RAW vs. JPEG: Why I Prefer RAW and How I Use Both
If you’ve ever heard photographers talk about shooting “RAW” or “JPEG” and wondered what on earth that means, you’re not alone. These are two of the most common image file formats in photography, and while both have their place, they’re very different in how they capture and store your images.
I personally prefer to shoot RAW because it gives me the most creative control in editing and ensures the highest possible quality in your final images. But that doesn’t mean JPEG is “wrong.” In fact, there are situations where JPEG is the smarter choice. Let’s break it down.
What Is a RAW File?
A RAW file is exactly what it sounds like: raw, unprocessed data straight from the camera’s sensor. It’s like a digital negative. The camera records everything it sees without compressing or adjusting it.
Advantages of RAW:
Maximum Image Data: Keeps all the details in highlights and shadows.
Better Editing Flexibility: I can make precise adjustments to exposure, color, contrast, and more without degrading the image quality.
Custom Look: My editing style truly shines with RAW because I have full control over every element of the photo.
Drawbacks of RAW:
Bigger Files: RAW files are large and take up more storage.
Requires Editing: They aren’t ready to use straight out of the camera. They need to be processed in programs like Adobe Lightroom.
Not Universal: You can’t easily open them without specific software.
What Is a JPEG?
A JPEG file is processed in-camera and compressed before it’s saved. The camera applies adjustments for color, contrast, and sharpening automatically, then discards some of the image data to keep the file size small.
Advantages of JPEG:
Smaller File Size: Easier to store and faster to send.
Ready to Use: Images are processed in-camera and look “finished” right away.
Good for High-Volume Shooting: Perfect for situations where you need a lot of images quickly without heavy post-processing.
Drawbacks of JPEG:
Less Editing Flexibility: Limited ability to recover blown highlights or dark shadows.
Compression Loss: Some image data is permanently lost during compression.
Preset Look: The in-camera processing applies a fixed style you can’t undo.
Why I Prefer RAW
For my work, shooting in RAW is the clear choice. I want the maximum amount of image data so I can fully control how the final image looks. Editing is where my style lives, from adjusting each individual color tone to perfecting the contrast, texture, and overall feel of the image.
With RAW, I’m working with all the ingredients. With JPEG, I’m starting with a pre-made dish that can only be seasoned, not re-cooked.
When JPEG Can Make Sense
While RAW is my go-to, there are situations where JPEG is a smart option:
Sports or Wildlife Photography: High burst rates and smaller files mean you can shoot more quickly without filling memory cards.
Event Coverage with Immediate Delivery: When images need to be shared in real-time (news, social media updates, etc.).
Photographers Who Don’t Edit Heavily: Some photographers have a style that is simple and straightforward (a lot of studio work for example).
How I Use Both RAW and JPEG
My camera (a Canon R6) has two SD card slots, and I use them to capture both formats at the same time. RAW on one card, JPEG on the other.
Here’s why:
Better Previews for Clients: Sometimes people really want to peek at the back of the camera during a session. The JPEG version gives a more polished preview than a flat-looking RAW file, which makes for a better client experience in the moment.
Faster Shooting Speed: Writing two RAW files at once would slow down my camera’s burst rate. Having JPEG on the second card keeps things running quickly.
Backup Security: Technology is never 100% foolproof. If something were to happen to the RAW card, I’d still have JPEGs… and I know my clients would rather have those than none at all.
The trade-off is that JPEG gives me less stylistic control in editing, but in rare emergencies it’s worth it. Over the years, I’ve only had to rely on JPEGs for a handful of images, but I’m prepared if the time comes. And two cards are always better than one!
Why Your Final Photos Are JPEGs
Even though I shoot in RAW for the highest quality and maximum editing flexibility, your final delivered images are JPEGs. This surprises some clients, but there’s a good reason for it:
Universal Compatibility: JPEG works everywhere — you can open, print, and share them without special software.
Finished Artwork: By the time I export, every adjustment has been made. The extra RAW data has already been used in editing, so the JPEG is the polished, final product.
Manageable File Size: JPEG keeps quality high while making the files small enough to store, share, and download easily.
Think of it like this: RAW is my “working file,” full of possibility. JPEG is the beautifully finished print you take home.
The Bottom Line
RAW and JPEG are simply different tools for different jobs. I choose RAW because it allows me to deliver images with the highest quality and the most attention to detail… exactly the reason my clients hire me. But that doesn’t mean JPEG is bad, it’s just better suited for other types of work or shooting styles.
At the end of the day, the format matters less than the vision, skill, and creativity behind the camera.