality: Explains the factors that affect the quality of digital images, such as color depth and resolution, and how these are affected by the format used.
Color spaces: Explains the differences in color spaces used by RAW and JPEG formats, and how these affect image processing and editing.
Dynamic range: Discusses the differences in dynamic range between RAW and JPEG formats, and how this affects the ability to make adjustments in post-processing.
Editing capabilities: Discusses the differences in the editing capabilities of RAW and JPEG formats, including how much latitude you have for adjustments.
Workflow: Describes the differences in workflows between RAW and JPEG formats, and how this affects how you shoot and process your images.
Storage: Discusses the storage requirements for RAW and JPEG formats, and how this affects your overall image management strategy.
Software compatibility: Describes the software tools and applications available for working with RAW and JPEG files, and how these may affect your image editing workflow.
Processing time: Compares the processing times required for RAW and JPEG files, and how this can impact your image editing workflow.
CR2 (Canon Raw Version 2): This is a RAW file format used by Canon cameras, which creates uncompressed image files with high-quality images.
NEF (Nikon Electronic Format): This is a Nikon RAW format that produces an uncompressed digital negative file, which can be opened by various image editing software applications.
DNG (Digital Negative): Developed by Adobe Systems, it is an open-source RAW image format intended to provide a uniform method of storing images. It is compatible with a range of software programs and hardware devices.
ARW (Sony Raw Format): A RAW format used by Sony cameras that stores image data in uncompressed form, allowing for maximum image quality.
ORF (Olympus Raw Format): A proprietary RAW image format developed by Olympus for their cameras.
Baseline JPEG: This is the original JPEG format, which uses a simple algorithm to compress the image. It is supported by a range of software applications and hardware devices.
Progressive JPEG: This JPEG format is similar to baseline JPEG but is designed to display the image gradually. The initial version appears pixelated, but gradually improves in quality as more data is loaded.
Lossless JPEG: This is a less common JPEG format that retains all the data from the original image, but with more efficient compression algorithms than the baseline JPEG.
JPEG 2000: An updated and more efficient version of the original JPEG format, which is designed to support more advanced features such as transparency and alpha channels.