The age old debate, RAW VS JPEG. It shouldn't be a debate, as there is a place for both.
Shooting RAW vs JPEG is a decision that just about everyone who takes pictures faces at some point. There are very strong opinions about which is better but, that is the wrong way to think about it. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so let’s go over those to see which is right for your application.
Simple Definition of RAW and JPEG
Take a look at the subtle differences from the top photo to the bottom. The top is jpeg, without editing, the bottom RAW. You can just get those details that get lost in a JPEG when you edit a RAW image.
JPEG
JPEG files are processed right within the camera. They are the camera manufactures ideal settings for contrast, brightness, noise reduction, sharpening, color settings, and many other in camera settings. These files are finished and can be viewed, printed and shared immediately after the shot. JPEG files are compressed and much smaller in size, as it is a “loss” file format. This means that much of the initial image information and detail is discarded and cannot be recovered. Dynamic Range detail, which is simply the amount of tonal range detail from the darkest shadows to the brightest highlights, in JPEG files is significantly reduced when compared to RAW.
RAW
RAW files are unprocessed snapshots of all the detail available to the camera sensor. Because RAW files are unprocessed, they come out looking flat and dark compared to a jpeg. RAW images need to be processed on a computer with editing software from your camera, or third-party software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Aperture, (see links below) or others prior to being able to share, print or display the photos. Because the files are uncompressed they are much larger than their JPEG counterparts, so they take up more space and make most features in your camera slower.
An Easy Way to Think of It.
One way I like to think of RAW and JPEG is by comparing it to food. Let’s face it, most things make sense to me when they fulfill my hunger.
You have full control over RAW, but JPEG is fast and convenient.
Let’s say you have a raw piece of tenderloin steak sitting in front of you. At this point you have full control over how you want to cook the tenderloin. You can choose it rare, pan fried, what spices to throw on it, barbecue, marinated, and the list of options goes on. Cooking your steak you are able to get it done perfectly and just the way you liked it, with a little practice, but it took time out of your day to accomplish. This would be the same as a RAW format in your camera. The product you see in front of you is not exceptionally appetizing, but with some work, it will be delicious and just the way you want it.
Now let’s picture that you are meeting your friends at a restaurant and you are running late. You tell them you want a tenderloin steak, but you don’t tell them how you want it done. You get to the restaurant and you like it medium rare, but it’s medium, you like pan seared, but it’s grilled. You try the steak, and overall, it’s pretty good. You sit at the table and it’s ready for you to eat, and you can enjoy your time with your friends. This is JPEG, ready to use and convenient, but not always as good as it could have been.
As you are beginning to see, JPEG is much more convenient and allows you to take more pictures, which is great in some situations, where as RAW might be more for photos that take time and patience. I have broken it down into specific situations where I think you might want one over the other.
Although you have full control over RAW, you need a program such as lightroom to achieve good results.
5 Situations Where RAW is Better
Portraits, inconsistent lighting, street photography, landscapes, tripod work (zoom lenses), and artistic product shots.
5 Situations Where JPEG is Better
Sports or action, nature, social media sharing, candid shots, camera burst modes.
My Recommendation.
As you can see, there are clearly applications where one works better than the other. Cameras when you buy them by default, shoot in JPEG format, and usually in the highest quality possible. If you are thinking about getting into shooting RAW, then I suggest you start slowly. In your image size settings, you will find a setting that is RAW + JPEG. This allows you to get the instant access of your in-camera processing, but allows you to take out the RAW file into an editor and practice putting your own touch on the images. This will take up considerable space on your memory card, but is the safest and easiest way to get into RAW photography. The only time I would not recommend this, is shooting in 4-10 frames per second burst modes. All cameras use a buffer to process the images in the background, and this setting will not allow you to go near as fast. If you are looking for an inexpensive software that is very comprehensive, check out these links from my Amazon Affiliate page.
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